Bath Design: Creating a Great Room from a Small Space

While many of us may wish for a large bathroom with plenty of space for all those ideal fixtures, the reality is that a good proportion of homes have a small bath space to work with. However, while that small space may make it unrealistic to plan on installing all the frills, it doesn't mean that your bath need be drab and utilitarian. With clever design, your small bath can become a warm and welcoming space that contains all the necessary elements to make it both stylish and functional.

When decorating a small room, an open, airy atmosphere is the way to go, adding the illusion of more space than is actually there. Soft, light colors are best for the background elements, such as flooring and walls, as darker colors tend to make small spaces look even smaller. Brighter or darker colors should be saved for use sparingly as accents, adding a splash of color or contrast for visual interest. Clever use of lighting can give the space a roomier feel, as can strategic placement of mirrors. Recessed shelving is ideal for the small bathroom, adding visual interest and storage without decreasing floor space. Low profile glass shelves are a great option also, providing space for the essentials with a sleek and unobtrusive look.

Small spaces need smaller, low profile fixtures to avoid a cramped and cluttered look. Many manufacturers provide a line of smaller, space saving fixtures made especially to accommodate those smaller bath spaces. Bath vanities are available in smaller than standard size, as are sinks, showers, and bath tubs, and whirlpools. Custom fixtures can be a wonderful option as well, made specifically for your space, such as diagonal tubs, built especially for space saving corner installation, or asymmetrical ones designed for tight spaces.

The style of your fixtures can be just as important as the size when it comes to making the most of a small bath area. As with walls and flooring, light or neutral colors are often the best way to give the illusion of space. An open design, such as a pedestal sink rather than a boxy vanity, or a clear glass shower door rather than an opaque one, can keep the room from appearing cumbersome and cramped. If you are unsure of the best fixtures to use in your bath, or are thinking of using custom ones, contacting a professional bath consultant for your project may be wise. After all, remodeling your bath is quite a project, so it may be well worth that extra time and effort to make it a space you will be comfortable with for many years to come.