How do you design a small bathroom so that it is both functional and elegant?

A small bathroom is a kind of constraint. When you take both practical and visual aspects into account, it’s definitely harder to design than larger rooms. However, modern, innovative solutions mean that even a small shower enclosure has its fans. It just needs to be well thought out.

There are plenty of alternative options. Instead of a traditional cabinet – a shower niche for toiletries, with dimensions tailored to the user’s preferences. Instead of a bath – a shower. Those are just a few examples.

But is a compact 80×80 cm enclosure comfortable? You’ll also find out about that later in the article. Read on!

Designing a small bathroom space

A small bathroom is common not only in older buildings, but also in modern apartment blocks, where the bathroom floor area is reduced to create larger living rooms or bedrooms. Because layout issues crop up so often, manufacturers of interior fittings offer standard ranges in non-standard sizes and shapes as well. Thanks to these, any bathroom that at first glance seems cramped and impossible to arrange can become not only functional, but also elegant and airy. Choosing the right sanitaryware and furniture plays a fundamental role here. Complementary elements include light colours, mirrors, strong lighting and wall-hung cabinets.

The never-ending battle in a small bathroom – shower or bath?

Often, due to constraints, it’s considered necessary to give up one of the options – the shower or the bath. A great solution that combines the benefits of both is a corner bath with a modern shower screen. Using one allows for different types of bathing and helps save space needed for the rest of the fittings. Another idea is baths compatible with basins, as well as walk-in showers (without a traditional tray). These are designed primarily for rooms with non-standard, awkward dimensions, as they allow for better space planning.

Shower tray without an enclosure

A popular choice is a shower tray with a curtain instead of an enclosure. Thanks to this, even when it’s very small (70×70 or 80×80), it doesn’t restrict the user’s freedom of movement as much as glass doors do. Another important plus is the possibility of placing it closer to the toilet and the basin. Unfortunately, an obvious drawback is how easily the floor can get splashed during showering.

A small bathroom with a shower enclosure

Another option is a bathroom with a shower enclosure. This solution, suited to slightly larger spaces, typically costs more but is also more convenient, as you no longer have to worry about splashing the floor. The most advantageous shapes are those with a rounded edge or a cut-off corner, as they provide more freedom of movement for the user, and parts for shower enclosures of this type are more often available off the shelf.

In small rooms it’s extremely hard to find space for a dream bath. A far more worthwhile option is to invest in a shower for a small bathroom. A compact enclosure can also be comfortable, functional and eye-catching. This is especially true when it has elegant transparent doors (sliding or bi-fold) and the tray is replaced with a floor-level drain.

A small bathroom doesn’t have to be boring!

We hope you now know how to design your sanctuary of relaxation and which shower will work best in a small bathroom. Beyond the aspects discussed above, opt for a bit of illusion. Instead of dark walls and a standard look, go for light, glossy tiles that visually enlarge the space, mirrors (including mirrored cabinets), wall-hung shelves, good lighting and interesting accessories. This will make your bathroom space wonderfully striking.

Letting go of unnecessary fittings and keeping things consistent with the rest of the home will let you introduce a touch of luxury, tailored to your own preferences.

Check out our products and create the bathroom of your dreams with us!