How to Make a Small Bathroom Look Bigger
Updated: Feb. 10, 2023Just because you have a small bathroom doesn't mean you can't be creative and smart!
Use the Same Color for Your Walls and Ceiling
Create the illusion of more space by choosing the same color for your walls and ceiling. Avoid a white ceiling mismatched with a dark wall color, which will make the ceiling appear lower. Fewer transitions make the space appear bigger. Using extended light fixtures over medicine cabinets helps create a bigger bathroom look too, since overhead lighting in bathrooms with low ceilings shrinks the space.
Photo: Courtesy of Young House Love
Avoid Patterned Wallpaper
Patterned wallpaper may appeal to your funky side, or perhaps you’re envisioning a serene space filled with rose petals on the walls, but if your aim is to make your small bathroom look bigger, you should avoid such designs. Patterned wallpaper makes a space seem even tinier. Not sure how to remove the wallpaper you already have? We’ve got you covered!
Take Advantage of Mirrors
Mirrors are not only functional, they add an elegant design touch while also creating the illusion of more space, especially in a small bathroom. The mirror reflects all the light in the room, while also reflecting other parts of the room. If you have a window in your bathroom, try to be strategic by placing your mirror so it reflects the natural light. Check out this impressive DIY mirror frame using glass tiles.
Limit the Small Accessories
It should go without saying that clutter can wreak havoc on a small bathroom. Even if you’re organized, too many shelves or too many accessories looks busy and crowded. Use one decorative accessory instead, especially one that doubles for plenty of functionality. Here’s how to make a super-simple bath cabinet.
Expand the Ceiling
A genius way to create the illusion of more space in your small bathroom is to make your ceiling look raised. You can do this by installing a crown molding around the ceiling and painting it the same color as the ceiling. If you want to give crown molding a try, here’s how to install it.
Install a Table-Mounted Vessel Sink and Wall Mounted Faucet
Make your small bathroom feel bigger by installing a table-mounted vessel sink and wall mounted faucet.
Here’s everything you need to know to DIY this handsome project.
Match the Floor and Shower Tiles
That streamlined look can be used for more than just the walls and ceiling. By covering your small bathroom’s floor with tile continues into the shower, it creates the illusion that the space is bigger than it actually is. Check out this small bathroom remodel for more inspiration.
Hang a Picture That Looks Like a Window
An easy and creative way to create the illusion of more space in your small bathroom is to hang a picture of nature. It could be an archway, or even a photograph of the view out of a real window.
When your real windows are dirty, here’s how to clean them like a pro.
Photo: CanvasItUp
Install a Wall-Hung Toilet
If your bathroom is truly tiny, installing a wall-hung toilet is a great option to create more space. Simply giving the eye more floor space creates the illusion that the bathroom is bigger. Check out these expert tips for buying a toilet, if you need some advice!