A small bathroom doesn’t have to feel cramped or cluttered. With the right design choices, you can transform even the tiniest bathroom into a stylish, functional, and comfortable space. The key is to maximize every inch, incorporating smart storage, space-saving fixtures, and light-enhancing design elements to create a bathroom that feels bigger and more luxurious than it actually is.

As a University of California graduate with a degree in interior design, and the owner of a successful home renovation company in California for eight years, I’ve worked with homeowners who wanted to update their small bathrooms without sacrificing functionality or aesthetics. Through my work with USA Shower and Bath, I’ve helped clients make the most of their limited space—without breaking the bank.

If you’re ready to remodel your small bathroom, here are some of my favorite makeover ideas to help you create a space that feels open, airy, and stylish.

1. Choose Light and Neutral Colors

Color plays a huge role in how spacious or cramped a bathroom feels. Lighter colors reflect more light, making a small space feel more open and inviting.

Best Color Choices for Small Bathrooms

• Soft whites and creams – These create a clean, fresh look.
• Light gray or beige – Neutral tones keep the space modern and calming.
• Pastel blues and greens – Adds a hint of color while maintaining an airy feel.

If you love bold colors, incorporate them through accessories, towels, or decorative elements rather than using them on the walls or large surfaces.

2. Install a Walk-In Shower Instead of a Bathtub

A traditional bathtub takes up a lot of space, and unless you regularly take baths, replacing it with a walk-in shower can free up room and create a more modern, streamlined look.

Space-Saving Shower Features

• Frameless glass shower doors – These create a seamless, open feel.
• Curbless or low-threshold showers – Makes the space look larger and is great for accessibility.
• Built-in shower niches – Provides storage without cluttering the space with shelves.

If removing the bathtub isn’t an option, consider a smaller soaking tub or a tub-shower combo for versatility.

3. Use Floating Vanities and Wall-Mounted Fixtures

Traditional vanities and bulky storage units can make a small bathroom feel crowded. Opting for floating vanities and wall-mounted fixtures can make a world of difference.

Why Floating Vanities Work Well in Small Bathrooms

• Creates the illusion of more floor space, making the room feel bigger.
• Allows for additional under-sink storage, such as baskets or open shelving.
• Gives a modern, sleek aesthetic while keeping things functional.

Pairing a floating vanity with a wall-mounted toilet can create an even cleaner, more streamlined appearance.

4. Maximize Vertical Storage

When floor space is limited, the best way to add storage is by going vertical.

Clever Vertical Storage Solutions

• Tall, narrow shelving units – Perfect for holding extra towels and toiletries.
• Recessed wall shelves – Adds storage without taking up valuable space.
• Over-the-toilet cabinets – A great way to utilize wasted space.

Using open shelves with decorative baskets can keep storage both functional and visually appealing.

5. Use Large Mirrors to Create the Illusion of Space

A large mirror can make a small bathroom feel twice its size by reflecting light and creating depth.

Mirror Ideas for Small Bathrooms

• Oversized frameless mirrors – Give the illusion of a bigger room.
• Backlit mirrors – Provide additional lighting while keeping the space sleek.
• Mirrored cabinets – Combine storage with a reflective surface for a double benefit.

Placing mirrors opposite a window or light source can enhance their space-expanding effect.

6. Opt for Pocket or Barn Doors Instead of Swinging Doors

A standard swinging door takes up precious space, making a bathroom feel even more cramped. Switching to a pocket door or a sliding barn door can free up room while adding a stylish touch.

Benefits of Pocket and Barn Doors

• Eliminates the need for door swing clearance.
• Maximizes usable floor space for storage or fixtures.
• Adds a modern or rustic design element to your bathroom.

If a pocket door isn’t possible, consider a bi-fold door as another space-saving alternative.

7. Use Large Tiles for a Seamless Look

Many people assume that smaller tiles work better in small bathrooms, but in reality, large-format tiles create a more seamless, open look.

Why Large Tiles Work Well in Small Bathrooms

• Fewer grout lines make the space look less busy.
• Creates the illusion of a larger, continuous surface.
• Easier to clean and maintain compared to small tiles.

If you want a classic tile look, opt for subway tiles in a vertical or stacked pattern rather than the traditional staggered layout, as it makes walls appear taller.

8. Invest in Smart Lighting

Good lighting can transform the way a small bathroom looks and feels. Layering different types of lighting helps create the right balance of brightness and ambiance.

Best Lighting Options for Small Bathrooms

• Recessed ceiling lights – Provide even illumination without taking up space.
• Wall-mounted sconces – Ideal for adding soft, diffused lighting.
• Under-vanity LED strips – Adds a luxurious touch while providing practical lighting.

Using cool white or daylight bulbs can make the space feel fresher and more inviting.

Final Thoughts: Small Bathroom, Big Impact

A small bathroom doesn’t have to feel restrictive. With the right design choices, space-saving fixtures, and smart storage solutions, you can create a stylish and functional space that looks and feels much larger.

If you’re planning a bathroom makeover, focus on light colors, floating vanities, large mirrors, and efficient storage to maximize every inch.

Start Your Small Bathroom Remodel Today

If you’re ready to upgrade your small bathroom with a modern, space-maximizing design, I can help. At USA Shower and Bath, we specialize in custom bathroom renovations that balance style and practicality.

Get a free quote today and transform your small bathroom into a space that feels bigger, brighter, and more beautiful.

About the Author

Taylor Jones is a University of California graduate with a degree in interior design. As a writer and editor for USA Shower and Bath and the owner of a successful home renovation company in California for eight years, Taylor specializes in bathroom design, accessible home modifications, and luxury bathtub installations.