You're not alone if you struggle with a small bathroom, not knowing how to choose colors, where to put things, or what to include in a complete bathroom renovation. Many homeowners need help with small spaces. According to Mike Whitfield, luxury interiors expert with LUSSO, size doesn’t have to be a limiting factor. "With thoughtful design, small spaces can be incredibly chic," he says. "To create a luxurious ambiance within a confined bathroom space, it’s important to hone in on the finer details."
While bathroom trends also apply to smaller rooms, there are some elements that work better in tighter spaces. So, before hiring an interior designer, check out what top professionals are seeing as current trends in the industry that work well in small spaces. We've got ideas for finding storage space, choosing colors, using lighting strategically, and more.
12 Recommended Small Bathroom Trends for 2024:
1. Biophilic design
Including natural elements in the home is the foundation of biophilic design. "People are looking for ways to find peace," says Jodi Peterman, CEO of Elizabeth Erin Designs, a nationwide design company. By including creamy, warm whites, wood tones, and plants you can bring natural elements to a space that can help you relax despite the chaos in the world.
2. Modest modernism
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Image by Arsight
Whitfield suggests a "minimaluxe" style for a small bathroom. "This style seamlessly combines the clean lines of Japandi simplicity with opulent materials, creating a harmonious balance between minimalism and luxury," he says. Pairing a subtle, tranquil palette with pared-back furnishings creates a timeless and sophisticated appeal.
3. Veiny marble
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Image by Letter Four, Inc.
According to Kaja Bolton, a realtor associate at Christie’s International Real Estate Group in Northern New Jersey, many homeowners include veiny marble in their tiny bathrooms. It counts as one of the opulent materials Whitfield suggests and can be used in small ways to keep costs down. "It can be incorporated in trim, sinks, everywhere. It's pricey but beautiful," says Bolton.
4. Frameless shower screens
In small bathrooms, you want to open the space as much as possible. That’s why a sleek, modern frameless shower screen is a top trend this year. By having a screen without a chunky frame, it becomes seamless, clean, and transparent. There are fixed options, or depending on the space, flexible ones that can open and close like a door.
5. Oversized mirrors
Image by Brittany Lyons Interiors
Another trend to enlarge a space is oversized mirrors. "Up to the ceiling, even," says Peterman. "Mirrors bounce the available light, making the room look open and brighter." She recommends pairing the mirror with sconce lighting on either side and recessed lighting in the ceiling.
6. Arches and curves
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Image by Kerrie Kelly Design Lab
According to Petermen, trends are moving away from straight lines and angles to something softer. She says arch-topped mirrors, windows, and doorways, as well as curvy designs, bring in a softer side. Bolton agrees. "Arches give a more organic, natural feel."
7. Floating fixtures
"Opting for a wall-hung vanity unit is an easy way to create the illusion of space by keeping your floor clear," says Whitfield. Commodes also come in floating models without space-hogging tanks. In addition to enlarging the space, floating fixtures make cleaning easier.
8. Multi-functional toilet
"Bidets are making a comeback," says Bolton. But some bathrooms are too small to include both a toilet and a bidet. For that, she recommends a multi-functional unit that operates as both. These smart toilets include other features to make cleaning and maintenance easier.
9. Mixed metals
Image by Letter Four, Inc.
Incorporating metals like brushed brass and bold chrome elevates the functionality of elements like taps and shower sets to things of beauty. "Metals are set to take center stage as statement accessories in contemporary bathroom design," says Whitfield. Combining the warmth of brass with a touch of chrome gives the space an elegant sophistication that's also comforting. "Expect these metals to gain popularity, seamlessly intertwining functionality with aesthetics."
10. Wall nooks
Image by Letter Four, Inc.
The space found inside the walls is perfect for storage. One example is a wall nook in the shower, but you can also find mirrored cabinets that recess into the wall. "These aren't like the old-time medicine cabinets from when I was a kid," says Peterman. "They have gorgeous, ornate mirrors and are easier to open." You can also have a builder include wall nooks outside the shower, creating space for open shelving.
11. Open shelving
Peterman says that bathroom closets take up too much space, especially when the door opens into the room. She recommends turning that space into open shelving to eliminate the door and make a bathroom appear larger. "It doesn't have to be an eyesore," she says. "Open shelves can become a design element with cute baskets, folded towels, and a little organization."
12. Backlit mirrors
A backlit mirror creates a minimalist touch to modern bathrooms. Not only does it serve as ambient and task lighting, but also removes the need to have wall sconces that can make the space feel somewhat cluttered. It also leaves wall space for shelving if you're tight on room for storage.
Carol J Alexander is a home remodeling industry expert for Fixr.com. For more than 15 years as a journalist and content marketer, her in-depth research, interviewing skills, and technical insight have ensured she provides the most accurate and current information on a given topic. Before joining the Fixr team, her personal clients included leaders in the building materials market like Behr Paint Company, CertainTeed, and Chicago Faucet, and national publications like This Old House and Real Homes.