Small Bathroom? Here's how to make it look bigger.

Small Bathroom? Here’s How to Make It Look Bigger

A small bathroom can feel cramped and limiting, but with the right design choices, you can create the illusion of a larger, more open space. At Blackner Construction, we specialize in bathroom remodeling, and we know how to transform even the smallest bathrooms into stylish, functional retreats. If you’re dealing with a compact bathroom, here are some expert tips to help make it look and feel more spacious.

1. Use Light Colors for Walls and Tiles

Light colors are your best friend when it comes to visually expanding a small space. Shades of white, soft grays, beiges, and pastels reflect more light, making the room feel airy and open. Dark colors, on the other hand, tend to absorb light and make spaces feel smaller.

Consider using large, light-colored tiles on the walls and floor. A continuous color scheme without too many visual breaks creates a seamless look that tricks the eye into perceiving a bigger space.

2. Maximize Natural and Artificial Light

Good lighting is essential in a small bathroom. If possible, maximize natural light by using sheer window treatments or frosted glass for privacy while still allowing light to flow in.

For artificial lighting, layered lighting works best. Use bright overhead lighting combined with sconces or LED mirrors to eliminate shadows. Recessed lighting can also be a great option, as it doesn’t take up any visual space and provides an even distribution of light.

3. Choose a Floating Vanity

A floating vanity creates more visible floor space, which instantly makes a bathroom feel larger. The open area beneath the vanity gives the illusion of extra room and allows for easier cleaning.

If storage is a concern, opt for a floating vanity with built-in drawers or shelves. Light-colored or glossy finishes can further enhance the feeling of openness.

4. Go for a Glass Shower Enclosure

Shower curtains or opaque doors create a visual barrier that cuts off part of the room. Instead, opt for a clear glass shower enclosure. This allows the eye to travel across the entire space without interruption, making the bathroom appear larger.

For an even sleeker look, consider a curbless, walk-in shower with a continuous floor tile. This design eliminates unnecessary separations and creates a more expansive feel.

5. Use Large Mirrors

A large mirror can significantly impact the perceived size of a small bathroom. Mirrors reflect light and create depth, giving the illusion of a much bigger space.

A great option is a wall-to-wall mirror above the vanity, or even a mirrored cabinet that provides storage while enhancing the sense of openness.

6. Opt for Minimalist Fixtures and Storage Solutions

Clutter makes any space feel smaller. Keep the design simple and opt for sleek, space-saving fixtures. Wall-mounted faucets, slim-profile toilets, and compact sinks free up room and contribute to a more open aesthetic.

For storage, recessed shelving in the shower or walls helps avoid bulky cabinets. Built-in niches or floating shelves allow for storage without making the room feel overcrowded.

7. Choose Large-Format Tiles

Using large tiles instead of small mosaic patterns can make a small bathroom feel more spacious. Fewer grout lines create a more seamless, less cluttered look. Whether on the floor or walls, large-format tiles help reduce visual fragmentation, making the room appear more expansive.

Additionally, laying tiles in a horizontal pattern can create the illusion of width, while vertical tile placement can add height to a low-ceiling bathroom.

8. Keep It Simple and Cohesive

Too many patterns, textures, or bold colors can make a small bathroom feel busy and chaotic. Stick to a clean, cohesive design with one or two complementary materials and colors. A monochromatic color palette works well, as it minimizes visual clutter.

If you want to add character, opt for subtle texture variations—such as a soft veined marble tile or a herringbone pattern in a neutral shade—rather than contrasting bold elements.

9. Install Pocket or Sliding Doors

Traditional hinged doors take up valuable floor space when they swing open. A pocket door or sliding barn-style door eliminates that problem by freeing up room for other design elements. If a pocket door isn’t feasible, consider reversing the door swing direction to open outward rather than into the bathroom.

10. Keep Decorations to a Minimum

While décor is important, too many accessories can make a small space feel cluttered. Stick to functional decorations, such as stylish soap dispensers, a small plant, or neatly arranged towels.

If you want to add artwork, opt for a single large piece rather than multiple small ones to avoid visual clutter.

Ready to Transform Your Small Bathroom?

At Blackner Construction, we specialize in designing and remodeling bathrooms of all sizes. Whether you need a complete renovation or just a few strategic upgrades, our expert team can help you create a bathroom that feels open, stylish, and functional.