Small Bathroom Ideas: Choosing Fixtures for a Small Bath
An overview of how to keep it small when it comes to bath fixtures.
Renovating a small bathroom does come with its perks – a smaller space means a lower cost spent on materials in your budget. Finding the right size and type of fixtures is crucial to making everything work in your small space. Keep reading to discover 13 small bathroom ideas that you'll love.
1. Choose a Compact Vanity
For the most compact small bathroom design, stick with a single vanity. A variety of vanities come in super small options that are less than 20" wide. If you need a vanity that's not as deep, look for a more rectangular shape with a longer width. The smallest double vanities typically start at 31" and go up from there. There are also corner vanities if you need an option that tucks into a small bathroom’s corner for more space. Look for a vanity with a combination of drawers and cabinets to optimize your bathroom storage.
If you don't have room for a bathroom vanity, wall-mounted sinks and pedestal sinks provide the most suitable options for an ultra-small bathroom. Look for a more rectangular shape to minimize the sink's footprint in your bathroom, or simply search for vanity sink sets that are under 22" inches to fit your space while still accomplishing your small bathroom ideas.
If your space has an empty alcove, a bathtub can be an excellent addition to a small bathroom. Freestanding bathtubs come in sizes as small as 47" long and 28" wide for a compact bathtub that allows you to enjoy a relaxing soak despite the limited space.
From the floors to the walls, tile is a great way to make your bathroom feel more spacious. There are plenty of tile sizes and shapes to choose from, so you can pick ones that match the style of your bathroom. To give your bathroom a bright and open feel, opt for light-colored or glossy tiles that reflect light. Another great way to maximize a small bathroom design is choosing a small repeating pattern that creates subtle texture without breaking up the space.
Tip!
Read our guide 7 Tiles for Small Bathrooms to Make the Space Feel Bigger to find more small space tile ideas.
5. Find a Faucet That Fits
Replace a bulky three-piece faucet set with a streamlined single-lever faucet. They offer more counter and sink space and come in a variety of styles so you can customize your bathroom. The same goes for shower and tub faucets, where simple and minimal fixtures offer the most usable space. However, if you don’t have room for both a shower and a tub, a handheld shower head offers the most versatility for all bathing needs. Installing a single handle faucet in a sink with three holes may require escutcheon plates to conceal excess holes.
Wall-mounted faucets are a great alternative to the traditional deck-mounted faucets. Not only are these wall-mounted faucets often easier to clean, they can also help you save on counter space. Try pairing an antiqued brass faucet with a pedestal sink for a vintage-inspired look, or pick a polished nickel faucet to go with a vessel sink for a sleek, modern twist to your small bathroom decor.
Floating vanities are another great way to make your small bathroom appear more spacious. Since these vanities are mounted to the wall, the floor extends all of the way to the wall and makes the space feel larger. Plus, the open space below the vanity is the perfect spot to stash extra storage baskets, a bathroom scale, or a laundry hamper.
Limited space doesn't have to mean lackluster light fixtures. Create a sense of style with your small bathroom ideas by selecting the appropriate size and placement of lighting based on where you have the most space. If there is more wall space next to the vanity, place two petite wall sconces on either side for a flattering form of lighting. If wall space in general is cramped, install one swing arm lamp above the vanity or hang a mini pendant from the ceiling.
Tip!
Measure twice, order once! Always measure your space and any existing fixtures you plan on replacing before you order.
9. Choose Towel Bars Specifically for Limited Wall Space
Most towel bars start at 23” wide and can go up from there, however you might want to opt for small bathroom decor by way of a shorter or dual-purpose bar with shelving. Look for towel bars that are 7” to 17” in width, which can accommodate about one average-sized bath towel. If wall space is limited, maximize the towel bar by placing a hand towel on top of your bath towel instead of installing a separate bar. Double towel bars or swing arm bars are good options if you have a small width to work with, but need to hang more than one towel.
There are a variety of other multi-purpose fixtures to help you optimize your small bathroom design. Because a vanity mirror takes up valuable wall space, it's best to choose one with convenient features like integrated vanity lighting or hidden storage. The built-in lights can illuminate the bathroom without taking up additional room while a medicine cabinet neatly stores all of your bathroom essentials and keeps the countertops clutter-free.
You may need to get creative with your small bathroom ideas when it comes to storage. There are several storage options to consider for a more practical space. Over-the-toilet cabinets use vertical space to store extra toiletries or cleaning supplies while shelving units are ideal for storing your bath linens and other everyday essentials.
Tip!
Check out our guide Maximize Your Space: 8 Small Bathroom Storage Ideas to find easy ways to organize your bathroom.
12. Install Wall Shelves
Need to clear up some counter space? Add a set of wall shelves near the vanity to stash any toiletries, extra hand towels, or skincare. The open shelves are a great opportunity to show off your favorite products and keep them close by. Look for wall shelves that have a raised lip or railing to keep your bathroom essentials in place.
Just because you're working with a small space doesn't mean you can't express your style. When decorating small bathrooms, look for elements that will create a bold statement. Opt for floral wallpaper for a refreshing touch, or hang a vanity mirror with a decorative frame to add an extra flourish.
Now that you are inspired by these small bathroom ideas, it's time for you to go out and create your own dream restroom!
