Ben's Construction Inc

Designing the perfect small bathroom can seem intimidating. Fortunately, there are simple rules that any homeowner can follow to create a stunning and highly-functional space, no matter its size. 

Keep reading Ben’s Construction Inc. lists the five big design rules for creating the perfect small bathrooms and discusses how you can use them in your own home renovations.

The 5 Dos of Designing Small Bathrooms

1. Prioritize Functionality

The key to creating a beautiful small bathroom is to prioritize functionality over aesthetics. You need room for the necessary fixtures and storage while still allowing yourself enough comfortable space. Below are a few tips for achieving that:

Utilize Space Wisely

Make sure you use every nook and cranny in your bathroom so that nothing goes to waste. Consider hanging shelves or an open floor plan with minimal furniture pieces for more organized space usage. When in doubt, less is more.

Maximize Storage

Finding room for extra towels, toiletries and other bathroom items can be tricky when dealing with limited space. Integrate multiple organizers like floating baskets and corner cabinets into your walls or around the edge of the sink basin or bathtub. This will allow you to make good use of existing storage solutions such as drawers, shelving systems and cubbies. Most importantly, it will help you keep everything neat and tidy.

Consider Plumbing and Ventilation

When you’re working with a small space, you want to ensure all fixtures fit properly without compromising functionality or comfort. If possible, opt for wall-mounted sinks and toilets as opposed to traditional floor-mounted ones. Also, consider installing an efficient ventilation system. Proper airflow allows moisture from a shower or bathtub to escape quickly and efficiently. Lingering dampness and water vapor accumulation over time can result in mold growth, especially in smaller spaces.

2. Choose the Right Fixtures

Fixtures can dramatically change the look and feel of a bathroom, so make sure you choose wisely. Here are some tips: 

Select Appropriate Sizes

Choose fixtures that will fit your space without cluttering it. For example, opt for a wall-mounted sink to save floor space instead of a bulky pedestal model. Additionally, try to avoid oversized bathtubs unless absolutely necessary. Large tubs can take up too much room and make the small area feel even more cramped. 

Choose Low-Maintenance Finishes

If you have a smaller space, prioritize convenience and speed over aesthetics when possible. It’s best to choose low-maintenance finishes such as ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiling is easy to clean and requires minimal upkeep throughout its lifespan.  

Consider Wall-Mounted and Floating Fixtures

Wall-mounted sinks or floating vanity pieces are great options if you’re working with limited square footage. These pieces don’t require additional floor space since there isn’t something like a heavy pedestal unit or cabinetry attached.

3. Utilize Color and Textures

Color and texture can make or break a bathroom design. To help you choose the right ones, listed below are a couple of smart ideas:

Stick to Clean and Neutral Colors

Small bathrooms usually benefit from neutral colors such as whites, beiges, ivories and tans. This color palette helps create an airy feel. In addition to enhancing spaciousness, neutrals tend to pair well with any fixtures or materials that you choose down the line.  

Use Reflective and Matte Surfaces

Create an illusion of more space by utilizing reflective surfaces such as mirrors and textured glass tiles along wall areas. Matte finishes such as vinyl, stone and patterned wallpapers can all provide the desired effect for your small bathroom. Using a material with minimal contrast or not too much shine will help dispel light back across the room, making it appear bigger than it actually is.

4. Leverage Natural Light

Sufficient sunlight has the potential to transform your bathroom from cramped and dark to airy and inviting. You can bring more natural light into your space by following these tips:

Install Larger Windows

Adding windows is an easy way to brighten a room, especially if it’s small. If possible, install bigger windows than usual so that more light can enter the bathroom.  

Consider Skylights

Installing skylights in the ceiling will allow for even more natural illumination while making a room appear larger. Work with a trusted contractor to ensure they’re properly sealed to avoid leaky ceilings.

5. Incorporate Smart Design

When designing a small bathroom, you want to make sure that all of your choices are practical and cost-effective. Here are some ideas: 

Install a Wall-Mounted Toilet

Installing wall-mounted toilets will free up some precious floor space while providing maximum comfort. Wall mounts often come with concealed plumbing systems that cut out the need for bulky water tanks on the back or side of the toilet. 

Utilize Corner Sinks

A corner sink is an ingenious way to save floor space while adding more storage underneath its cabinet unit which is perfect for extra towels and other accessories. Make sure you measure your space carefully before considering a corner sink, as they’re not the right choice for every space.

The Value of Working With a Trusted Contractor

Tackling a small bathroom makeover can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to home renovation. It’s important to find the right roofing contractor to help you bring your dream design into reality. Doing research and getting quotes from multiple industry professionals is key. You’ll not only want to find someone who thoroughly understands what look and feel you’re going for, but is well-reviewed, licensed and insured. From helping you select the best fixtures to coordinating the entire renovation process, enlisting an experienced professional will undoubtedly lead you toward success.

Let the Pros Help You Build Your Dream Bathroom

With the right design principles, even small bathrooms can be beautiful and highly practical. Prioritizing functionality while cleverly utilizing space is key to creating the perfect bathroom, no matter its size. By following these big design rules, you’ll end up with an expertly designed small bathroom that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

If you’re looking for ways to make your small bathroom feel more spacious, try these tips from the experts at Ben’s Construction Inc. in Natick, MA. From choosing the right colors and fixtures to using mirrors and other visual tricks, we can help you create a bathroom that is both functional and stylish. We also offer a wide variety of home improvement services, like gutter installation and shingle replacement. Call us today at (508) 962-2417 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.