Small bathrooms are common in many Libertyville homes—especially older houses with traditional floor plans. But limited square footage doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort, style, or functionality. With the right design choices, a small bathroom can feel open, efficient, and elevated.
Here are our top space-maximizing ideas to help you get the most out of your bathroom remodel.
The vanity often takes up the most real estate in a small bathroom. Smart upgrades include:
Floating vanities - They keep the floor visible, which makes the room feel larger and allows for extra storage baskets underneath.
Narrow-depth vanities - Perfect for tight layouts, these provide full functionality without blocking walkways.
Corner vanities- Ideal for awkward floor plans where every inch counts.
If bathtub use isn’t essential, converting your tub to a walk-in shower can instantly open up the room. Consider features like:
Color affects how spacious a room feels. In small bathrooms, lighter tones work best. Top color choices we recommend include:
Pairing light colors with high-contrast accents—like matte black hardware or walnut shelves—adds sophistication without making the room feel closed in.
When floor space is limited, maximizing vertical storage is your best option. Keeping clutter off the counter helps create a clean open space. Some of these storage solutions may include:
It might seem counterintuitive, but larger tiles can actually make a small bathroom look more spacious. Fewer grout lines create a cleaner, uninterrupted visual flow. Some larger options may include:
Pro tip: Carry the same tile from the floor into the shower for a seamless, more expansive appearance.
Traditional bathroom doors swing into the space, often making an already cramped room feel even smaller. A pocket door or barn-style sliding door frees up valuable floor area and adds a modern design element.
Mirrors are one of the most effective tools for making a small bathroom feel bigger. Some great options are:
Bulky fixtures overwhelm small spaces. Choosing sleek, modern designs helps the room feel lighter and less crowded. Consider a few of these design elements:
Minimalist doesn’t mean plain—it means functional, clean, and elegant.
Finally, even the smartest layout can feel cramped if the countertops are cluttered. Incorporating organizers and intentional storage solutions will help maintain a tidy, spacious feel. A few of our favorite organization pieces include:
A well-designed small bathroom can transform the way your home feels—adding both beauty and functionality. Whether you're looking for a modern refresh, a space-saving redesign, or a full renovation, our BDS team can help bring your vision to life.