Small Bathroom Redo
Small bathroom redo can be a daunting but extremely gratifying project. These rooms are usually neglected when it comes to home remodeling projects, but with some creativity and the right mindset, you can redesign your small bathroom into a functional and beautiful oasis. No matter whether you’re updating a powder bath, guest bathroom, or master suite en suite, there are a number of tactics you can use to optimize space, enhance function, and make a pleasant-looking retreat. Follow along with this step-by-step guide to get through your bathroom remodel.
Determine Your Current Layout
Before making any design choices, you need to assess your current layout. Measure the room, including where plumbing fixtures are positioned, how much wall space you have, and where doors and windows are located. This will help you understand what can be changed and what may need to remain in place because of structural or budget reasons.
Think about how you occupy the space on a daily basis and what changes would make it more functional. Do you require additional storage? Is there a requirement for improved lighting? Or perhaps the current fixtures and finishes are old and require updating.
Maximize Storage with Smart Solutions
One of the main issues with small bathrooms is there is no place to put things. But don’t worry, with some planning ahead, you can think creatively about adding storage without giving up style.
Floating Vanities – A floating vanity is an ideal choice for tight spaces. Raising the vanity from the floor gives the appearance of openness and also provides more storage space beneath it. Floating vanities make the bathroom less crowded and feel roomier too. Opt for modern, clean-lined designs that match your style.
Wall-Mounted Shelving – Take advantage of vertical space by mounting shelves or cabinets above the toilet or beside the mirror. This can be an excellent spot for storing toiletries, towels, and decorative items without using floor space.
Recessed Shelves and Niches – Rather than large cabinets or shelving units, think about putting in recessed shelves or niches in the walls. These are great for bath product storage or achieving a spa feel with decorative items. They use no extra space, so they’re ideal for small bathrooms.
Multi-Functional Fixtures – Search for multi-purpose furniture, like an ottoman that can also serve as a laundry hamper or a shower bench with storage.
Use Light Colors to Open Up the Space
Color is the key to making a tiny bathroom appear larger. Dark colors, though sophisticated and dramatic, can make an extremely small area feel smaller still. For a better illusion of space, choose light, airy colors that bounce light and create the illusion of extra space.
Soft Whites, Pastels, and Neutrals – White is a timeless option that will make a small bathroom look and feel bright and clean. Soft pastels, like pale lavender or mint green, can also introduce a little color without overloading the senses. Neutral colors like light gray, beige, or off-white are also excellent for making the area feel airy and inviting.
Accent Walls and Tiles – To introduce some personality without overwhelming the space, try an accent wall in tile or paint. Subway tile in white or light gray can provide a classic and clean appearance. For a contemporary look, you can use patterned tiles on one feature wall or in the shower area to introduce some style without overwhelming the space.
Install Space-Saving Fixtures
The fixtures that you install can make or break a small bathroom remodel. Using compact and space-saving designs ensures the space will feel comfortable without being congested. Here are some of them:
Compact Toilets – If you have a small bathroom, think about installing a compact toilet with a reduced profile. These toilets occupy less space while still serving the same purpose. There are also wall-hung models that are available, which further optimize floor space and create a contemporary look.
Corner Sinks – If your bathroom is really small, a corner sink can release floor space and enhance flow. Seek out chic, streamlined corner sink models that match your bathroom’s style.
Shower-Tub Combos or Frameless Showers – In tight spaces, a tub and shower combo can be a great solution to help make the most of the room. If you don’t mind a shower-only area, use a frameless glass shower door to produce a more open, fluid appearance that doesn’t actually divide the space visually.
Upgrade Lighting
In a small bathroom redo, lighting truly makes a difference. Dim lighting can make the space dark and unwelcoming. To lighten up the space, try layering your lighting with a mix of task, ambient, and accent lights.
Task Lighting – Place sconces to either side of the mirror for effective task lighting, perfect for grooming and putting on makeup. If wall space is scarce, a minimalist overhead light will serve the purpose equally well.
Ambient Lighting – Recess lighting in the ceiling or a bright overhead light will provide overall illumination for the room. Opt for energy-saving LED bulbs for bright, reliable light without overheating the room.
Accent Lighting – Consider incorporating accent lighting, such as LED strips around your mirror, or a soft light near your shelves. This can add a touch of elegance and warmth to the room, especially in the evening.
Incorporate Mirrors
Mirrors are a necessity in every small bathroom redo, but in a compact room, they have an even greater function. Mirrors can open up the room visually, reflect light throughout the room, and offer a fashionable point of focus.
Full-Length Mirrors – If you’ve got the space on the wall, place a large mirror to reflect even more light and give the room the impression that it is double its size.
Mirrored Accessories or Furniture – To carry on the reflective idea, include mirrored storage furniture or accessories such as trays or towel racks. These items will add a sense of luxury to the space without using up extra floor space.
Decorative Accents
After the necessities are covered, it’s time to introduce the finishing elements that make your small bathroom redo feel like a genuine sanctuary.
Textiles – Soft towels, a stylish shower curtain, or a print rug can be used to inject some color and texture into the space. Select materials that are not only attractive but functional as well, such as drying towels and a mildew-resistant shower curtain.
Artwork and Plants – Little framed art prints or pictures can add to the room without overdoing it. As an added bonus, including a small potted plant can introduce life and a splash of color to the room. Look for plants that do well in the humidity of a bathroom, like ferns or pothos.
Hardware Updates – Updating your cabinet hardware, faucet, or showerhead to have clean, contemporary finishes can totally revamp the appearance of your bathroom.
A small bathroom redo is a thrilling chance to add style and functionality to an area that too often finds itself ignored. If you concentrate on optimizing storage, choosing light color schemes, picking space-efficient fixtures, and adding lighting, you will be able to optimize every square inch. Throw in some decorative touches to add warmth and personality, and your small bathroom redo can be a stunning, tranquil oasis that expresses your personal style and way of life.