How to Design a Bathroom That Feels Bigger Than It Is
Designing a small bathroom doesn’t mean settling for cramped or cluttered. With the right layout, vanity choice, and visual tricks, you can make any bathroom feel open, bright, and modern — no expansion needed. At BATHUSA, we specialize in vanities and design tips that maximize every square inch. Here’s how to pull it off.
1. Choose a Floating or Slim-Profile Vanity
Wall-mounted (floating) vanities create the illusion of more space by exposing the floor underneath. This opens up the room visually and physically, especially in bathrooms under 50 sq ft.
Bonus: Many floating vanities include built-in drawers and integrated sinks, so you’re not sacrificing function for space.
2. Use a Light Color Palette
White, light gray, soft beige, and pale wood tones reflect more light and make the room feel larger. Stick with light finishes on your vanity, wall tiles, and paint to keep the space open and airy.
3. Pick the Right Mirror
A large, frameless mirror can double the visual depth of the room. Round mirrors add softness, while medicine cabinets offer storage without bulk. Consider a mirror with built-in LED lighting for a sleek, clean look.
4. Extend the Vanity to the Wall (or Float It)
Installing a vanity flush against one wall eliminates awkward gaps and makes the room feel more seamless. In contrast, floating it slightly off-center in a long bathroom can create more breathing room and balance.
5. Add Vertical Storage
Don’t fight for floor space — go up! Floating shelves, wall-mounted towel bars, and over-the-toilet cabinets add storage without closing in the room. Pair these with a clean vanity base to avoid a cluttered look.
6. Use Large Floor Tiles and Narrow Grout Lines
Incorporating larger tiles with minimal grout lines reduces visual noise, which makes a small bathroom feel more expansive. Coordinate the vanity color with the flooring for a cohesive flow.
Final Thoughts
Small bathrooms can still feel spacious, stylish, and comfortable with the right design strategy. From floating vanities to smart mirror placement, every detail counts. Browse the BATHUSA collection for compact, space-saving vanities that make a big impact in small rooms.
👉 Shop Space-Saving Vanities at BATHUSA
Written by BATHUSA | Updated July 2025