3 Ways To Make A Bathroom Look Bigger

A smaller bathroom doesn’t mean you have to compromise on comfort and style. There are effective ways to create the illusion of a larger bathroom without knocking down walls.

Whether you’re constrained by construction limitations, or budget concerns, below we cover three strategies to make your bathroom look and feel more spacious.

1. Elevate Your Bathroom Flooring  

When it comes to achieving a wider, more expansive perspective, your choice of flooring can have an impact. Tile is a classic choice for its durability and ability to repel water. Aside from color, tile size should be your primary consideration.

Large-Format Tiles  

• Opt for large-format tiles, preferably 12×24 inches or larger. These tiles reduce the number of grout lines on the floor, eliminating visual clutter and making the room feel less cramped.

• Use grout that matches the tile color to enhance the illusion of space further.

Hexagon Tiles  

• Consider using 1-inch hexagonal tiles arranged in a pattern. This not only captivates the eye but also conveys efficiency, making the bathroom appear larger.

• The brain’s inability to count the numerous tiles creates the perception of an expansive area. When your eye scans the floor, your brain automatically tries to calculate how many tiles must have been required to fill the space. When that number registers as “too many to count,” your brain automatically sees the room as bigger.

• Second, the hexagon is nature’s most mathematically efficient shape. Our eyes are drawn to and soothed by order. The hexagon convinces the mind that this space is being used efficiently, which makes it feel bigger.

Steer clear of traditional 6″ x 6″ or 8″ x 8″ tiles. They tend to make small bathrooms feel more confined.

As far as color goes, think light and bright to give your bathroom the most spacious, airy feel possible. We recommend whites, creams, pastels, and neutrals.

You can always add a splash of color in the accents to draw the eye and break up the monochromatic look. Reserving bold colors for accents to add visual interest without compromising spaciousness.

2. Embrace Shower Solutions  

Glass Shower Doors  

In compact bathrooms, the shower often occupies a considerable portion of the space. To prevent it from visually dividing the area, consider incorporating a glass shower door instead of a shower curtain.

Glass doors reflect light and allow you to see the back wall, expanding the visual space. Opt for clear glass to maximize this effect, as frosted glass may mimic the visual barrier created by a curtain.

Extend Shower Tiles    

To enhance the perception of height further and space, extend shower tiles all the way to the ceiling. Avoid dark colors and intricate tile patterns. Simple, light shades are key to creating an illusion of openness.

If a glass door is beyond your budget, you can achieve a similar effect by installing an extra-long shower curtain and positioning it as close to the ceiling as possible. This elevates the eyes and gives the impression of a higher ceiling, amplifying the feeling of spaciousness.

3. Smart Vanity & Storage Solutions  

Pedestal Sink    

In a small bathroom, traditional full-sized vanities can take up valuable wall and floor space, making the room feel cramped. Consider opting for a pedestal sink to open up the area both visually and physically. Pedestal sinks are not only space-saving but can also be more budget-friendly than installing a vanity.

Recessed Medicine Cabinet    

To address storage needs, install a recessed medicine cabinet. This clever solution keeps countertop clutter at bay without compromising space. Additionally, invest in a generously sized mirror above the sink. Mirrors reflect light and create the optical illusion of a larger space.

Vertical Storage & Creative Niches  

If you’re reluctant to sacrifice storage entirely, explore vertical storage options and creative niches. Floating shelves above the toilet, matching the wall color or featuring a light-stained natural wood grain, can provide ample storage while maintaining an open atmosphere.

Custom corner storage solutions can also accommodate essential items without compromising the sense of spaciousness, allowing you to keep toothbrushes, neatly rolled towels, and even a few decorative elements like succulents.

Interested in seeing how a few simple changes could transform your bathroom? Request a free design consultation with one of our bath designers. We are here to assist you in realizing the bathroom of your dreams, regardless of its size.