When it comes to making the most of the space in your home, it can seem difficult to make small spaces feel larger. This is especially true of a bathroom, where fixtures can take up most of the space. Thankfully, there are many ways you can make that space feel larger without the need for major renovations.
- Start by addressing the lighting shortcomings of your bathroom. If you have a window, install curtains or shades that offer privacy but also allow for the ingress of some natural light. Vanity lights above a mirror can be a stylish and practical addition, and thanks to rapidly advancing lightbulb technology, it’s easier than ever to find bright bulbs that aren’t too harsh. Good lighting in your bathroom will help give the space a bright, airy feeling that will go a long way in making it look bigger.
- Use mirrors to reflect light and give the illusion of additional space. Mirrors come in all shapes and sizes, and with a wide variety of styles for frames that can fit any other design themes present in your bathroom. Mirrors are a useful addition in any bathroom, but can also help open up the look and feel of the space.
- Remove bulky barriers. If you’re tight on space, you may feel like adding shelves will give you extra space for storage, but they can quickly make the room feel cluttered. If you’re going to add shelves into a tight bathroom, use small, glass shelves that allow light to pass through them and won’t cast shadows that threaten to darken the space. The same applies to under-sink cabinets- a pedestal sink takes up less space and allows for more open air.
- Declutter as much as possible. Store mats when not in use, and keep towels in a storage closet if available. Cut down on the number of soaps and shampoos by the shower or tub, and keep your countertop clutter to a minimum. Toiletries are a necessary part of bathrooms, but they don’t need to take up an excess amount of space.
- Take full advantage of vertical space. Hanging a cabinet higher in the room could provide the storage you need, while giving more open space at eye level. Use accent lighting to help keep these items from creating dark areas.
- Pocket and barn doors are a great way to add some extra space in the bathroom. Conventional doors can take up a lot of space when opening into the bathroom.
- Utilize clean, clear glass wherever possible. Translucent shower doors help make the space feel more open and are an easy way to make the space seem larger.
- Carefully choose your bathroom colors. Light tones are great for helping to reflect light and can make a space feel clean and large.
- Use monotone decorating to help draw the eye through the space. Once you’ve selected your color, use it consistently through the space. If you’re using a shower curtain, use one that will help the space feel larger, and not like there’s a giant divider blocking off a portion of the room. Towels and mats using the same or similar color can help create a seamless aesthetic throughout the space.
- Keep the space usable. Consider what the bathroom is going to be used for, and stock it appropriately. A powder room or guest bathroom will have a different set of needs than your master bathroom. Consider who will be using the space and how often they’ll be using it, and focus on making the space practical for what it’s likely to be used for. A shower that is rarely used will not need a fully stocked array of soaps and shampoos, for instance.
Making a small bathroom seem larger doesn’t have to be difficult! By combining a focus on practicality and good use of space with some basic color and lighting design, you can transform your bathroom into a much nicer space without needing to invest much time or money.
