8 Strategies to Optically Enlarge a Compact Bathroom
Transform that cramped bathroom into a visually spacious oasis with these clever design tricks from acclaimed interior designers. Whether your budget is large or small, these tips will help you maximize the potential of your space.
Swap That Shower Curtain for a Glass Door
Shrouded in darkness, shower curtains constrict your bathroom like a cape. Swap them out for a seamless transition with a glass door. "A glass door instantly adds several extra square feet into the space visually," asserts James Pearse Connelly, an esteemed interior designer and founder of JPConnelly.com. See more of the room with openness, but don't forget that what's visible needs to be tidy for the illusion to work.
If installing a new glass door is beyond your reach, at least opt for a translucent shower curtain to open up the visual impact.
Maximize Light Reflection
Another trick to optimizing your tiny bathroom is to draw in the maximum amount of light. James Pearse Connelly suggests incorporating large mirrors to capture as much sunlight as possible. Toss that old medicine cabinet in favor of a substantial mirror to bounce light around.
Additionally, consider using chrome hardware, as chrome gleams and reflects light, creating a dancing effect in your bathroom.
Embrace Monochromatic Schemes
James Pearse Connelly recommends implementing either a deep, rich, or light, airy color palette. The color scheme should significantly affect lighting in the space, thereby giving the bathroom the appearance of expansion. Revel in dark navy blues and deep burgundies, or opt for achromatic ivories and creams for a sophisticated yet roomy ambiance.
Keep Sinks to a Minimum
The vanity and sink can make or break your bathroom's expansion. Shannon Askinasi, an interior designer based in Ash and Pine Interiors, suggests opting for floating wood or marble vanities to create the illusion of extra space. "When you can see the floor beyond the vanity, it makes the room feel larger," she remarks, emphasizing the importance of natural space.
If space is limited, consider pedestal sinks – simple and functional – though they may lack the storage potential of a full-fledged vanity.
Go Bold with Patterned Wallpaper
Why not try a daring approach with vertical stripes, chevrons, or large repeat patterns in vinyl wallpaper? Interior designer Shannon Askinasi swears by this strategy for smaller bathrooms. However, be sure to maintain a generous amount of negative space to avoid overwhelming the room.
Mirrors Create Depth
Don't shy away from incorporating multiple mirrors in your tiny bathroom. Mirrors build depth, making your bathroom feel farther than it actually is. Install eye-catching, glass pendant lights or sconces adding to the three-dimensional effect while brightening up your room as well.
Consistency is Key
Harmony across surfaces will create a cohesive and visually appealing look in your bathroom. Ensure that floor tiles wrap around walls, the ceiling matches the color of the walls, and countertops extend to the mirror. Keep your focus on unity – avoid emphasizing specific details.
Declutter Your Space
Clutter is the behemoth that crushes the illusion of a roomy bathroom. Store away extra items in out-of-sight spots, leaving only necessary objects, such as soap dispensers and toothbrushes, out. And although the garbage can is essential, hide it away for the cleanest appearance. It’s all about maintaining a streamlined feel in your bathroom.
Modern and Sleek Fixtures
Innovative, modern fixtures allow you to make the most of your minimal space. Corner showers, slim toilets, and wall-mounted sinks with integrated storage are space savers that will instantly enhance your bathroom's appearance. Opt for these space-saving solution to get the most of your room.
Vertical Storage
Opt for sky-high, narrow cabinets or shelves that reach the ceiling to maximize storage without encroaching upon your floor space. Vinyl wallpaper with intricate patterns, like chevrons or vertical stripes, can make a small bathroom appear larger while keeping your storage options in mind.
A Bright Solution
Bright, natural lighting is an essential component of an open-feeling bathroom. Opt for large windows, frosted glass, or skylights to bring in as much natural light as possible. Don't let a lack of windows deter you – consider LED strips under shelves or around mirrors to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Incorporate these expert-backed design tricks into your small bathroom, and you'll soon have the room of your dreams.
- To accentuate the visual space in your bathroom, James Pearse Connelly from RealSimple suggests installing a glass door instead of a shower curtain. This will give the illusion of additional square feet.
- To make the most of limited natural light in your bathroom, consider using large mirrors to reflect as much light as possible, just like James Pearse Connelly recommends.
- For a monochromatic scheme in your bathroom decorating, Shannon Askinasi suggests opting for a deep, rich, or light, airy color palette. Emphasizing the use of a single color can make the space appear larger.
- To create the illusion of extra space, interior designer Shannon Askinasi suggests opting for floating vanities or pedestal sinks with minimal storage. This will allow you to see the floor beyond the vanity, making the room appear larger.
