Short answer: In a small bathroom, a walk in shower with clear glass, a wall mounted or narrow vanity, large format tiles, good lighting, a mirror cabinet and recessed shelves all make the room feel bigger and work better. Keeping the toilet and drain in place keeps costs down.
Small bathrooms are common in older homes, apartments and hallway baths. With smart choices, even a tight space can feel open and work well. These small bathroom remodel ideas focus on space, light and storage.
Make the shower feel bigger
- Replace a tub with a walk in shower if another tub exists in the home
- Use clear glass instead of a shower curtain to open up the view
- Consider a curbless shower for a seamless floor
- Add a recessed niche for shampoo instead of a hanging caddy
- Carry the same tile from the floor into the shower
Save floor space
- A wall mounted or floating vanity shows more floor
- A narrow depth vanity or corner sink for very tight rooms
- A pocket or barn style door where a swinging door gets in the way
- A compact or wall hung toilet where plumbing allows
Use light and color
- Light colors on walls and tile
- Large format tiles with fewer grout lines
- A large mirror, or a mirror cabinet that adds storage
- Layered lighting: overhead, vanity lights and a light in the shower
- A window or skylight kept clear for daylight
Add storage without clutter
- Recessed medicine cabinets
- Shelves above the toilet
- Drawers instead of doors in the vanity
- Hooks on the back of the door
- Built in niches in walls between studs
Updates that make a big difference for less
- New paint in a light color
- A new vanity top and faucet
- Modern lighting over the mirror
- A larger mirror or mirror cabinet
- New towel bars, hooks and shelves
- Regrouting or recaulking the shower
If the shower and floor are in good shape, these smaller updates can refresh a small bathroom without a full remodel.
Do not skip the essentials
- A quiet exhaust fan vented outside, sized for the room
- Proper waterproofing behind tile
- A pressure balanced shower valve
- Blocking in the walls for future grab bars
Read about bathroom remodeling, walk in showers and tub to shower conversion.
Quick answers: small bathroom remodel ideas
How can I make a small bathroom look bigger?
Use a clear glass shower, a floating vanity, light colors, large tiles, good lighting and a large mirror.
Should I replace my tub with a shower in a small bathroom?
Often, if the home has another tub. A walk in shower opens up space and is easier to use.
What is the best vanity for a small bathroom?
A wall mounted, narrow depth or corner vanity that leaves more floor visible.
How long does a small bathroom remodel take?
Often a few weeks, depending on the scope, materials and whether plumbing moves.
Who remodels bathrooms?
A bathroom remodeling contractor. Sifixit can connect you with a local remodeler.
Related
This guide covered small bathroom remodel ideas. For more background, see the FTC’s advice on hiring a contractor and avoiding home improvement scams, and if you need help, Sifixit can connect you with a local provider.
This guide is general information for homeowners, not professional, insurance or safety advice for your situation.
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