12 Small Bathroom Improvement Ideas

A small bathroom can be charming, cosy, and functional with the right design choices. There are plenty of creative and cost-effective ways to improve your space without knocking down walls. This blog explores smart small bathroom improvement ideas that help you maximise space, enhance functionality, and upgrade style.

1. Optimise Vertical Space

When floor space is limited, think vertical. Tall storage units, floating shelves, and wall-mounted cabinets are essential tools for creating storage without cluttering the room. Consider:

Floating shelves above the toilet for storing toiletries or displaying decorative items.
Tall linen towers or narrow storage cabinets that reach to the ceiling.
Wall-mounted towel racks or hooks to keep towels off counters and floors.

Open shelving not only frees up valuable floor space but also draws the eye upward, making the room feel taller and more spacious.

2. Install a Pocket Door or Sliding Barn Door

Traditional doors that swing inward can take up precious room. Replacing your standard bathroom door with a pocket door or a sliding barn door can save valuable square footage. These options glide open without encroaching on interior space, offering a sleeker look and more room for functional furnishings like cabinets or towel bars.

3. Go for a Pedestal Sink or Wall-Mounted Vanity

Bulky vanities may offer storage, but they often overwhelm a small space. Instead, consider:

A pedestal sink, which opens up floor space and gives the illusion of a bigger room.
A wall-mounted vanity, which creates an airy look while still offering some hidden storage.

Choose minimalist designs with clean lines to maintain an uncluttered, contemporary aesthetic.

4. Use Light, Reflective Colours

Colour plays a major role in how big or small a room feels. Dark colours absorb light and can make a small bathroom feel even smaller. Light shades, on the other hand, reflect light and open up the space. Ideal choices include:

Soft whites
Pale greys
Pastel blues or greens
Beige and cream tones

To add depth, incorporate contrast with accessories or textures rather than bold paint colours.

5. Add Mirrors (And More Mirrors)

Mirrors are a small bathroom’s best friend. Not only do they make a space feel bigger by reflecting light, but they also add a touch of elegance. Consider:

A large mirror above the sink, go as big as your wall allows.
Mirrored cabinets for dual functionality.
Full-length wall mirrors on an unused wall to increase perceived depth.

Bonus tip: Backlit or LED mirrors add modern flair and improve lighting.

6. Upgrade Your Shower or Tub

In tight bathrooms, even the shower area needs to be space-efficient. Here are some ideas:

Replace a tub with a walk-in shower it opens up the room and looks modern.
Use frameless glass doors instead of old shower curtains, to eliminate visual barriers and create a seamless look. Find out more here!
Consider a curbless shower with linear drains for a sleek, accessible, and spacious effect.

If you prefer keeping a tub, look for compact soaking tubs designed specifically for smaller bathrooms.

7. Improve Lighting

Many small bathrooms suffer from poor lighting, making them feel more confined. A layered lighting approach works best:

Overhead lighting: Use flush mounts or recessed lights to avoid crowding.
Wall lamps: Add sconces or vertical light bars on each side of the mirror for even, flattering illumination.
Ambient lighting: Consider under-cabinet or toe-kick lighting for a spa-like ambiance.

Opt for LED fixtures for energy efficiency and brightness.

8. Utilise Corner Spaces

Corners often go unused in small bathrooms. You can turn this space into something useful:

Corner sinks free up wall space and allow for better movement.
Corner shelves or triangular cabinets can house products and décor.
Curved corner showers are ideal for squeezing in a shower without overwhelming the room.

Every inch counts, don’t overlook the edges of your space.

9. Maximise Floor Space with Clever Storage

Small bathrooms need innovative storage solutions. Try:

Over-the-toilet cabinets or storage ladders.
Pull-out drawers or organisers inside vanity cabinets.
Magnetic strips or pegboards for grooming tools.
Hanging baskets or cloth bins to keep the floor clutter-free.

Customised storage ensures that everything has its place, reducing mess and improving efficiency.

10. Go Minimalist with Decor

In a small bathroom, less is more. Avoid overcrowding the space with too many decorative elements. Stick to:

A neutral colour palette with one or two accent pieces.
A few curated accessories, like a potted plant or art print.
Coordinated hardware (e.g., matching faucet, towel bar, and cabinet pulls).

Minimalism enhances serenity and makes maintenance easier.

11. Smart Use of Tiles

Tiles can visually expand a small bathroom if used strategically. Consider:

Large-format tiles, which reduce grout lines and create a seamless look.
Wall tiles, which make walls appear taller.
Diagonal floor tiles, which can create an illusion of more space.

Glossy or reflective tiles also help bounce light around the room, making it feel brighter and bigger.

12. Add Greenery

Even a small plant can make a big impact. A touch of greenery adds colour, freshness, and a spa-like atmosphere. Great low-maintenance options include:

Snake plant
Pothos
Ferns
Air plants

Smart Small Bathroom Improvement Ideas

Small bathroom improvement ideas don’t require a massive renovation or a hefty budget. With thoughtful design choices, smart storage, and a few aesthetic upgrades, you can transform your cramped bath into a stylish, efficient sanctuary. Prioritise functionality, embrace minimalism, and don’t be afraid to get creative. Even the tiniest space can pack a big punch with the right touches.

At UKO Glass we offer a range of bespoke glass options that can be used for any bathroom remodel. Whether your looking for toughened glass for a glass shower screen or a glass floating shelf we have it all! Speak to our team on 01422 861116 to discuss your next project today.