Remodeling a small bathroom can feel like a puzzle—how do you fit everything you need while making the space feel open, functional, and stylish? The key is smart design choices that maximize every inch. Whether you’re working with a compact powder room or a tight primary bath, a designer’s expertise can help you make the most of your remodel. From clever storage solutions to choosing tile, here are nine expert tips to transform your small bathroom into a beautiful, efficient retreat.
1. Establish a focal point.
Overall, it’s better to keep colors, patterns and materials simple. However, introducing one element that is bold or intricate, such as a bold tile or striking fixtures, creates a focal point and also let’s your personality shine through.
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2. Include clever storage.
Vanities – either single or double depending on space – are a given in a bathroom, but cabinetry can be used in multiple ways to maximize the space. Bertch has developed a number of clever cabinet options that add storage, functionality, or, in the bathroom below, a place for laundry that’s neat and tidy.
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3. Frameless Shower Doors
Use clear glass to maximize visual space and because it is a whole lot easier to clean than shower curtain liners.
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4. Create a modern look with large tiles.
Depending on your design aesthetic you can choose larger tiles – perhaps 24″ x 24″ – and minimize grout lines to create a clean, modern look. The consistent tone gives the sense of more room.
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5. Or show your style with unexpected tile
There is FAR more variety in tile these days. In fact, we often have our in-house designer help clients narrow down the options. Tile with unexpected shapes or an eye-catching pattern that is reminiscent of a tapestry or rug are very popular right now.
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6. Use a variety of materials.
In addition to tile, our designer suggests layering in marble, wood, metal, and paint to bring in subtle textures with polished and honed finishes.
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7. Stick to one type of metal finish.
There always seems to be a current trend on metal finishes and colors. For many years we saw a lot of brushed nickel. Today we see a mix including matte black and brass. There is no right or wrong here – pick what you like and keep the finish consistent on everything from the faucet handles to the shower head.
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8. Be judicious with color.
The color palette in a small space should be simple—using one main color in a variety of shades throughout is soothing and calm.
