Small Bathroom Layout Design Ideas

You have more options than you might realize when designing a small bathroom. Although small bathrooms offer limited space, you can still find ways to add your style without compromising the functional side of a bathroom or exposing your space to potential mold growth. 

We are passionate about blending function and aesthetics into your spaces at Caesarstone. With our small bathroom design ideas and recommendations, you can create a small bathroom layout that exudes comfort and a theme that accurately matches your vision. 

Small Bathroom Layout Ideas

Most construction and interior design professionals refer to a small bathroom as one measuring between 35 and 40 square feet. Powder rooms or half-baths are much smaller as they only have a toilet and sink. Because of the limited space, you want to maximize every piece you add. This means small decor pieces and prioritizing items that serve a purpose in your bathroom. 

Small Bathroom Design: Renovations and Placement

If your project covers the full renovation of your bathroom, you can redesign your bathroom’s layout. This can allow you to replace outdated fixtures and upgrade to lighting and plumbing fixtures that fit your theme. Here are a few space-saving options. 

Wall-Mounted Toilets

A wall-mounted toilet takes up less space. Replacing a traditional toilet fixture can reduce the visual clutter and give you the feeling of more space. Additionally, a wall-mounted toilet makes it easier to clean the floor. 

Floating Vanities

Give your bathroom the illusion of more space by reducing the items fixed on the floor. Aside from your wall-mounted toilet, consider installing a wall-mounted vanity. This gives you storage space for toiletries or cleaning supplies. If you don’t need the storage space, you can go for a more compact vanity large enough for your sink and some countertop space. 

Corner Sinks

Another compact option is to place the sink on one of the corners of your bathroom. Corners are often under-utilized in bathrooms. However, given the limited space in small bathrooms, you should maximize all your available space rather than creating a cluttered counter that reduces bathroom space. If you place the sink opposite your bathroom door, you can also develop a sense of privacy for the toilet and bath in case someone barges in. 

Pocket Doors

A traditional swinging door can take up a significant chunk of the available space as you need to keep the area clear to open the door. Consider installing a pocket or sliding door if a conventional door results in awkward maneuvering. This reduces the need for space for inward-opening doors. 

Vertical Storage Solutions

If the horizontal space is limited, consider vertical storage solutions that take advantage of the overhead space. This can consist of wall-mounted overhead cabinets, shelves, and tall cabinets. Opt for recessed storage solutions and take advantage of the potential shelves recessed into walls. 

Small Powder Room Ideas

Powder rooms are smaller than the average small bathroom because of a lack of showers or bathtubs. These ideas can help make your bathroom more stylish, spacious, and comfortable. 

Stick to a Theme

Pick a theme and stick with it. This can range from a particular accent, styles like minimalism or naturalism, or choosing a focal point and working around it. This can separate well-designed small bathrooms that feel intentional and functional from bathrooms that don’t have a particular theme. If your home has an overall aesthetic, continue that theme in your bathroom. 

Accent Strips

Include a decorative strip to demonstrate the purposeful design of your compact powder room. Use a strip of contrasting tile that runs across all surfaces of the room, including the floor, ceiling, and walls. This strip is typically aligned with the sink to create a cohesive look.

Mirror, Mirror On The Wall

Did you know that mirrors can do much more than show your reflection? They can make your room look more spacious! Interior designers often use mirrors to create the illusion of a bigger space. You can even make it look like you have an extra window by placing a mirror opposite to an actual window. 

A large mirror covering most of a horizontal surface can make your room appear twice as big as it is. Try incorporating a mirror or two into your decor and see the difference it makes.

Lighting is Key

When planning the design of your interior space, it’s important to keep lighting in mind. For powder rooms, wall-mounted fixtures on either side of the vanity mirror work well and greatly use the room’s limited space. For a compact room like a powder room, smaller decorative fixtures would be perfect. 

Small Bathroom Tile Ideas

You can use various tile arrangements to create a bigger space in your small bathroom. Check out these timeless small bathroom tile concepts for inspiration.

Go Big (But Not Too Big) with Your Tiles

Using large patterned tiles can make your bathroom feel more spacious. However, keep in mind that you don’t want the tiles to be too large, as this might make the pattern get cut off at the corners and could have the opposite effect. Find the right balance and get tiles large enough to create a tiled effect in your bathroom.

Small Modern Bathroom Materials

When it comes to designing your bathroom, the materials you choose can make a big difference. If you have a smaller bathroom, you might be aware that it is more prone to mold due to less space for humidity to disperse. It’s best to avoid using porous countertop materials like wood or granite, as they can worsen the problem.

Instead, you can opt for quartz countertops, which are nonporous and easy to maintain. This is especially useful for small modern bathrooms. Plus, quartz is considered a premium countertop material, which can add a touch of elegance to your bathroom.

In addition to functionality, it’s also important to consider your home’s resale value. So, choosing quality materials for your bathroom is a good idea.

Another excellent material to consider for your small bathroom design is glass. To make the most of natural light, it’s best to avoid cutting off its flow as much as possible. Replace your shower curtains with a compact glass bath enclosure, and opt for frosted glass for additional privacy.

Small Bathroom Designs with a Shower: Maximizing Space

Unless you really need a bathtub, a shower is perfect for your small bathroom. Showers use less floor space and allow you to create flexible designs for storage and other bathroom fixtures.

Small Bathroom Ideas with a Tub

If you really need a bathtub, there are some ways to install one in a small bathroom. Consider renovating to add recessed storage space for your toiletries and cleaning supplies, including a recessed spot close to your bathtub for soap, shampoo, and other things you need for a bath. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that you have some small bathroom layout recommendations, here are frequently asked questions about designing bathrooms.

How Do You Design a Small Bathroom Layout?

If you want to try out different colors and surfaces, check out our 3D visualizer. However, when it comes to the actual layout of your bathroom and where to place various components, we recommend consulting with an interior designer. They can provide valuable insights into what is and isn’t possible.

What Is the Cost of Remodeling a Small Bathroom?

It ultimately depends on your location and what you want done to your bathroom. Architectural Digest claims that the average cost of a bathroom remodeling project is almost $11,000. However, expect your costs to be lower for a smaller bathroom or if you have minimal changes. It’s best to discuss costs with your contractor and interior designer. 

What Tiles Are Best for a Small Bathroom?

It’s advisable to use tiles that are big enough but not too big so that the pattern does not cut off at corners.

Choose Caesarstone For Your Bathroom Countertops 

Small bathroom layout design ideas maximize your limited space to create functional, stylish, and comfortable sanctuaries. By incorporating clever planning and design, you can maximize your bathroom’s functionality while introducing aesthetically pleasing elements.

 When it comes to your bathroom countertops, Caesarstone’s quartz surfaces provide superior durability and sublime visual appeal. Browse our catalog to find pieces that fit your theme and order your sample kit to see our products’ quality in person.