Renovating a small bathroom can be a super exciting project that can offer a unique opportunity to transform a compact space into something highly functional and aesthetic. And although smaller bathrooms do come with spatial limitations, the right professionals should be able to think outside the box to inspire creativity and maximize every inch with the perfect bathroom renovation for a small bathroom remodel idea.
Here at Bennic Homes, we believe every successful bathroom renovation idea for small bathrooms begins with a plan. So, here is a quick guide that helps to understand how we renovate a small bathroom to be both stylish and efficient.
Plan with purpose
Smaller bathrooms typically measure under 50 square feet, so before diving into designs and materials, space planning is more critical. A solid plan should cover:
- Changes in the layout: Decide if you want to change the layout of your bathroom. This is important because in case you decide to change the layout, you might also need to fiddle around with the plumbing fixtures and electrical outlets. However, minor adjustments would not need much moving around.
- Choosing the right professionals: The next step is to seek out the right professionals to help you out once you figure out what needs to be done. Although simpler tasks like painting or moving stuff around can be handled by yourself, we suggest to leave the complex work to the trained professionals.
- Budget breakdown: Since the costs can stagger and accumulate over time, it is important to consider the costs associated with the potential upgrades.
Demolition
Once the plan is in place and the professionals are hired, the next step is to strip down the old and prepare for the new. Start by removing the old fixtures, flooring, or even entire sections of the wall to ensure that it is compliant with the remodelling plan. Your contractor can help streamline this process.
Note: Among the most important bathroom renovation ideas for small bathrooms that we can suggest is to try to save parts of the original bathroom that are in good condition to save on your expenses.
Optimize the layout
Determining the layout of the small bathroom is going to be the most crucial factor for effective functionality. It can be really surprising just how much a little change in layout or lighting can have a transformative effect on any space. Professionals start by looking for bathroom renovation for small bathrooms to maximize floor space. They do this by using space saving fixtures in the bathroom like a wall-mounted faucet or toilet, that can free up the floor space and offer a more streamlined look.
Upgrading the lighting is also important, as the brighter it is, the spacier it will make you feel. With the right lighting, even the most cramped spaces can feel super airy. Try using recessed lights that brighten corners without taking much space. Natural light is also effective in creating this feeling of openness. Open the bathroom window and let natural light in to make the bathroom feel much larger.
Use the right colors and mirrors
Every bathroom renovation idea for small bathrooms should be enhancing the feeling of space in your small bathroom. And choosing the right colours and strategic use of mirrors can make a huge difference. Here’s how
- Lighter shades for a more expansive feeling: Another great small bathroom remodel idea is using lighter shades of colour like whites, soft greys or even pastels, to make the space feel more open. Plus, this monochromatic palette helps to reduce visual clutter and makes the room appear more expansive. You can also consider matching your floor tiles with the wall to create a visually seamless look.
- Mirrors for reflection: Light reflecting off mirrors can add a new layer of depth and give the illusion of a bigger room. By installing mirrors at specific points, it easily brightens up the room and makes it feel much bigger.
Install smart storage
Keeping your bathroom essentials can be a major challenge, especially if you have a whole lot of stuff to store. Since space is a premium, smart storage options make the most sense, as these help to tidy up spaces without sacrificing floor space. Storage options like floating shelves and over the top cabinets help to provide additional storage for your essentials without crowding the room. Plus, these small bathroom remodel ideas also help to keep the room organised. You can also consider swapping out your bulky for a narrow one or a pedestal sink with storage underneath to add function without overwhelming the space.
Explore flooring and tiling options
Talk with your contractor and choose the right flooring and tiling solutions. The aim will be to give your small bathroom a more cohesive look that makes it visually appealing. Opt for flooring materials that are built to handle moisture, like ceramic or porcelain, as these not only are waterproof but also offer hassle free cleaning. For the design and colour, try to opt for tiles with larger scale patterns to create an illusion of more space. This will also reduce the number of grout lines and add a continuous flow to the room. Ideally, you should also consider matching the colour of the floor with the walls if you want to create a more expansive feel.
Small bathroom remodel ideas and tricks to consider
Little design tricks can go a long way in making a huge difference to how your small bathroom looks and feels. The right tricks can make it feel more open and inviting. Here are some simple bathroom renovation ideas for small bathrooms that can subtly influence the room’s perceived size.
- Minimalist accessories: Choose simple accessories and try to keep decorative items to a minimum to reduce clutter. This will create a cleaner look and enhance the feeling of space.
- Use large patterns: Floor and wall tiles for your bathroom should be chosen with larger patterns such as wide stripes or geometric shapes. This is important as it can make the room look much larger than it is. If you want to add a personality to the room, consider adding a statement wall with wallpaper or tile.
- Incorporate colourful elements: Bright towels, a textured bath mat, or colourful wall art add warmth and interest to a neutral toned bathroom.
- Add plants for a dash of green: Small plants add a refreshing and natural touch to your space. And since plants thrive in a humid environment, adding plants to your small bathroom can introduce a sense of calm.
- Invest in quality fixtures: While it seems easy to cheap out on fixtures and opt for the more affordable options, experts would advise against it. Invest in high quality fixtures, as these will more likely stand the test of time.
Remodelling a small bathroom may take time, but with the right professionals, it is a wonderful journey of creativity and personalization. With the right bathroom renovation ideas for small bathrooms and a few smart design tricks, watch your small bathroom quickly transform into a serene space that is open, airy and comfortable.
FAQs
How can I make a small bathroom look bigger?
Strategic placement of mirrors to reflect natural light, placing wall-mounted fixtures, using pastel shades to make the room feel more open and other tips mentioned on this list should help you make a small bathroom look bigger.
What are the best storage solutions for small bathrooms?
Try to use floating shelves and over-the-top cabinets to optimize space for storage in your small bathroom as this helps to free up valuable floor space.
What is the average cost of renovating a small bathroom?
The average cost of renovating a small bathroom can range between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on the ambition of the remodelling plan.
How long does a small bathroom renovation take?
Again, this depends on the ambition of the remodelling plan. Typically, it can take anywhere between two and three weeks.
Can I renovate a small bathroom on a budget?
Yes, it is possible to renovate a small bathroom on a budget. This can be done if you are willing to do some work for the remodelling. This can include things like painting, moving, installing fixtures, etc.
What are some popular design trends for small bathroom renovations?
Some of the best small bathroom remodel ideas to consider include the use of lighter shades of paint, using matching tiles with larger geometric patterns to create a seamless look, using space-saving storage options, and more.