How to design the perfect small bathroom

Small bathrooms - a hinderance on design or the opportunity to play with space? As a homeowner, there is no reason why you should have to settle for sub-par decor. No matter how big your bathroom is, there are a multitude of ways to transform this room to create something you’ll be proud of. From choosing your fittings wisely to optimising on wall storage, we cover the key pointers you should consider when styling your bathroom.

Bath V Shower

There’s no denying that there is something alluring about a hot bubble bath at the end of the day. But we are obviously strong supporters of the shower. With the right water temperature, the perfect shower screen and a relaxing shower gel, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more relaxing environment to be in. If you’re looking to save on wasted floor space, consider replacing baths with showers. Not only will you be able to make the most of your small bathroom but you’ll also reduce water and heating bills at the same time. 

The Shower Lab View 05 - Bathroom design by Malibu Bathroom & Kitchens Ltd

The Shower Lab View 05 - Bathroom design by Malibu Bathroom & Kitchens Ltd

Walk-In or Slider Showers

While we’re on the topic of showers, the right design can free up an abundance of floor space. Slider shower screens, such as our View 30, features a glass door fixed on a top and button rail. This glides in front of a fixed panel, taking up no extra space open as it does closed. If you’re even more strapped for space, Walk-In shower screens like our View 01 allow you to create miniature wet rooms. They offer a barely-there look that is minimal, modern and ideally suited to smaller bathrooms. 

The Shower Lab Walk-In Space - Bathroom design by SB Concepts

The Shower Lab Walk-In Space - Bathroom design by SB Concepts

Wall-Mounted Taps and Basins

One of the best tips you’ll find when it comes to small bathroom design is to reduce floor clutter as much as possible. This gives the illusion of space but also offers more unique opportunities for temporary storage (think woven baskets stocked with towels, for example). Opt for wall-mounted taps and basins that sit at the perfect level for you and all the family to use. There are both classic and traditional options available, such as these Landmark Industrial ones from Samuel Heath or these Classic mixer taps from Lefroy Brooks. So, you’re sure to find a style that suits your desired decor. 

Image Credit: Perrin and Rowe via Pinterest

Image Credit: Perrin and Rowe via Pinterest

Awkward Corners

You know that nook in the corner of your small bathroom that causes you nothing but aggravation. The one that seems too small to put a unit in and is an annoyingly pointless waste of space. Turn this around and make it one of the most useful places in the room. Work with a local carpenter who can craft you bespoke shelves to these exact specifications. Or, order a selection of different sized boxes and see which ones work. Rails are also very versatile, especially if they can be adjusted in length. Spend some time on Pinterest finding the awkward corner storage solution that works best for you.  

Photo credit: Architecture and Home Decor via Pinterest

Photo credit: Architecture and Home Decor via Pinterest

Tiles and Colour Pallets 

We’re never ones to put interior design into a box. Your home should look exactly as you envisioned. However, we couldn’t talk about small bathroom design without going over one popular rule of thumb - opt for lighter colours. There’s no argument that light tones help to give the illusion of space. This doesn’t, however, mean you have to take the safe route and stick with plain white. Think soft marble tiles, pastel pinks or lighter woods. Equally, if you’ve chosen a simple colour for your tiles, consider challenging the norm with different shapes. Art Deco styles are a huge trend for 2020 - think fish scale or hexagonal shapes. Even in the most demure colours, these allow you to put a stamp on your bathroom easily. 

Photo Credit: West One Bathrooms via Instagram

Photo Credit: West One Bathrooms via Instagram


If you’re still stuck for small bathroom design, pop over to our Pinterest page where we’ve collated our favourite looks into one board. Alternatively, we are fortunate enough to work with many talented and experienced bathroom designers through our partner showrooms. Their ability to work to specific briefs and craft exquisite bathrooms is one of the reasons many homeowners rely on their skills every single day. To find your closest The Shower Lab partner, visit our website here.