What Colours Make a Small Bathroom Look Bigger?

Matt Keane
November 17, 2023

Have you ever wondered how to make a small bathroom feel more spacious? Believe it or not, the choice of colour can have a huge impact. In this blog, we'll explore what colours can transform a cramped bathroom into one that feels more open and airy.

Whether you're planning a renovation or just a quick repaint, understanding the right colour palette is key. We'll guide you through the best colours that can visually expand the space of a small bathroom, creating the illusion of more room. From soothing pastels to bright, reflective hues, discover how to use colour to your advantage in a small bathroom setting.

Are you prepared to transform your tiny washroom into an open haven through the power of colour?

Maximising Space in a Small Bathroom

To maximise space in a small bathroom, we can consider using pedestal sinks, pocket doors, open shelves, clear glass, and multi-functional furniture.

Use of Pedestal Sinks

Pedestal sinks are a top choice for small bathrooms. They take up less room than a big vanity. It's the shape that does the trick. They are tall and thin, which gives more floor space to your bathroom.

Well, large floor spaces make your bathroom look bigger than it is! There's also room under the sink to put items like toilet paper or towels. This way, you do not need extra furniture for storage in your small space.

Pocket Doors

We recommend considering pocket doors for your small bathroom to maximise the available space. These doors slide into the walls, saving you valuable floor space that a traditional swinging door would take up.

In addition, with pocket doors, you can create a seamless and open look in your bathroom, making it feel larger and more spacious.

Additionally, pocket doors come in various designs and styles to suit different aesthetics, allowing you to add a touch of personalisation to your bathroom design while still optimising space.

Open Shelves

If you want to maximise space in your small bathroom, consider using open shelves. Open shelves can create a sense of openness and make the room feel bigger. They provide storage for towels, toiletries, and other items without taking up valuable floor space.

Furthermore, you can use them to display decorative items or keep everyday essentials easily accessible. By keeping the shelves organised and clutter-free, you can create an airy and spacious look in your small bathroom.

Clear Glass

Clear glass is a great choice for a small bathroom because it creates a sense of openness and allows light to flow through. It can make the space feel more expansive by visually extending the walls and enhancing the natural light.

Consequently, by using clear glass for shower doors or partitions, you can create a seamless look that doesn't interrupt the visual flow of the room. Additionally, installing open shelves with clear glass can add storage without adding visual clutter.

Therefore, clear glass is a simple yet effective design element that can help maximise space in your small bathroom.

Multi-Functional Furniture

In a small bathroom, using multi-functional furniture can be a great way to maximise space and keep things organised. Consider incorporating items like a vanity with built-in storage or a mirror cabinet that doubles as both a mirror and additional storage space for toiletries.

Another option is to choose a toilet with hidden cisterns, which saves much-needed floor space. By selecting furniture that serves more than one purpose, you can create an efficient and clutter-free environment in your small bathroom.

Choosing The Right Colour Scheme

When it comes to choosing the right colour scheme for your small bathroom, there are a few key options to consider. Bold dark colours can create a cosy and intimate feel, while soft greys provide a calming and serene atmosphere.

Despite the fact that light and dark contrast can add depth and dimension to the space, timeless monochrome designs offer an elegant and sophisticated look.

For those who prefer a touch of femininity, blush pink tones can bring a delicate and airy vibe to your small bathroom.

Bold, Dark Colours

Bold, dark colours can be a great choice for a small bathroom if you want to make a stylish statement and create the illusion of more space. While it may seem counterintuitive, dark colours like navy blue, deep grey, or even black can actually work well in small bathrooms.

These rich hues can add depth and drama to the space while making it feel larger and more luxurious. When using bold, dark colours in your bathroom, consider incorporating them as an accent wall or through accessories like towels or shower curtains.

Furthermore, this way, you can enjoy the benefits of these colours without overwhelming the entire space. So don't shy away from bold, dark colours; embrace their transformative power in your small bathroom!

Soft Greys

Soft greys are another excellent option for making a small bathroom look bigger. These light shades of grey create a calm and soothing atmosphere while visually expanding the space.

As well, soft greys, like pale blue or muted violet, have a cool undertone that reflects light and creates the illusion of more room. They work well with white fixtures and fittings to give your bathroom an airy and spacious feel.

Additionally, soft greys can also be paired with accents of pastel colours or metallic finishes to add depth and interest to the space without overwhelming it. So if you're looking for a versatile colour that makes your small bathroom appear larger, consider soft greys as part of your design scheme.

Light And Dark Contrast

Light and dark contrast can be a great strategy to make a small bathroom look bigger. By combining lighter and darker shades, you create depth and visual interest in the space. For example, you can have light-coloured walls with dark accents, like a bold mirror frame or cabinet handles.

So, this contrast draws the eye and gives the illusion of more space. Additionally, using lighter colours on larger surfaces like walls and floors while incorporating darker tones in smaller details can help create balance and make your bathroom feel more spacious.

Timeless Monochrome

One great colour scheme to consider for a small bathroom is timeless monochrome. This means using black and white shades throughout the space. The contrast between these two colours can create depth and give the illusion of more space.

Furthermore, you can use white for the walls, ceiling, and fixtures while incorporating black accents through accessories like towels, rugs, or even a vanity. Another option is to use black subway tiles on one wall as a focal point.

This classic colour combination never goes out of style and can make your small bathroom look sleek and sophisticated.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, choosing a timeless monochrome colour scheme has practical benefits too. White reflects light, making the room feel brighter and more spacious. Meanwhile, black adds depth and visual interest without overwhelming the space.

However, by keeping your bathroom decor in this simple yet effective colour palette, you can create an elegant and visually appealing environment that makes your small bathroom appear larger than it actually is.

Blush Pink

Blush pink is a great choice for making a small bathroom look bigger. This soft, soothing colour can create a sense of openness and tranquilly in the space. Blush pink reflects light well, helping to brighten up the room and make it feel more spacious.

It also pairs beautifully with white fixtures and accessories, creating an elegant and airy atmosphere. So if you want to add a touch of warmth and femininity to your small bathroom while also maximising its perceived size, consider using blush pink as your paint colour or incorporating it into your decor choices.

Design Tips to Make A Small Bathroom Look Bigger

To make a small bathroom look bigger, utilise natural light by keeping windows free of heavy coverings and using sheer curtains instead. Incorporate mirrors and reflective surfaces to create the illusion of more space.

On the other hand, streamline paint colours throughout the bathroom to avoid visual clutter. Consider opting for a feature wall or floor to draw the eye and add depth. Lastly, make use of vertical space with shelving or storage solutions to maximise storage without sacrificing square footage.

Utilising Natural Light

In a small bathroom, utilising natural light is key to creating a bright and airy atmosphere. By maximising the amount of sunlight that enters the space, you can make it feel larger and more open.

First, start by keeping your windows clean and unobstructed to allow as much light in as possible. Avoid heavy curtains or blinds that block out natural light. Instead, opt for sheer or translucent window coverings that still provide privacy while allowing sunlight to filter through.

Additionally, consider adding mirrors strategically to reflect light and create the illusion of more space. Place them opposite windows or on walls adjacent to windows to bounce the natural light around the room.

Incorporating Mirrors And Reflective Surfaces

Mirrors and reflective surfaces are great additions to a small bathroom to create the illusion of more space. By strategically placing mirrors, you can bounce light around the room and make it feel larger.

Consider installing a large mirror above the sink or vanity, or even covering an entire wall with mirrored tiles. This will not only reflect light but also add a touch of elegance to your bathroom.

Additionally, choose shiny fixtures and hardware, like chrome faucets or metallic accents, that will further enhance the reflective effect. With mirrors and reflective surfaces, you can transform your small bathroom into a bright and spacious oasis.

Streamlining Paint Colours

Choosing the right paint colours is crucial when trying to make a small bathroom appear bigger. Light and bright colours like white, crème, pastel blue, grey, and yellow are recommended because they reflect light and create a sense of spaciousness.

Beige, powder blue, teal, muted violet, canary yellow, and soft grey are also great choices. On the other hand, going bold with a dark colour scheme can make your small bathroom look stylish and bigger too.

Another trick is to opt for a fun accent wall that adds visual interest and creates the illusion of more space. By streamlining your paint colours in these ways, you can transform your small bathroom into a more open and airy oasis.

Opting For A Feature Wall Or Floor

We can make a small bathroom look bigger by opting for a feature wall or floor. This is an opportunity to add visual interest and create the illusion of more space. A bold accent wall with vibrant colours or unique patterns can draw the eye and distract from the small size of the room.

Alternatively, choosing a standout floor design, such as geometric tiles or natural stone, can give the impression of expansiveness. By focusing attention on these features, we can divert attention away from the limited dimensions of the bathroom.

Making Use of Vertical Space

We can make a small bathroom look bigger by utilising vertical space. This means using the walls to our advantage. We can install shelves or cabinets high up on the walls to store towels, toiletries, and other items.

Even more, hanging hooks or racks for towels can also help save floor space. Another option is to mount a medicine cabinet or mirror with storage above the sink. By taking advantage of vertical space, we free up valuable floor area and create the illusion of more room in our small bathroom.

Combining Style And Functionality

To combine style and functionality in a small bathroom, we can explore good storage solutions, incorporate natural textures, choose the right tile design, get creative with adding colour, and focus on small details that make a big impact.

Good Storage Solutions

In a small bathroom, good storage solutions are essential to keep the space organised and clutter-free. Utilising wall-mounted shelves or cabinets can help make use of vertical space, while vanity units with drawers provide ample storage for toiletries and towels.

Further, installing hooks or racks on the back of the door can also maximise space for hanging towels or robes. Additionally, baskets or bins can be used to store items neatly out of sight.

With proper storage solutions in place, you can create a functional and tidy bathroom that feels larger and more spacious.

Incorporating Natural Textures

To make a small bathroom feel bigger, incorporating natural textures can be a great idea. Consider using materials like wood or stone for your vanity countertop or flooring. These textures add depth and bring a sense of nature into the space, creating a more organic and open atmosphere.

You can also try adding plants or flowers to enhance the natural vibe in your bathroom. By incorporating these natural elements, you'll create a relaxing and spacious environment that will make your small bathroom feel larger than it actually is.

Choosing The Right Tile Design

When it comes to choosing the right tile design for your small bathroom, there are a few important factors to consider. First, opt for light-coloured tiles such as white or pastel shades.

These colours will reflect light and make the space feel bigger. Additionally, choose tiles that are larger in size, as they can create the illusion of more space. For added visual interest, consider using patterned or textured tiles on a feature wall or as an accent in the shower area.

Remember to keep the overall design cohesive by selecting tiles that complement the rest of your bathroom decor.

Creative Ways To Add Colour

In a small bathroom, adding colour can be a creative way to make the space feel more vibrant and inviting. One option is to incorporate colourful accessories like towels, rugs, or shower curtains that can easily be changed out whenever you want a new look.

Another idea is to paint one wall or choose a boldly patterned wallpaper as an accent wall to add visual interest without overwhelming the space. Adding pops of colour through artwork or plants can also bring life to your bathroom design.

Additionally, consider using colourful tiles for the floor or backsplash to create a focal point and inject personality into your small bathroom. By being strategic with where and how you add colour, you can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your small bathroom while making it appear larger in size.

Small Details That Make a Big Impact

In addition to choosing the right colour scheme and optimising space, there are small details that can make a big impact on making a small bathroom look bigger. Adding mirrors and reflective surfaces can create the illusion of more space by bouncing light around the room.

Streamlining paint colours throughout the bathroom, including trim and doors, can help create a cohesive and open feel. Opting for a feature wall or floor in a contrasting colour or pattern can add visual interest without overwhelming the space.

Furthermore, making use of vertical space through shelving or storage solutions can free up valuable floor area. Finally, paying attention to small details such as fixtures, hardware, and accessories that match the overall design theme can help tie everything together for a cohesive and visually pleasing small bathroom makeover.

Final Words!

Choosing the right colours can have a big impact on making a small bathroom look bigger. Light and bright shades like white, cream, pastel blue, and grey are great choices to create the illusion of space. Pale and cool colours also reflect light and make the bathroom feel more spacious. On the other hand, going bold with a dark colour scheme can add style and make the room appear larger.

So don't underestimate the power of colour when it comes to maximising your small bathroom! And if you're looking for expert guidance in your bathroom transformation, reach out to Build Pro. We have the expertise to ensure your space not only looks bigger but also feels absolutely stunning.

Need assisstance?

Contact Build Pro now and Get Free Advice & Quote For Your Home Improvement Project.
Contact BuildPro

Contact With Us Today!

Tell us about your home improvement project and our client manager Fidelma will contact you within 24 hours to discuss your project.

Check - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

Thank you

Please check your inbox to download your Free EBook!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
*FYI, parts of this blog post were drafted by artificial technlogy. But rest assured, it's been thoroughly researched, edited, reviewed and me & my team.

How to clone into other project?

  • Press "Ctrl + E" or "Cmd + E" in the Designer and enable "Select on-page element".

  • Search for the class named, "Cloneable Area".

  • Copy the element inside this container to your own project.

  • Rename the classes accordingly if they are clashing with your project.

  • Ensure custom code from the in-page setting has been copied into your project as well (if there's any).

  • 'Page Trigger' interaction can't be copied directly. You can only clone the whole project, or rebuild it.
    A simple trick to copy the 'Page Trigger' interaction into another project is as below:

    1. Create a dummy element.
    2. Apply any type of 'Element trigger' into the dummy element and select the 'Page Trigger' animation.
    3. Copy the dummy element with the animations applied into your new project.
    4. The animation should have been copied into your project and you can reapply the 'Page Trigger' animation into your project.

  • If you have further inquiry or need assistance, feel free to contact us.

  • Lastly, please do not copy this project and claim it as your own. We wish to continue sharing and giving to the community. In order to do so, we will need your cooperation and full support. Thank you very much,