23 Small Bathroom Makeover Ideas To Help Your Bathroom Feel Bigger

Turn Your Tiny Bathroom Into A Spacious Oasis!

Small bathroom remodel example

Do you ever feel like your bathroom is shrinking? Ever wish you had more space to move around?

In this post, you’ll discover 23 brilliant small bathroom makeover ideas Charlotte homeowners want.

By the end of this read, you’ll have practical tips to use for your Charlotte bathroom remodel, turning it into a more spacious and stylish sanctuary.


23 Small Bathroom Makeover Ideas For Charlotte Homeowners

1. Paint The Walls

One of the easiest and most impactful small bathroom makeover ideas is to paint the walls.

Using high-gloss paint can help reflect light, making your tiny bathroom feel brighter and more spacious.

When painting a small bathroom, focusing on light colors can create the illusion of a bigger bathroom by making the walls recede visually.

Consider colors like stark white, peachy nude, sea green, subtle pink, or earthy green. These shades not only brighten the room but also add a touch of elegance.


2. Ditch The Curtains

Curtains can make a small space feel even smaller.

Instead, opt for lighter window treatments like plantation shutters or sheer silk/linen curtains. These options allow natural light to filter through while still providing privacy.

In small bathrooms, utilizing natural light is crucial for creating an airy and open atmosphere. Light window treatments can help achieve this effect without compromising on style or privacy.


3. Replace Cabinets With Open Shelving

Cabinets can take up valuable wall space in a small bathroom.

Switching to open shelving can make the space feel lighter and more open.

Use natural wood shelves for a minimalist look, or paint floating shelves in bold colors like blush or emerald for a pop of color.

Open storage solutions not only save space but also provide an opportunity to display decorative items or essential toiletries neatly.


4. Restain Or Paint Cabinets

If you’re not ready to part with your cabinets, consider giving them a facelift. Restaining or painting your cabinets can transform the look of your small bathroom.

Opt for lighter oak, pine, classic gray, or Sedona red stains.

Alternatively, paint your cabinets in soft grays or light blues to keep the space feeling open and bright.


5. Use Multiple Mirrors

Mirrors are a great way to make a small bathroom appear larger.

Incorporate multiple mirrors of varying shapes and sizes to create depth and reflect more light. Place a mirror above the sink, another near the shower, or even consider mirroring an entire wall.

This technique can double the visual space, making your small bathroom feel much bigger.

Plus, it adds a touch of sophistication and a modern look to the design.


6. Install A Backlit Mirror

A backlit mirror can make a small bathroom feel like a luxurious spa.

The LED lighting behind the mirror adds a soft glow, eliminating shadows and creating a serene space. This is an excellent way to add ambient lighting without taking up valuable wall space.

Plus, the backlighting highlights the mirror, turning it into a focal point and enhancing the overall aesthetic of the room.


7. Replace Shower Curtains With Glass Doors

Ditching your shower curtain for a glass door is one of the best small bathroom makeover ideas.

Glass doors eliminate visual barriers, making the room feel more open and spacious. They also allow natural light to flow throughout the bathroom, which is particularly beneficial in small spaces.


8. Swap The Tub For A Shower

If you’re looking to save space, consider swapping out your tub for a walk-in shower.

Showers take up less floor space than tubs and can make your small bathroom feel much larger.

Opt for a corner shower to maximize floor space and create a more efficient layout.


9. Change The Flooring

Updating the flooring can make a significant difference in your bathroom remodel.

Budget-friendly options like vinyl can provide a fresh, new look without breaking the bank.

Alternatively, bold graphic tiles can add visual interest and style.

When choosing flooring for a small bathroom, avoid dark colors that can make the space feel cramped. Instead, opt for light, bright colors to create the illusion of more space.


10. Upgrade Lighting Fixtures

Good lighting is essential in small bathrooms.

Swap out old, outdated fixtures for modern ones that emit a warm glow. This can help make the space feel more inviting and less claustrophobic.

Consider installing sconces on either side of the mirror for even lighting that reduces shadows.

Task lighting in the shower and ambient lighting for the entire room can also enhance the overall functionality and aesthetic.


11. Replace The Sink

Consider installing a corner sink or a small pedestal sink to free up counter space in your small bathroom.

A bamboo basin or a patterned ceramic bowl can also add a touch of elegance and visual interest. These options not only save space but also create a unique focal point in your bathroom, making it feel more customized and stylish.


12. Choose Wall-Mounted Faucets

Wall-mounted faucets are a clever solution for small bathrooms.

By mounting the faucet on the wall above the sink, you free up valuable counter space. This design choice also adds a modern look to your bathroom, making it appear more streamlined and less cluttered.


13. Upgrade Drawer Pulls And Hardware

Small changes can make a big difference.

Replacing outdated drawer pulls, towel hangers, and toilet paper holders with new hardware can refresh the look of your bathroom without a major overhaul.

Choose sleek, contemporary designs to complement your bathroom’s style and add a touch of sophistication.


14. Install Wall-Mounted Toilets

Wall-mounted toilets are an excellent way to save space in a small bathroom.

By installing the toilet tank within the wall, you free up floor space and create a more open feel.


15. Utilize Tight Corners

Make the most of every inch by utilizing tight corners in your bathroom.

A small walk-in shower can be placed in a corner, freeing up more space for other fixtures.

Adding a stand-alone tub in another corner can create a spa-like atmosphere while optimizing the layout of your small bathroom space.


16. Add Vertical Storage

Maximize your bathroom’s storage capacity by going vertical.

Add shelves above the toilet, at the end of the bathtub, or around the vanity mirror.

Recessed shelves are another great option, as they provide extra space without protruding into the room.


17. Use Curbless Showers And Continual Flooring

Eliminate the curb around your shower to create a seamless look.

Continuous flooring that extends into the shower area can make your bathroom feel larger and more cohesive. This design choice is both practical and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the overall flow of the space.


18. Install Smaller Vanities

In a small bathroom, a large vanity or double vanity can overwhelm the room. Opt for a compact vanity that offers necessary storage without taking up too much space.

Floating vanities are a great option as they free up floor space and give the illusion of a bigger bathroom.


19. Use Pedestal Sinks

Pedestal sinks are perfect for small bathrooms. They take up less floor and counter space, making the room feel more open.

Plus, they come in various styles, allowing you to find one that matches your bathroom’s decor while providing a functional and stylish solution.


20. Add Drawer Organizers

Drawer organizers help you keep toiletries and other necessities in order, making the most of your storage. This simple addition can make your bathroom more functional and less cluttered, enhancing your overall experience.


21. Use Light Colors And Patterns

Choosing the right paint colors is crucial for making a small bathroom feel larger.

Light colors such as white, soft pastels, or muted patterns like marble tiles can create the illusion of more space. These shades reflect light better and make the room feel brighter.

Additionally, consider using light-colored wall tiles or adding contrasting color combinations with tiled shower niches and darker floors to add depth and visual interest without overwhelming the space.


22. Replace Swing Doors With Sliding Or Pocket Doors

Traditional swing doors can consume a lot of space in a small bathroom.

Opt for sliding or pocket doors instead. These doors save valuable floor space and add a modern look to your bathroom.

They are an excellent solution for maximizing the limited space, allowing for a more functional and efficient layout.


23. Upgrade To Modern Fixtures

Outdated fixtures can make your bathroom look tired and cramped.

Upgrading to modern, sleek designs can instantly refresh the space.

Consider new faucets, showerheads, and lighting fixtures that complement the overall style of your bathroom. Modern fixtures not only enhance the aesthetic but also improve the functionality, making your bathroom more enjoyable to use.


Planning Your Small Bathroom Makeover

A successful small bathroom remodel starts with careful planning. Understanding the type of bathroom you have and assessing the needs of the users are essential steps.

Identify who will be using the bathroom regularly.

Is it a master bathroom, a guest bathroom, or a kid’s bathroom? Each type of bathroom has different requirements. For instance, a master bathroom might need more storage and luxurious fixtures, while a kid’s bathroom should focus on durability and practicality.

Assessing these needs will help you prioritize your remodel and ensure that the final design meets your specific requirements.


Choosing The Right Colors And Materials

The colors and materials you choose can significantly impact the feel and functionality of your small bathroom.

Paint Colors

Using light, soft hues for the walls can make a small room feel larger and more open. Consider adding a fresh coat of white paint or other bright colors to enhance the room’s brightness. Muted patterns like marble tiles can also add sophistication without making the space feel busy.

Flooring Options

Selecting the right bathroom flooring is essential in a small bathroom remodel. Large tiles can create a sense of more space, and luxury vinyl or porcelain tiles offer durability and style. Ensure the flooring complements the overall design and color scheme of the bathroom.

Tile Designs

Tiles can be used creatively on floors, walls, and backsplashes. Consider incorporating bathroom wall tiles that match the flooring to create a cohesive look. Choose designs that add visual interest without overwhelming the space.


Cost And Timeline Estimates

When planning a small bathroom remodel, it’s essential to consider the budget and timeline. The cost for a small bathroom remodel can be between $10,000 and $40,000, depending on the extent of the changes and the materials used.

Typically, the timeline for a complete bathroom makeover can be about 3 months, but a smaller remodel might be completed in just 2 months. Careful planning and budgeting can help ensure your remodel stays on track and within your financial limits.


Make Small Changes For A Big Impact With Portico

At Portico, we specialize in using small bathroom remodeling ideas to turn small bathrooms into stunning spaces that feel much larger. Our team of experts in Charlotte, NC, is ready to tackle your bathroom remodeling needs with creative and practical solutions.

Don’t let a tiny bathroom cramp your style. Fill out our contact form today, or give us a call to start your journey toward a more spacious and beautiful bathroom.

author avatar
Corey Shemtov