When it comes to small bathrooms, layout is everything. Limited square footage doesn’t have to mean limited potential. In fact, a well-designed small bathroom can deliver both style and function in a big way. At Russell Room Remodelers, we believe every bathroom, no matter how compact, deserves thoughtful planning, smart upgrades, and design solutions that make the most of every square inch.
Whether you’re updating a powder room, guest bath, or the only bathroom in your home, the right layout can completely change how the space works and feels.
Start with the current layout
Are there bulky elements taking up too much room? Is storage lacking? Do the fixtures make the space feel tight or awkward? Sometimes just changing the sink or vanity makes a big difference. For example, switching to a wall-mounted or pedestal sink can open up floor space. However, a pedestal sink may not be the best fit if storage is a priority.
A good compromise is a wall-mounted sink with a small cabinet underneath. It frees up visual space while still offering storage. In tighter layouts, a corner sink or shallow-depth vanity can also make the room feel less crowded.
Reevaluate the position of fixtures
You don’t always need to move plumbing, but in the right situation, relocating a toilet or shower can dramatically improve flow. A wall-mounted toilet saves space and gives the bathroom a modern look. Tucking the shower into a corner or behind a partial wall can also help the room feel more open and balanced.
If moving fixtures isn’t in the plan, consider vertical storage. Built-in shelving, tall cabinets, or floating shelves above the toilet are great ways to add storage without taking up valuable floor space.
Make the most of the shower area
A walk-in shower with zero entry (no curb) visually expands the space and is easy to use. Frameless glass shower doors let light flow freely, brightening the whole room. And don’t skip the storage. Recessed niches or corner shelves keep products off the floor and out of the way. We include a shower niche in nearly every remodel because it adds both function and visual cleanliness.
Rethink the door
Standard swinging doors can take up several feet of usable space. Replacing them with a pocket door or sliding barn door can free up floor space and open up new layout options. Even reversing the swing direction of an existing door can remove conflicts with nearby vanities or towel bars.
Lighting and mirrors do more than you think
Good lighting can instantly make a small bathroom feel bigger. Recessed lighting or well-placed sconces brighten dark corners and enhance visibility. Large mirrors (or mirrored medicine cabinets) reflect light and visually double the space. Don’t be afraid to go big with mirrors. It’s a simple change that can dramatically improve the feel of the room.
Keep it simple and intentional
In small bathrooms, every detail counts. Choose storage solutions that integrate seamlessly into the design. Lighter color palettes, large-format tiles, and consistent flooring help create a clean, open, and airy look.
A few years ago, we remodeled a small bathroom for a family that needed a second bath for their teenagers. We carved out just 28 square feet from an oversized closet, a 4′ x 7′ bathroom attached to a bedroom. By installing a wall-mounted toilet, a wall-mounted sink with storage, and using large-format tile and seamless shower glass, we visually and practically expanded the space. It turned out to be one of the coolest little bathrooms we’ve gotten to work on.
At Russell Room Remodelers, we love helping homeowners make the most of their homes, no matter the size. A small bathroom might have its limitations, but with the right layout and storage solutions, it can become one of the most functional and beautiful rooms in your home.
Ready to rethink your small bathroom?
Let’s design a space that works beautifully for you. Contact us today or call 651-735-8367 to get started.
