Having a small bathroom doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or function. With some clever design tricks and space-saving solutions, small bathrooms can be just as stylish and functional as larger ones. Here are some tips for creating a beautiful and efficient small bathroom with a shower.
Choosing the Right Layout
The layout of your small bathroom is key to maximizing the available space. Here are some of the most effective layouts for small bathrooms:
Corner Shower
Installing a corner shower utilizes the corners of the room, opening up floor space. Glass shower doors, as opposed to curtains, also give the illusion of a more spacious shower.
Shower Over the Toilet
Stacking the shower area over the toilet is an excellent space-saving solution. Just be sure the toilet is properly sealed and waterproofed.
Floating Vanity
A floating vanity mounted on the wall creates the illusion of more floor space in a small bathroom. Dual flush toilets and wall-hung sinks also free up precious floor area.
Doors and Walls
Consider pocket doors, bi-fold doors or curtains instead of swing doors to limit the amount of space doors require. Also, removable shower walls can make the shower and rest of the bathroom feel more open.
Choosing Small Fixtures and Features
From toilets and sinks to storage and lighting, the right compact fixtures and features can make a small bathroom efficient.
Toilets
Compact elongated toilets, corner toilets and wall-hung toilets are ideal for small bathrooms. Dual flush toilets also conserve water.
Sinks
Vessel sinks, wall-hung sinks and pedestal sinks with a smaller footprint maximize space.
Showers
Showers under 40″ wide and narrow shower heads make small showers feel more spacious.
Storage
Install shelving, medicine cabinets, built-in niches and cabinets for concealed storage. Use the area over and around the toilet for extra storage.
Lighting
Sconces, recessed lighting and natural light give the illusion of a larger space. Mirrors also help bounce light around.
Flooring
Small floor tile and reflective surfaces like subway tile make spaces appear larger. Matte floor finishes also enhance space.
Smart Storage Solutions
Storage is essential for any bathroom, but especially in a small space. These storage solutions help keep small bathrooms organized.
Medicine Cabinets
Recessed and surface-mounted medicine cabinets provide concealed storage behind the mirror. To save space, choose a cabinet with adjustable shelves.
Wall Niches
Cut into tiled walls or installed between studs, wall niches create space for bath products and accessories.
Floating Shelves
Mounted on walls, floating shelves add storage without taking up floor space. Choose waterproof materials like glass, metal and marble.
Under Sink Storage
Use every inch under the bathroom sink with rollout trays, drawer organizers and door caddies for extra storage.
Slim Storage Tower
A tower next to the toilet with shelves and drawers is perfect for towels and toiletries.
Space-Saving Vanities
Vanities with vertical storage in the drawers are ideal for small bathrooms. Drawers maximize space versus under-sink cabinets.
Illusion-Enhancing Mirrors
Strategically placed mirrors in a small bathroom can nearly double the sense of space. Here’s how to use them:
- Hang a large mirror opposite the shower to make the room feel larger.
- Use mirrored medicine cabinets for storage and the reflective effect.
- Place mirrors on the wall behind sinks to expand the area.
- Position tall, thin mirrors vertically to draw the eye up and make ceilings seem higher.
- Add an angled mirror in the corner to reflect more light.
Small Yet Functional Bathroom Ideas
Don’t think you have to cram a small bathroom full of stuff. By keeping the decor minimalist, you can enhance the feeling of open space.
Stick to the Essentials
Only include the absolute must-have items in a small bathroom. Too many accessories and knickknacks make the space feel cluttered.
Multipurpose Furnishings
Choose sinks, vanities and storage that serve double duty, like a sink that doubles as counter space.
Limit Color Scheme
Stick to one main color and add pops of color with towels, soap dishes and artificial greenery. Keeping the palette simple prevents visual clutter.
Sufficient Lighting
Well-lit rooms appear larger. Use recessed lighting, LED strips and sconces for full illumination in a small bathroom.
Mirrored Backsplashes
Behind sinks and on walls, mirrored backsplashes practically double the sense of space.
Glass Shower Doors
Clear glass shower doors expand the feel of a bathroom better than shower curtains. Etched glass adds privacy without sacrificing light.
Remove Clutter
Only keep out the bathroom essentials you use daily. Store other items in medicine cabinets, drawers and cabinets.
Design Inspiration for Small Bathrooms with Showers
If you’re remodeling or decorating a tiny bathroom, check out these stunning small bathrooms with showers. They provide beautiful inspiration for creating a functional space.
Spa-Like Neutrals
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The neutral color palette and natural stone accents in this small bathroom make it feel tranquil and spa-like. The glass corner shower features a seat and bench for relaxation.
Vintage Industrial

Exposed pipes, subway tile and vintage signs lend an urban vibe to this small industrial bathroom. The walk-in shower features glass brick walls to let in natural light.
Scandinavian White

The clean white color scheme in this small bathroom achieves a minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic. The glass shower enclosure and vertical tiles maintain the sleek style.
Modern Elegance

This elegant small bathroom features a luxurious glass shower with bronze details. The marble accents and sconce lighting create modern appeal.
Bohemian Chic

The wood elements, greenery, and earthy tile give this small bathroom a natural bohemian feel. The glass shower enclosure provides continuity for the rustic look.
FAQs About Small Bathrooms with Showers
Still have questions about designing a functional and beautiful small bathroom with a shower? This FAQ covers some commonly asked questions.
How can I make a small bathroom with shower feel bigger?
Use glass shower doors,Hang mirrors opposite the shower, Install wall-hung sinks and toilets, Use lighter colors on walls, floor and ceiling, Add recessed lighting.
What type of sink is best for a small bathroom?
Vessel, pedestal and wall-hung sinks have a small footprint to save space in a small bathroom.
Should I get a shower curtain or door for my small bathroom?
Clear glass shower doors help small bathrooms feel more open. Shower curtains take up additional space when open.
Where should I put towels in a small bathroom?
Install towel hooks, rails, ladders or shelving on walls rather than taking up floor space. Floating shelves are great options.
How can I add storage to my small bathroom?
Use a floor-to-ceiling narrow tower, under-sink drawers and trays, wall-hung cabinetry, floating shelves, and medicine cabinets.
Final Thoughts on Small Yet Functional Bathrooms
It’s completely achievable to have a beautiful and efficient small bathroom with a shower. Focus on the layout, take advantage of compact fixtures and creative storage solutions. Illusion-enhancing mirrors also go a long way in a tiny bathroom. limit clutter and stick to only the essentials.
With strategic design choices like a corner shower, floating vanity, wall-hung toilet and smart storage, small bathrooms can function just as well as larger spaces. Use glass doors instead of shower curtains to open up floor space as well. The ideas here prove you don’t have to sacrifice style or comfort, even in the smallest bathrooms.
So don’t feel limited by a small footprint. There are so many possibilities to make small bathrooms both functional and breathtaking. With inventive fixtures and furnishes tailored for tight spaces, you can create a small bathroom that looks and feels so much larger.
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