Creative ideas for SMALL BATHROOMS

Savvy storage ideas, clever layouts and smart features are just some of our top tips for bijou spaces

Invest in a slimline storage trolley

Keep essentials such as towels and toiletries on a neat cart that can be wheeled from basin to shower to bath so you won’t need to double up on supplies or storage space. Choose a slimline design that can be tucked out of the way when not in use.

Mix and match materials

Make a feature of your basin by matching it to your walls. Here a stunning smooth marble covers the top half of the wall and meets a textured concrete below. The basin sits on a block of the same marble, which cleverly ties the two materials together. A well-positioned shelf adds to the linear look and provides additional space for accessories.

‘SEMI-PEDESTAL BASINS ARE THE PERFECT SOLUTION IF YOU WANT TO SAVESPACEWITHOUT EXPOSING PIPEWORK’ FAYE FOY, brand expert at Burlington

Make it look bigger with an oval bath

Don’t shy away from incorporating a freestanding bath in a small bathroom. An oval bath cuts corners to boost the impression of space. A shallow shelf to hide waste pipes is also handy for adding an extra surface to display bath salts, potted bathroom plants and more.

Add a false wall

It might seem counterintuitive in a small space, but building out a half-height false wall will mean you can hide all the ugly soil and water pipes needed for the loo while creating a handy shelf for accessories too. Once tiled, you’ll never know it wasn’t always there!

Work in wall-mounted storage furniture

Wall-hung units are ideal for bathroom storage, due to their fuss-free, streamlined look. They come in a wide range of sizes, materials and colours, so you can create a semi-bespoke feature that best suits your space.

Opt for a (faux) living wall

Bring the outside in with a living wall. It’s perhaps a little tricky to do with real plants, but a panel of faux foliage will give the same stunning effect and is easier to maintain.

Use mirrors to open up the room

Hang a large mirror (or two or three) over your basin to bounce the natural light around and make the whole room feel larger. You’ll be surprised at how much a mirror can open up a space – it’s the number one trick interior stylists use to create this effect. Go big, go bold and make a statement.

‘EXAMINING YOUR SPACE FULLY BEFORE YOU START IS KEY - IT’S NEVER ONE SIZE FITS ALL WHEN IT COMES TO BATHROOM DESIGN’ NIGEL PALMER, marketing director at Perrin & Rowe

Go grand with a panelled effect

Create a period vibe in a small bathroom with walls covered in a panelled effect. Simple portrait panels are an easy way to add character. For a more ornate look, try a ribbed texture - or combine two styles for added interest. Dark colours will also work well to make a small space feel cosier.

‘KEEP THE LOO IN THE SAME PLACE IF POSSIBLE,ASMOVING THE SOIL STACK CAN BE A COSTLY JOB’ HOLLY WALSH, features editor

Make the most of your wall space

In this luxe bathroom, a shower over the bath maximises the compact space, while fixing the radiator to the opposite wall means bath towels are within easy reach. The brass hardware and marble-look tiles combine for a high-end look.

Select a versatile floating vanity

A wall-mounted vanity with clear floor space beneath will make your room feel less boxed in. Opt for a style with lots of storage. Abovecounter basins and gold hardware give this scheme a spa-hotel feel.