Designing a small bathroom can feel like piecing together a challenging puzzle. With limited space and high expectations for utility and style, it might seem like an impossible task to achieve your dream bathroom. Fortunately, smart planning and the right choices can turn even the tiniest bathrooms into remarkable spaces.
Whether you're working on a petite ensuite, a guest cloakroom, or a small family bathroom, this guide from Asturias Bathrooms will help you make the most of your space. From choosing sleek fixtures to applying clever design tricks, we'll cover everything you need to know to create a compact yet functional bathroom tailored to your needs.
Understanding Small Bathroom Dimensions
Standard Bathroom Sizes in the UK and US
Small bathrooms can range from the UK's typical 1.5m x 2.4m dimensions (roughly 5ft x 8ft) to even smaller cloakrooms at approximately 0.85m x 1.6m. Meanwhile, in the US, even small bathrooms tend to start at around 1.5m x 2.4m (5ft x 8ft), with larger master bathrooms going well beyond 10ft x 16ft.
Understanding these standards gives you a helpful benchmark to assess your bathroom and determine what's realistically possible for your layout.
Key Building Regulations
For new builds or renovations, compliance with building regulations is essential. For example, guidelines typically require at least 750mm of clear space in front of a toilet and specific placement of ventilation systems for safety. Check with your local regulations to ensure your plans are both practical and fully compliant.
Space-Saving Fixtures and Fittings
Small bathrooms call for designs that maximise functionality without overloading the room. Here are some of the best space-saving options:
Corner Fitting Baths, Toilets, and Basins
Think of corners as opportunities rather than constraints. Corner baths and basins tuck neatly into unused areas, saving valuable floor space. Similarly, corner or wall-hung toilets free up the floor area, creating the illusion of a larger room.
Combination Vanity Units
Discover multitasking furniture with a bathroom furniture pack. These combination units integrate a basin with storage and sometimes even a toilet. Learn more about how to pick the right unit for your bathroom in this guide.
Space-Saving Bathtubs
Compact bathtubs, such as D-shaped or freestanding bathtubs, are designed to fit snugly in small bathrooms while still offering a satisfying soak. One such example is the Beaufort Malin D Shape Back to Wall Bath.
Small Bathroom Accessories
Accessories like a small bathroom bin, such as the Bristan Pedal Modern Waste Bin in Chrome, can upgrade your bathroom's functionality without taking up unnecessary room.
Design Techniques to Maximise Space
Small bathrooms can be deceptive in size when you employ visual design hacks to create a roomier feel.
Wet Room Concepts
Turning a small bathroom into a wet room eliminates the need for bulky shower enclosures, offering an open, cohesive area that's easy to clean.
Vertical Stripes and Space Illusions
Stripes aren't just for fashion; vertical stripes on your walls or tiles draw the eye upward, making a bathroom feel taller and more spacious.
Lighting Tricks
Install recessed spotlights or strategically place mirrors opposite light sources to reflect light around the room, creating an airier ambience.
Clever Storage Solutions
Storage is often a pain point in small bathrooms. Here's how to maximise it:
Ladder Radiators
These heated radiators double as towel racks, providing necessary storage for towels while also keeping them warm, such as the Scudo Vibe 500mm Wide Brushed Brass Towel Radiator.
Floating Shelves
Open shelves mounted higher up keep products within reach but out of the way, utilising vertical space wisely.
Design Tips for Comfort and Style
While practicality and storage are critical, comfort and aesthetics shouldn't take a backseat. Here are some tips:
Soft Edges and Rounded Designs
Consider rounded sinks, tubs, or mirrors to add elegance without harsh angles, reducing the risk of bumping into sharp edges.
Maintaining Accessibility
If you're designing a small bathroom for someone with mobility challenges, ensure wide entry-door access and opt for wall-mounted grab handles or no-threshold showers.
Add Greenery
Bring life into your bathroom with plants. Check out these small bathroom plant ideas for options that thrive in moisture-rich and low-light environments.
Small Bathroom Ideas Q&A
Can a small bathroom be painted a dark colour?
Absolutely! Dark colours can add drama and cosiness to a small bathroom. Balance it out with good lighting and metallic or glossy finishes to keep the space lively.
What colour makes a small bathroom look bigger?
Neutral tones like white, beige, and pastel shades reflect light effectively, making the bathroom appear larger. Pair these with large mirrors for an even greater effect, such as the Ajax Crossland 1200 x 600mm Rectangular LED Mirror.
Where to place the toilet in a small bathroom?
Ideally, position the toilet away from the entrance to improve privacy. Consider corner or wall-mounted toilets for dimensions that are tailored perfectly to compact spaces.
Make the Most of Your Small Bathroom Today
Creating a small bathroom that's equal parts functional and beautiful doesn't have to be daunting. By selecting the right fixtures, applying clever design techniques, and incorporating personal style, you can maximise every inch of space without compromise.
Need help to transform your compact bathroom? Browse our wide collection of space-saving solutions and shop for the perfect additions today.
