Small bathroom ideas — 10 ways to add style and functionality to your tiny space

Looking for small bathroom inspo, but struggling to find ideas that are both pretty and practical? It's actually much easier than you think to have the best of both worlds, even without much square footage.

I've spoken with design pros to find out their favorite ideas. Mixing and matching tiles, maximizing vertical space, and marrying up bright and light colors are just a few of their favorite tricks. “Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or just want to jazz up your current space, there are plenty of fun and unique ideas to help transform your tiny bathroom into something fabulous,” says Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

If you're looking for bathroom ideas that will work especially well in smaller wash spaces, these tips will all come in useful.

1. Hang up a mirror

The number one easiest way to make a small bathroom look bigger is by bringing in small bathroom mirror ideas.

“Placing a mirror across from a window helps reflect natural light,” says Pam Hutter, principal designer at Hutter Architects. “A wall of mirrored cabinetry can provides storage while giving the illusion of depth.”

You can also try hanging multiple mirrors, instead of just one above the sink.

“Different shapes and sizes can create a cool, artsy vibe and really open up the room by bouncing light around,” adds Rachel.

Alternatively, you can just go for one simple and stylish mirror, as pictured above. For example, the Better Homes & Gardens Wall Mirror from Walmart is fashionable yet functional.

2. Try a light and bright color scheme

Choosing airy and bright colors is the way to go if you want to make this room look lovely and light.

“For example, in my beach house project, I used a pale aqua for the walls and turquoise accents,” says Pam.

“The cool tones complement the coastal setting while giving the small bath a feeling of expanse,” she adds.

I love coastal small bathroom ideas, and using hues such as aqua, mint greens, and whites are all great ways to bring in this style and the appearance of more space.

If you're looking for fun DIY small bathroom ideas, you could even paint your own nautical designs onto your walls.

3. Go for moody hues

While bright colors are beautiful, if you want to embrace the snugness of your space, going for dark small bathroom ideas could work better for you instead.

“Even though light colors can make a space feel bigger, dark, moody hues can create a cozy, intimate vibe,” says Rachel.

She suggests choosing dark brown, deep navy, or charcoal gray, and pairing them up with metallic accents like brass or gold for a luxurious touch.

4. Bring in a floating vanity

If you’re looking for small bathroom storage ideas that will enhance the look of the space as well as its usefulness, floating vanities are a brilliant idea.

“These are fantastic for small bathrooms. They free up floor space, making the room feel bigger,” says Rachel.

“Plus, you can use the space underneath for cute storage baskets or even a small plant to add some greenery,” she adds.

You can try playing with the height of your floating vanity — just make sure there is space underneath for light to flow through, as this will create the illusion of more space.

5. Mix and match tiles

One of the most impactful ways you can transform a small bathroom is by adding beautiful tiles.

“Minimal tile designs with large tiles, especially extending onto walls and ceilings, help small bathrooms feel open,” explains Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild.

“You could also try going bold with geometric black and white floor tiles, and keep the walls sleek with white subway tiles laid in a herringbone pattern,” suggests Kfir Aharon, design expert at House Design Hub.

Looking for pretty tiles to start with? The Art3d PVC Peel and Stick Mosaic Tiles from Wayfair are luxe-looking and are water-resistant.

Whether you use tiles as small bathroom splashback ideas or go for them around the whole space, they’re worth reaching for if you want to go for a dramatic change.

6. Choose an open shower

If your bathroom has room for more than a sink and a WC, you can try squeezing in a breezy shower complete with the best showerheads.

“For small bathrooms, I recommend an open shower with a curbless entry to maximize floor space,” says Pam.

She says to use large tiles, preferably in a minimal design, and then extend the tile onto walls and ceilings to help the space appear larger.

7. Maximize vertical space

A washroom always needs clever small bathroom wall storage ideas. When you don't have a lot of floor space, it's always a good idea to utilize vertical space.

“Add open shelving or cabinets above the toilet or sink to create storage area for your toiletries and towels and not take up floor space,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer at Arsight.

You could also add a ladder shelf, as it's both an attractive design feature and a handy storage piece. I like the style of the Lavish Home Store 5-Tier Ladder Shelf from Amazon, which is lightweight and comes in six different colors.

8. Add inviting houseplants

You can't go wrong with indoor plants. Real or faux, they instantly bring in color, texture, and literally life to even the smallest of spaces.

“A small potted plant or a hanging planter can add a pop of color and freshness,” says Rachel.

“Many plants do great in the humid bathroom environment, like pothos or succulents,” she adds.

Bringing in plants is also perfect for those looking for green small bathroom ideas

9. Try playful wallpaper

Wallpaper is the perfect way to bring in pattern and color without taking up any actual space.

“Wallpaper has made a big comeback, and there are many selections from retail and to-the-trade sources,” explains Angela Rennie, interior designer and founder of Angela Rennie Design.

“I love to use decorative murals with a botanical theme. Murals look like an artist has hand-painted the space, giving it a unique, special, and upscale look,” she explains.

From the wallpaper color palette, Angela recommends coordinating paint colors for cabinets and the ceiling.

10. Finish with thoughtful touches

When putting the finishing touches on a small bathroom, it’s important to bring in thoughtful details that will make your space shine.

“Invest in plush towels, a stylish soap dispenser, or a chic shower curtain,” says Rachel.

I also recommend adding candles and reed diffusers to add fresh fragrance. I like going for beachy scents in the bathroom, such as by using the Lovspa Beach Getaway Diffuser from Amazon which has citrus and floral notes.

These elements can elevate your bathroom and make it a place you truly enjoy.

FAQs

What looks good in a small bathroom?

Choosing decor and furniture for a small bathroom can be tricky, because you don't want to make the space look or feel any smaller than it already is. Pick out pieces of decor and accessories that are light colored, compact, and necessary. Avoid adding anything to the space that is not a necessity.

What color should I paint my small bathroom?

To make your small bathroom feel as light as possible, opt for a lighter hued color scheme, rather than a dark colored one.

How can I make my small bathroom pretty?

Making your bathroom look pretty is all about adding thoughtful finishing touches, such as plants, plush towels, cute bath mats, candles, and reed diffusers.

What color makes a small bathroom look bigger?

The color white is the best option for making a small bathroom look bigger, as it will reflect light, which will in turn create the illusion of more space.

By being intentional with your layout, bringing in clever storage solutions, and adding cute details, you can improve your space easily.

“Using these principles, you can make a small bathroom stylish, soothing, and seemingly spacious,” Pam finishes by saying.

Want to carry on looking for inspo for this space? Looking for modern small bathroom ideas will also help you refresh this space.