Sometimes, great things come in small packages. But a small bathroom, especially one shared by a full house? Not always so great. From waiting your turn and bumping elbows while brushing teeth, to feeling closed in and claustrophobic, doing your thing in a compact space can prove challenging.

While you may be unable to add square footage during your bathroom remodeling, you can make the most use of every square inch you have and create the illusion of more space with a few key design strategies.

Keep things light and bright.

When working with a small space, it’s best to avoid dark colors for paint, furnishings, and finishes. Stay with a light monochromatic color scheme like greys, whites, blues, greens, or yellows. Pair with white trim and ceiling to make the small space feel more open.

Add splashes of color with accessories.

Just because you choose a light paint color and cabinetry doesn’t mean your bathroom can’t have pops of color. Try a patterned shower curtain, bold (moisture-safe) artwork, and colorful towels and bathmats to create a look that fits your style and personality.

Choose a clear glass shower door.

While a shower curtain or frosted glass shower door offers privacy, clear glass makes a bathroom feel larger and airy. Frameless shower doors are sleek, stylish, and easy to clean.

Bounce light around the room.

Whether it’s thoughtfully designed lighting or a picture-perfect window, bounce light around the space off reflective surfaces. Choose high-gloss fixtures, lustrous countertops and backsplash, and a large vanity to reflect light and make the room appear larger.

Raise the ceiling – visually.

Resist the urge to paint the ceiling anything but a crisp white. Create the illusion of height by choosing narrow- vs. thick-and-heavy crown molding. Choose recessed lighting for a bright, clean look. And opt for two tall vertical vanity mirrors over a single horizontal one.

Make room with a pocket door.

A standard bathroom door swings inward, cutting into usable floor and wall space. A pocket door, however, retracts into the wall, maximizing space. If remodeling a master bath, go one step further and consider a pocket door with a frosted privacy panel to open the space even more.

Get smart with storage.

Start by paring down what you already have, keeping only the essentials. If you have a nearby linen closet, move spare towels, toiletries, tissue, toilet paper, and cleaning supplies there to free up bathroom cabinet and counter space. Use the vertical space above the toilet and the empty space behind doors. Short on counterspace? Add a slim rolling cart to the empty space between the sink and commode. Baskets on floating wall shelves can also provide valuable storage for smaller items.

For help with bathroom upgrades or complete remodels, you’ve come to the right place – PC Plumbing, Heating, AC & Remodeling. We have a fully-staffed remodeling and handyman team ready to assist you with everything from design and demolition to installation and all the finishing touches. Contact us today a free consultation and remodeling proposal.