10 Very Small Bathroom Ideas to Maximize Space & Style

If you’ve ever stood in your bathroom and thought, “How can I possibly make this work?” — I’ve been there too. Designing a very small bathroom can feel limiting, but in reality, it’s one of the most creative and rewarding spaces to transform.

Over the years, I’ve worked on countless small bathroom remodel ideas, and I can confidently say this: size doesn’t determine style. With smart layout decisions, clever storage, and intentional decor, even the tiniest space can feel open, functional, and beautiful.

In this guide, I’m sharing my favorite very small bathroom ideas, packed with practical solutions you can actually use — whether you’re working with a 5×7 layout, a narrow ensuite, or a compact apartment bathroom.

Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

• 1. Optimize Your Small Bathroom Layout Ideas First
• 2. Choose a Floating Vanity for a Compact Bathroom
• 3. Install a Wall Mounted Toilet for Extra Space
• 4. Use Large Mirrors to Make a Small Bathroom Look Bigger
• 5. Add Recessed Bathroom Shelves & Built-In Niches
• 6. Go Vertical With Tile and Storage
• 7. Use Glass Showers to Open Up the Space
• 8. Choose Light Colors & Reflective Finishes
• 9. Maximize Small Bathroom Storage Ideas Without Clutter
• 10. Try a Minimalist Small Bathroom Approach
• Bonus: Budget-Friendly DIY Small Bathroom Remodel Tips
• How I Make a Very Small Bathroom Feel Luxurious
• Final Thoughts on Very Small Bathroom Ideas

1. Optimize Your Small Bathroom Layout Ideas First

Before choosing tile or paint, I always focus on the small bathroom layout ideas that will make the biggest impact.

If you’re working with a 5×7 bathroom layout, shifting the vanity or opting for a corner sink bathroom idea can instantly free up walking space. In narrow bathrooms, I recommend keeping all plumbing along one wall to create a streamlined look.

Pro Tips I Swear By:

• Replace a swinging door with a pocket door bathroom design.
  
• Use a sliding door for small bathroom layouts.
  
• Install a wall mounted toilet small bathroom solution to free up floor space.
  

The key? Function first. Decor second.

2. Choose a Floating Vanity for a Compact Bathroom

One of my favorite space saving bathroom ideas is installing a floating vanity small bathroom design.

Why it works:

• Exposes more floor space
  
• Makes the room feel airy
  
• Adds modern appeal
  

Pair it with under sink storage ideas like pull-out organizers or hidden drawers to keep clutter out of sight.

In extremely tiny bathrooms, I sometimes recommend a slim console sink or even a corner-mounted unit. Every inch matters in a compact bathroom idea.

3. Install a Wall Mounted Toilet for Extra Space

A wall mounted toilet small bathroom setup is a game changer. The concealed tank saves inches, and those inches matter more than you think.

Beyond the spatial advantage, it also:

• Makes cleaning easier
  
• Creates a minimalist small bathroom look
  
• Adds contemporary appeal
  

If you’re going for modern small bathroom ideas, this upgrade alone elevates the entire space.

4. Use Large Mirrors to Make a Small Bathroom Look Bigger

If someone asks me how to make a small bathroom look bigger, my first answer is always: mirrors.

A large mirror small bathroom design reflects light and visually doubles the space. For even more impact:

• Try a wall to wall mirror bathroom installation.
  
• Combine it with bright lighting.
  
• Use light, reflective surfaces.
  

Mirrors are one of the simplest yet most powerful small bathroom decor ideas available.

5. Add Recessed Bathroom Shelves & Built-In Niches

Storage is usually the biggest challenge in a very tiny bathroom inspiration project.

Instead of bulky cabinets, I recommend:

• Recessed bathroom shelves
  
• Built in bathroom niches
  
• In-shower wall niches
  

These small bathroom storage ideas don’t eat up floor space. They use what’s already there — your walls.

For even more vertical efficiency, install over toilet storage solutions or open shelving that draws the eye upward.

6. Go Vertical With Tile and Storage

When designing a small bathroom aesthetic idea, I always think vertically.

Here’s why vertical design works:

• Makes ceilings appear taller
  
• Enhances narrow bathroom layout proportions
  
• Creates a more dramatic look
  

Try:

• Vertical tile small bathroom layouts
  
• Tall cabinets for vertical storage bathroom
  
• Floor-to-ceiling tile for a seamless finish
  

Vertical design tricks are underrated but incredibly effective.

7. Use Glass Showers to Open Up the Space

Bulky shower curtains can visually cut your bathroom in half.

Instead, I suggest:

• Glass shower small bathroom enclosures
  
• A frameless shower door small bathroom setup
  
• An open shower small bathroom layout
  

This works especially well in small bathroom with walk in shower designs. Clear glass removes visual barriers and makes everything feel expansive.

If your layout allows, removing the tub can free up precious square footage.

8. Choose Light Colors & Reflective Finishes

Color has a psychological impact on space.

For light color small bathroom designs, I recommend:

• Soft whites
  
• Light gray
  
• Pale beige
  
• Warm neutrals
  

A white small bathroom design paired with quartz or glossy tile reflects light beautifully.

This is one of the most affordable budget small bathroom ideas that instantly changes the vibe of the room.

9. Maximize Small Bathroom Storage Ideas Without Clutter

Storage doesn’t have to feel heavy.

Some of my go-to bathroom organizers for small spaces include:

• Slim rolling carts
  
• Magnetic organizers
  
• Drawer dividers
  
• Hidden medicine cabinets
  

For tight layouts, towel storage small bathroom solutions like ladder racks or hooks behind doors work wonders.

Smart organization turns a cramped bathroom into a calm retreat.

10. Try a Minimalist Small Bathroom Approach

Sometimes the best small bathroom makeover ideas involve doing less.

A minimalist small bathroom design focuses on:

• Clean lines
  
• Limited decor
  
• Neutral tones
  
• Functional accessories
  

Instead of filling the room with decor, choose one statement element:

• A bold mirror
  
• Textured tile
  
• Matte black hardware
  
• A floating shelf with greenery
  

When styling a small apartment bathroom idea, restraint creates elegance.

Bonus: Budget-Friendly DIY Small Bathroom Remodel Tips

Not every transformation needs a full renovation.

Here are some cheap small bathroom makeover ideas I’ve personally used:

• Swap out hardware and faucets.
  
• Replace outdated lighting with bright, modern fixtures.
  
• Add peel-and-stick tile for an instant update.
  
• Paint cabinets instead of replacing them.
  
• Install new mirrors for quick impact.
  

If you’re renting, there are plenty of renter friendly bathroom ideas like removable wallpaper and tension shelving.

Even small upgrades can feel like a tiny bathroom renovation idea when done intentionally.

How I Make a Very Small Bathroom Feel Luxurious

Luxury isn’t about size — it’s about detail.

To elevate a micro bathroom idea, I focus on:

• Consistent finishes
  
• Coordinated hardware
  
• Layered lighting
  
• High-quality textiles
  
• Clutter-free countertops
  

When done right, even a tiny house bathroom idea can feel spa-like and intentional.

Final Thoughts on Very Small Bathroom Ideas

Designing a very small bathroom isn’t about squeezing everything in — it’s about choosing wisely.

From space saving bathroom ideas like floating vanities and wall mounted toilets, to clever small bathroom storage ideas like recessed niches and vertical shelving, the right strategy transforms even the tightest layout.

If you remember one thing, let it be this:
Light, layout, and less clutter are your best friends.

With thoughtful planning, your small bathroom remodel ideas can turn a cramped space into a beautifully efficient retreat.