Dreaming of a bathroom refresh but feeling limited by the small space? A small bathroom remodeling can feel limiting due to the tight square footage. But with some savvy design choices, even the most modest spaces can take on a fresh new look.
To offer inspiration and advice, we consulted top kitchen and bath design pros on their best ideas for maximizing small bathroom remodels on a budget. Read on for 15 budget-friendly ways to maximize your small bathroom remodeling project.
Table of Contents
1. Install a Space-Saving Wall-Mounted Vanity
One of the best ways to visually open up floor space is by swapping a standard vanity for a wall-mounted floating style. Opt for budget-friendly materials like bamboo, metal, or tempered glass to get the floating look without premium costs. Pair with a coordinating frameless rectangular mirror to complement the clean lines. Make sure to have an electrician add a new outlet behind the mirror. Not only will this vanity save inches of floor space, but it create a contemporary vibe.
2. Give Walls a Fresh New Color
Sometimes just a few pieces or a couple of cans of paint are all you need to give your small bathroom an entirely new look! The power of color should not be underestimated. Consider energetic hues like emerald green, punchy orange, or sapphire blue for vintage flair. More modern neutrals like warm grays, earthy greens, and creamy off-whites keep the space light and airy. Add an accent wall in wallpaper or a contrasting color to amp up the zest.
3. Update Faucets and Hardware
Over time, faucets and hardware will suffer drips, stains, and water damage. Replacing them is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly ways to revive your bathroom remodeling look. Sleek, minimalist designs work well in petite baths. Focus on finding faucets and handles that match the proportions of your vanity and sink – oversized fixtures can overwhelm you. Stick to chrome or matte black for versatility. While you’re at it, update tired drawer pulls and mirrors too! This simple facelift packs a lot of punch for little cost.
4. Use Peel-and-Stick Tile Flooring
Peel-and-stick materials have been a game changer for affordable, DIY-friendly upgrades. You can now find peel-and-stick versions of floor tile, wall tile, wallpaper, stone veneers, and more. Opt for water-resistant vinyl tiles to replicate the look of ceramic or porcelain for a fraction of the installation cost and mess. Geometric prints and stone looks work well. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is another fast and budget way to refresh your back wall. YouTube tutorials make application easy.
5. Repurpose Existing Items
Work with what you already have! Refacing cabinets, drawers, and vanities through sanding, painting, staining, or adding new hardware refreshes for far less money than a full replacement. Repurpose a dresser or sideboard as a unique double-sink vanity. Move existing plumbing and fixtures around into a new configuration. There are so many ways to give your bathroom a makeover through clever refinishing and repurposing.
6. Add Portable Storage Solutions
In a small bathroom, clutter can quickly build up and make spaces feel cramped. The key is adding storage that can neatly tuck all those lotions and potions out of sight. Freestanding cabinets give you a place to organize without major built-ins. An over-the-toilet cabinet doubles your storage space. For a spa-like look, try a bamboo side table or rattan three-tier cart. You can find wall-mount medicine cabinets with mirrors to multiply storage and light. The options for portable and multifunctional storage are endless!
7. Expand Visually With Mirrors and Art
You can trick the eye and make your petite bathroom feel more expansive by strategically placing mirrors and wall art. Hang a statement mirror above the vanity to double the light and sense of space. Flank double vanity and the sink with vertical nickel sconces for a gleaming and streamlined style. Add framed art prints on opposite walls to draw the eye across the room. Your tiny bath will suddenly feel so much bigger!
8. Change Grout Colors
If your existing tilework or shower surround is still in good shape, changing the grout and caulk offers an afternoon refresh. Both grout and caulk can start looking dingy and dated over time. Re-grouting and re-caulking in fresh, bold colors like navy blue, emerald, or even metallic silver updates the look instantly. YouTube has great DIY caulking and grouting tutorials. Just be sure to use mold-resistant bathroom grout and caulks.
9. Add a Mini-Backsplash
Backsplashes protect walls and add high-end style on a budget. Peel-and-stick materials like marble mosaic tiles, glass subway tiles, and faux metal sheets offer quick and affordable backsplash solutions as they require no messy mortar installation. If your vanity is floating, a full-height backsplash looks great. Include an outlet if adding a backsplash around an existing vanity. Mini stone or glass tile brings a big style.
10. Reglaze Bathtubs, Tile and Showers
Is your tub, the shower walls, or the surrounding tile looking worn and dingy? Before undertaking a full demo, consider reglazing. Most bath surfaces can be restored affordably by refinishing their surface through reglazing. This allows you to salvage existing materials that are structurally sound. Reglazing costs a fraction of full replacement and can make tile, fiberglass, and porcelain feel brand new.
11. Install New Window Panes
Existing windows are easily dressed up by switching out their panes. For privacy, frosted and textured glass obscures views while still allowing light. Or go bold with colored glass panes in bright, vibrant jewel tones. Adhesive window films let you experiment with patterns and textures too. This project is a fun afternoon DIY. Just carefully measure your existing panes before ordering replacements.
12. Update Lighting Fixtures
Lighting can make or break a bath’s overall style. Overhead cans or old fluorescent boxes can cast unflattering shadows and a cold institutional vibe in the master bathroom. Replace them with wall sconces, modern pendants, or LED lighting strips. Install a dimmer for added mood and function. Mix metals like antique bronze and polished chrome for eclectic flair. The options for small bathroom lighting are endless!
13. Refresh the Shower
A new shower curtain infuses color, pattern, and texture quickly and affordably. Choose materials that complement your bathtub’s overall design while withstanding humidity and moisture. Fabric shower curtains should have water-resistant linings – think polyester blends over cotton. Install the rod slightly outside the tub to maximize floor space. Make sure the length hits the tub rim. Upgrade drab sliding doors with a fresh curtain and you’ve got an entirely new look!
14. Increase Storage with Shelving
The key in small bathrooms is using every possible square inch for storage and display. Corner shelves, wall cabinets, under-sink organizers, and towel ladders all allow you to neatly stow essentials. Stick to portable, movable pieces over permanent built-ins for flexibility as storage needs change. Baskets and bins keep odds and ends tidy. With savvy organization, you can pack a lot of functions into the wall space in your petite bath.
15. Refinish Vanities and Cabinets
An afternoon refreshing your existing vanities and cabinets with fresh coat, stain, or hardware can make them look brand new. First, clean surfaces thoroughly and fill any holes and imperfections with wood putty for a smooth finish. For painted surfaces, use a high-quality primer followed by two coats of latex paint in a semi-gloss or gloss sheen for durability and wipe ability. Let paint dry fully between coats. Consider mixing cabinet colors for contrast.
Tips on Designing Small Bathroom Remodel
When taking on a small room project, strategic design choices are key to maximizing the layout and creating a polished look. Follow these small bathroom design top tips:
Limit Visual Clutter
Any clutter sitting out will make a small bath feel confining. Keep counters and ledges clear by stowing your towels and necessities inside drawers, cabinets, and baskets. If your budget allows, install vanities with deep drawers and closed cabinets for ample concealed storage. Closed wall cabinets also hide items so surfaces stay clean.
Rethink Fixtures
Standard bathtubs and vanities can overwhelm a petite bath. Compact pedestal sinks open up the floor area underneath. Slipper tubs or rounded oval tubs curve into corners with a smaller footprint than square tubs. Floating vanities save inches of floor space. If layout allows, pocket doors eliminate swing clearance so existing doors can open wider.
Keep Flooring Consistent
Using the same flooring material from wall to door to wall expands the look of a limited space. Place floor tile under vanities rather than having tile perimeter with different under-vanity flooring. Consistent flooring makes even a 3×5 bathroom feel unified.
Work With Small Bathroom Contractors
While simple DIY updates are feasible, bathroom renovations often require experts to handle plumbing, electrical, tile, carpentry, and design work. Taking the time to hire the right bathroom remodel contractor ensures your project stays on time, on budget, and up to professional standards. Skilled pros know how to work efficiently in tight bath spaces.
Bottomline
Follow the savvy tips and affordable ideas in this guide to create a petite but polished bath you’ll be excited to spend time in. With strategic choices that play up the features of your existing footprint, even the tiniest bathroom can take on a fresh, spacious new feel. Get ready to fall in love with your beautifully reimagined small bathroom!