If your bathroom is on the smaller size, there’s a few things you’ll need to take into consideration when planning your bathroom renovation, including the best design and layout for your needs. We’ve pulled together some of the best small bathroom ideas for you to think about and tips on how to get the most out of a cosy space.

Design considerations

It might not be possible to expand your bathroom’s area physically, but there are a few handy design hacks that can help create that illusion of having more space...

1. Consider the location of the toilet upon entry

The placement of the toilet in your small bathroom is more important than you may realise. You want to avoid having it facing directly at the door as you walk in – ideally it will be tucked away in a corner on the side wall (aka not the one opposite the entry).

2. Use larger tiles

Ready to think about tiling your bathroom? When you get to this stage, say no to tiny tiles or intricate styles like herringbone tiles. Instead, opt for larger tiles for a more seamless and less busy look. Small tiles on all walls will overwhelm the space and make it feel crowded, so they’re best avoided. 

3. Consider the natural light

Another hot tip when it comes to picking tiles is to think about the space’s natural light when selecting options. Light coloured tiles are a better choice than darker tiles. The darker options will overpower the space. Don’t forget about the tiles’ finish. Gloss tiles will bounce more light around the room and matte tiles will diffuse the light.

4. Think about storage options

With a small bathroom, unfortunately you may not be blessed with all the space in the world to install storage. Don’t worry, there are tricks you can use to capitalise on the space you do have. Shaving mirror cabinets can allow for extra storage. Also, really think about the need for shelves in the bathroom. Shelves might not be the best option for small bathrooms, so consider the floor space these would take up before working them into any plans.

5. Scrap the plasterboard

Scrap the plasterboard altogether in favour of tiling all the way to the ceiling to help the space look bigger than it actually is. Doing this creates visual continuity and the illusion of expanding the space. Quite a nifty trick! 

Layout considerations

Design isn’t the only thing that should be crossing your mind when building or renovating a small bathroom. Layout is key to take into account as this can really make or break a small space.

1. Opt for a cavity slider

If you choose a cavity slider door, as opposed to a swinging door inside your space, your bathroom will feel much less cramped. The benefit of a cavity slider door is that you don’t have to worry about blocking space in the layout for a swinging door to actually open - and it looks great as well!

2. Think about an in-wall cistern toilet

If your space allows for it, opt for an in-wall cistern toilet for a more cleaner understated look. These are great choices as they look sleeker and are more compact than other toilet models, giving you more room to breathe in your small bathroom. Another plus? They’re also much easier to clean.

 3. Opt for a shower over a bath set-up

Every centimetre counts when it comes to a small bathroom’s floor space. To save space, why not combine the shower and bath into one space instead of incorporating them into the design separately? If you’re not a fan of the shower-over-bath concept, sometimes it’s better to not include a bath in the space at all if only a tiny bathtub could feasibly fit.

4. Use large mirrors to create the illusion of more space

There’s an age-old trick that’s been used for years to make any space feel bigger than reality. Yep, it’s mirrors! Using large mirrors can create the illusion of more space in your small bathroom and these are a simple, space-saving element to add into your design plans. Just like magic!