Designing a small bathroom may seem challenging but with the right approach, you can maximize a petite space so it’s equally stylish and functional.
However, you’ll want to stay mindful and avoid these 14 common design pitfalls that pros often encounter. Below, they note what to skip and what to do in your space instead.
Not Including Personal Touches
Michael Graham-Smith, the founder of Graham-Smith Designs, emphasizes the importance of bringing personality into your bathroom whether it’s through art or photography from things that are personal to you like travel or memories.
Framed photos will look great on an empty wall beside the sink, for example, while a favorite candle placed on an open shelf can add a luxe look to the loo.
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Playing Things Too Safe
On a related note, there’s no need to shy away from bold design in the bathroom.
“Whether it’s a deep and moody color or a patterned wallpaper, often a small bathroom is the perfect place to ‘create a moment’ because it’s not overwhelming in a small dose,'” Melinda Browning, the founder of Melinda Browning Interior Design, says.
Forgetting About the Floor
Who says your bathroom flooring can’t pop? Graham-Smith likes the idea of skipping standard tile and instead going bolder. He recommends trying something eye-catching, such as a zellige tile, patterned cement tiles, or terracotta,
“A bold floor can act as a focal point, drawing attention away from the size of the room and making it feel more visually dynamic,” the designer says.
Not Installing the Right Sink
Pedestal sinks are fine in a powder room, Browning shares. However, she advises skipping them in the main bathroom, particularly if you’re already tight on space.
If you’re going to get ready in the bathroom daily, it can be frustrating to not have any place to set down your stuff like a hairbrush or your mascara, Browning explains.
Not Layering Lighting
Don’t assume that just because your bathroom is small you should only weave one light fixture into the space. Browning is a proponent of installing both overhead lighting and sconces and even recommends opting for a small portable lamp if space allows.
“You may only ever turn the overhead light on when the bathroom is being cleaned or you’re removing a splinter, but when you need it, you’ll be glad it’s there,” she says.
Not Adding a Dimmer
Incorporate a dimmer into your bathroom and thank yourself later, Melissa Mathieu, the founder of Melissa Mathieu Designs, shares.
Mathieu explains how adding a dimmer will allow you to adjust the mood and create a warm, inviting atmosphere, making the room feel more expansive and relaxing.
Not Choosing the Right Scale of Fixtures
Not all lighting is suitable for a small bathroom, and you will want to be mindful of scale as you shop.
“Proportion is everything,” Graham-Smith says. “Oversized sinks, vanities, or light fixtures can overwhelm the space, while fixtures that are too small may seem underwhelming.”
Finding pieces that are just right will work wonders in ensuring your space appears sophisticated.
Not Thinking About Ventilation
No one wants to welcome mildew and moisture into the bathroom, which is why proper ventilation is a must-have. Graham-Smith advises installing a powerful, well-placed vent fan.
“Not only will it protect your beautiful design, but it will also improve the overall air quality of the space,” Graham-Smith says.
Not Prioritizing Storage
Everyone has day-to-day skincare, haircare, makeup, and toiletry products that will need a home in the bathroom. You may not have to pare down your collection all too much if you get creative with your storage solutions.
“Built-in niches in the shower, under-sink closed storage, or even sleek wall-mounted baskets can provide space without feeling bulky,” Graham-Smith says.
Not Utilizing the Toilet Tank
Put the top of your toilet tank to work. Browning recommends placing a lidded box there and using it to house tissues and other everyday essentials to maximize your small space.
Not Purchasing Big Bins
Bringing large, lidded bins into your bathroom can help you to corral all of your towels, hair tools, and more, Browning says. Opt for decorative bins so they can easily blend in with the rest of your decor.
Ignoring Vertical Space
Work the walls however you can in a small bathroom.
“Failing to utilize vertical space can be a missed opportunity to improve how your bathroom functions for daily living,” Graham-Smith says.
He suggests going big with statement lighting and weaving in floating shelves and tall cabinets, which draw the eye upward.
Overcrowding the Space
Skip the gallery wall in a small bathroom and try another approach without overcrowding the room, Mathieu advises.
“If you have an open wall, replace multiple small pieces of art with one large statement piece to draw the eye up and create the illusion of a larger, more expansive room,” she says.
Not Choosing Fun Light Fixtures
As Browning mentioned above, a layered lighting scheme is ideal even in a small bathroom, but keep in mind that lighting isn’t solely meant to be utilitarian.
“Remember to have fun when selecting light fixtures”, Mathieu says. “They can significantly enhance your space’s character and style.”
