Small bathrooms can present a unique challenge; they are often cramped, can feel claustrophobic and are almost always lacking in storage. But our specialist bathroom designers at Mint Kitchen Group know your smallest room in the house can be highly functional AND look amazing, too.

With a little creativity and strategic planning, even the tiniest of bathrooms can be transformed into stylish and functional spaces. So, here are our expert tips and tricks for functional design with excellent aesthetic appeal to maximise space in a small bathroom.

Keep it Simple

Opt for a minimalist design for your small bathroom remembering that, when dealing with limited space, less is often more. Embrace minimalist design principles by keeping the colour scheme light and airy, using simple geometric shapes, and avoiding clutter. Choose a neutral colour palette for walls and flooring to create a sense of openness and continuity. Additionally, consider installing a pedestal sink instead of a bulky vanity to free up floor space and create a more streamlined look. If you want to include a pop of colour, choose one accent colour and use it sparingly so the room doesn’t feel overwhelming.

Vertical Storage

In small bathrooms, vertical storage is your best friend. Take advantage of wall space by installing shelves, cabinets, or floating shelves above the toilet or beside the vanity. This allows you to keep essential items within easy reach without sacrificing precious floor space. Alternatively, invest in a tall, narrow storage tower or cabinet to maximise storage capacity without taking up much floor space. Think about what absolutely must be stored in the bathroom and move anything else to an adjacent space, such as a hall cabinet.

Clever Storage Solutions

If your bathroom has a shower or bathtub, consider incorporating a built-in shower/bath niche or corner shelf. These space-saving solutions provide convenient storage for toiletries, eliminating the need for bulky shower caddies or racks that can clutter up the space. Choose sleek, recessed niches that blend seamlessly with the surrounding tile for a polished and cohesive look. Conceal as much storage as you can within the wall cavities to avoid items protruding into the room.

Space-Saving Fixtures

When working with your designer to select fixtures for your small bathroom, prioritise space-saving or compact options. Consider a compact toilet with a concealed cistern save valuable floor space. Likewise, choose a smaller bathtub (or forego the bathtub altogether) or opt for a walk-in shower to open up the room visually. Wall-mounted faucets and toilets can also help maximise floor space and create a clean, modern aesthetic.

The Magic of Mirrors and Lighting

Strategic placement of mirrors and lighting can work wonders in a small bathroom. Mirrors not only reflect light and create the illusion of more space but also add visual interest and depth to the room. Consider installing a large mirror above the vanity or across one wall to visually expand the space. Additionally, invest in bright, energy-efficient lighting to illuminate the room and make it feel more inviting. Don’t underestimate the power of a skylight that will flood the small bathroom with natural light and open up the ceiling to add the illusion of height.

Creative Storage Solutions

In a small bathroom, every centimetre of storage counts. Get creative with storage solutions by utilising unconventional spaces such as the back of the door, the area above the toilet, or even the space between wall studs. Install hooks or racks on the back of the door to hang towels or robes, and use baskets or bins to corral toiletries and other essentials. Over-the-toilet shelving units or built-in cabinets are also great for maximising vertical storage without taking up valuable floor space.

Multi-Functional Furniture

When space is at a premium, multi-functional furniture can be a game-changer. Look for pieces that serve dual purposes, such as a vanity with built-in storage or a mirrored medicine cabinet with integrated lighting. Folding or wall-mounted furniture, such as a drop-leaf table or collapsible shower seat, can also help maximise space in a small bathroom by providing functionality only when needed.

Keep It Clutter-Free

Maintaining a clutter-free environment is essential for maximising space in a small bathroom. Invest in storage solutions that allow you to keep toiletries, cleaning supplies, and other essentials organised and out of sight. Regularly purge unused or expired items to prevent clutter from accumulating, and avoid overcrowding the space with unnecessary decorative objects. Avoid adding to the visual mess with patterned or complicated tile layouts – simple really is best.

Internal Storage Matters

Internal storage solutions make a huge difference when it comes to the functionality of a small bathroom. Talk to your designer about drawer organisers, full-extension runners, lift-up systems, pull-down systems, sliding solutions and look for every opportunity to utilise hidden corner or otherwise “dead” space for storage. You’ll be surprised what can be achieved in the hands of a talented designer.

Small bathrooms are a design challenge but solutions are available that can convert a powder room, ensuite or other small bathroom into a highly-usable and pleasurable space.

Making the most of every centimetre of space in a small bathroom requires thoughtful planning, creative solutions, and a willingness to think outside the box and that’s what our award-winning Mint Kitchen Group designers are known for.

By embracing minimalist design principles, utilising vertical storage, choosing space-saving fixtures, and incorporating clever storage solutions, it’s easy to create a functional and stylish bathroom that feels spacious and inviting, no matter its size. 

With our expert tips and tricks in mind, you can transform your small bathroom into a sanctuary of comfort and convenience. To talk to one of our Mint Kitchen Group specialist designers, call us on 1300 767 611 or drop into one of our four conveniently-located Melbourne showrooms today.