10 Ways to Make a Small Bathroom Look and Feel Larger

Small bathrooms can often feel cramped and uncomfortable, but with some clever design tricks and thoughtful renovations, you can make your bathroom appear larger without physically expanding its size. The key lies in creating the illusion of space and making the most out of every square inch. Whether you’re planning a complete remodel or just want to update a few elements, these strategies will help you transform your small bathroom into a more open, functional, and inviting space.

1. Maximize Natural Light

Nothing opens up a room like natural light. If your bathroom has a window, make sure to take advantage of it. Avoid using heavy curtains or dark shades that block sunlight. Instead, opt for frosted glass, light-colored blinds, or sheer curtains that maintain privacy while still allowing light to flow through. If a window isn’t possible, consider installing a skylight or solar tube to bring in more natural light.

For bathrooms without access to natural light, choose lighting fixtures that mimic daylight. Bright, white LED lights can help your space feel more open and fresh. Layer your lighting by using overhead lighting combined with wall-mounted fixtures or vanity lighting to eliminate shadows and brighten every corner.

2. Use Light, Neutral Colors

Color plays a major role in how big or small a room feels. Dark colors can make a room feel more enclosed, while light, neutral tones create the illusion of openness and airiness. Choose light colors such as white, pale gray, beige, or pastels for your walls, flooring, and fixtures.

However, light colors don’t have to be boring. You can introduce subtle texture or pattern to add interest. Consider using marble, subway tiles, or even a light-colored wallpaper with a simple pattern to give the room character while keeping it visually light.

3. Go for a Glass Shower Door

One of the most common features that makes small bathrooms feel even smaller is a traditional shower curtain or frosted glass door, which acts as a visual barrier, dividing the space. To make the bathroom feel more open, replace your shower curtain with a frameless glass shower door. This allows your eyes to travel the full length of the room, giving the impression that the space is larger than it actually is.

If installing a glass door isn’t possible, opt for a clear shower curtain. It will have a similar effect by allowing light to pass through and not visually cutting off part of the room.

4. Choose Large Mirrors

Mirrors are one of the oldest tricks in the book for making a small space feel larger. A large mirror reflects light and creates the illusion of more depth, tricking the eye into thinking the room is more spacious. Consider installing a mirror that stretches across an entire wall, especially above the vanity, to maximize this effect.

Another option is to use mirrored cabinets or accessories to add more reflective surfaces without overloading the space with additional furniture or fixtures.

5. Opt for Floating Vanities and Shelving

In small bathrooms, every square inch counts, including floor space. By choosing a floating vanity or floating shelves, you can free up floor space, which will make the room feel less cluttered and more expansive. These suspended vanities and shelves provide storage without the visual bulk of furniture that touches the floor. Plus, having open space beneath these fixtures allows for easier cleaning.

Additionally, consider minimizing the vanity size altogether. Compact vanities with built-in storage can provide the functionality you need without taking up unnecessary space.

6. Use Pocket Doors or Barn Doors

Traditional swing doors can take up a significant amount of floor space, making a small bathroom feel even more cramped. By installing a pocket door (which slides into the wall) or a barn door (which slides along the outside of the wall), you can save valuable space, both in the bathroom and in any adjacent hallway or room. These doors also add a modern and sleek design element to your bathroom.

7. Keep the Floor Clear and Consistent

A continuous, unbroken floor surface creates the illusion of more space. Avoid using multiple types of flooring in a small bathroom, as this can break up the space and make it feel smaller. Instead, use a consistent material throughout the entire floor. Light-colored tiles, such as ceramic or porcelain, work well for maintaining a spacious feel.

Another great trick is to use large-format tiles, as fewer grout lines create a cleaner, more streamlined appearance, making the space feel less cluttered. Consider extending the floor tiles into the shower for an uninterrupted look.

8. Incorporate Vertical Storage

In small bathrooms, storage can often be a challenge, but clutter is the enemy of spaciousness. Maximize vertical storage options by using tall, narrow shelving units, or installing cabinets and shelves that reach the ceiling. Vertical storage draws the eye upward, creating a sense of height and openness in the room.

Floating shelves, wall-mounted towel racks, and recessed shelving in the shower are all great options that provide storage without taking up precious floor space. You can also consider installing hooks for towels if you lack room for a traditional towel bar.

9. Opt for Minimalist Fixtures and Décor

When it comes to small spaces, less is more. Choose minimalist, sleek fixtures that don’t overpower the room. For example, wall-mounted faucets, compact toilets, and pedestal sinks can all free up space while maintaining functionality.

Keep décor simple and streamlined, avoiding overly ornate or bulky items. Instead, use a few well-placed pieces that add style without making the space feel crowded. Opt for clean lines and smooth surfaces to keep the bathroom looking fresh and modern.

10. Create the Illusion of Height

Make your bathroom feel taller by using design techniques that emphasize vertical space. Vertical stripes, whether through paint, wallpaper, or tile patterns, can help draw the eye upward. Additionally, hanging shower curtains or window treatments from just below the ceiling can create the illusion of taller walls.

Finally, install lighting fixtures that draw attention upward, such as sconces or pendant lights, to further emphasize the room’s height.

Conclusion of Small Bathroom

With thoughtful design choices, even the smallest bathroom can feel open and spacious. By maximizing light, using smart storage solutions, and opting for minimalist fixtures, you can create a bathroom that feels much larger than its actual size. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or just making a few updates, these tips will help you transform your small bathroom into a functional, beautiful space.