How to Make a Small Bathroom Feel Bigger (Without Knocking Down Walls)

Let’s be honest—small bathrooms can feel more like closets than a place to relax and reset. We’ve worked with plenty of homeowners who’ve felt the same way: frustrated by tight spaces, cluttered counters, and that constant wish for “just a few more feet.” The good news? You don’t need to rip out walls to breathe new life into your small bathroom. A few thoughtful design choices can completely change how it feels.

Here are some of our go-to tips—based on real remodeling projects we've done across Central Virginia—for making a small bathroom feel more open, bright, and comfortable.

1. Lighten Things Up

Personal Tip: One of our clients once had a windowless half-bath with dark green walls and heavy wood cabinets. It felt like a cave. After repainting the walls a soft, creamy white and swapping in a lighter vanity, she walked in and said, "I actually want to spend time in here now."

Light, neutral colors reflect natural and artificial light, instantly making the room feel bigger. Think whites, soft greys, pale blues, or warm beiges.

2. Use Large Mirrors (Or Better Yet, Mirror Walls)

Mirrors don’t just help you get ready—they double your space visually. A large mirror over the sink or even a full mirrored wall can trick the eye and reflect more light, creating an airy vibe.

Pro Tip: Frameless mirrors work best in tight spaces—they feel sleek and don’t visually clutter the room.

3. Upgrade to a Floating Vanity

Traditional vanities are bulky and can take up valuable floor space. A wall-mounted or floating vanity opens up that space underneath, which makes the bathroom feel less crowded. Bonus: it makes cleaning easier too.

Client Win: A couple we worked with in Forest, VA, chose a minimalist floating vanity and added woven baskets underneath for storage. Stylish and functional.

4. Install Clear Glass Shower Doors

Opaque or patterned shower curtains can divide a small space in half. Instead, go for a frameless glass shower door. It allows your eye to travel through the whole room without visual breaks, which adds a sense of continuity and openness.

No Tub? No problem. A sleek walk-in shower with light tile and a clear enclosure can completely transform the space.

5. Get Smart with Storage

Clutter kills space. Period. That’s why we always help clients find storage that doesn’t feel like storage.

• Recessed medicine cabinets

• Built-in shelves above the toilet

• Narrow vertical cabinets

• Hooks instead of towel bars

Design Note: Open shelving with attractive bins or rolled towels can add charm without overwhelming the space.

6. Use Larger Floor Tiles

Smaller tiles mean more grout lines—and more visual noise. Instead, try large-format tiles on the floor. They help create a more seamless, unified look that can visually expand the room.

We Recommend: Matte porcelain tiles with a subtle texture—elegant, durable, and low-slip.

7. Think Vertically

If you can’t expand out, go up. Tall, narrow storage towers or vertical tile patterns draw the eye upward and create the illusion of height.

Final Thoughts from Our Team

Small bathrooms are a challenge, but they’re also one of our favorite spaces to remodel—because the transformation is often dramatic. It’s not just about making it “look” bigger. It’s about making it feel like it fits your life, your style, and your peace of mind.

If you're ready to fall back in love with your bathroom, even if it’s only a few square feet, we’d love to help.

📞 Call us at (540) 425-4150🔗 www.atlasremodeling.org