Remodeling small bathrooms can be as fun and rewarding as an extensive renovation. However, remember that space, storage, and design considerations are unique to the smaller area.

Before you begin, plan your project and budget for remodeling. That will help you set priorities and avoid costly surprises during the process.

Space

A small bathroom remodel is not a small task, but with the right strategies, you can make the room feel more spacious. One standard method is to raise the ceiling to create the impression of a larger space.

Another is to add light fixtures that direct sunlight upward. This can be achieved with recessed lighting or wall sconces in front of the mirror.

The ceiling is often the limiting factor for the amount of space in a bathroom, so try to eliminate the use of crown molding or install a sconce that fits above the ceiling.

Adding storage is also an essential part of a bathroom remodel. A cabinet offers a place to tuck extra rolls of toilet paper and hand towels while providing surface areas for displaying decorative accents.

Replacing the shower enclosure is also a good option for small bathroom remodeling projects. A stand-up single-stall shower is more cost-effective than a tub or shower/tub combo and can be customized to match your style.

Before starting a remodeling project, take the time to consider your needs and set a budget that will cover all of your desired changes. This way, you can avoid unexpected costs or surprises when the remodeling is completed.

Lighting

When remodeling small bathrooms in Kansas City, lighting is one of the essential features to consider. A well-designed lighting scheme will help make the space feel more extensive and more spacious and help create a relaxing mood for a bath or shower.

The lighting in a bathroom can either make or break the space. Too little, and the room will look dark and uninviting; too much will feel clinical and sterile.

While ceiling and wall lights are essential in a bathroom, don’t forget to incorporate accent lighting too. Pendants and other directional downlights can be a great way to add personality to a room, mainly when used with various textural materials like wallpaper and tiles.

A good mix of recessed, accent, and decorative lighting is often the best way to illuminate a small space. For example, a multi-bulb sconce hung at eye level will cast light evenly up and down the face and eliminate shadows — an excellent option for a small bathroom where the mirror is the central point of focus. Madeli illuminated mirrors, or similar mirrors that include lights, can have a similar effect if you’re looking for a sleek, modern design. The last thing anyone wants is harsh mirror lighting – it’s got to be just right!

Storage

Whether you have a small or large bathroom, storage is always a big issue. After all, it would be best if you had a place to put all the towels, toiletries, and other bits and pieces you use throughout the day.

One of the best ways to keep this area tidy is by creating a storage system tailored to your needs. This can be as simple as a laundry basket stored on the floor or as elaborate as an under-the-sink cabinet with drawers and shelves.

Another option is to use a wall-mounted pegboard for hanging bath supplies and other items. Blogger Annie Diamond from Most Lovely Things took this idea further by creating a custom plywood wall with adjustable shelves to hold everything from toiletries to reading material.

Changing how doors operate can significantly improve a small bathroom remodel. By removing in-swing doors and replacing them with bypass or sliding glass shower doors, you can create a less intrusive and light-filled space.

Fixtures

Choosing the right fixtures for your bathroom remodel is critical to creating a space that meets all your needs. In addition, a bath specialist like Kerr recommends keeping the materials consistent so they don’t look too busy in a small area.

For lighting, recessed and semi-flush mounts are both great options. They sit flush against the ceiling, which keeps dust and debris away from the bulb and shade.

Another option is track lighting, positioned anywhere you want to light. They’re often used in smaller bathrooms to illuminate but can act as spotlights when paired with one or two bulbs.

Wall-mounted shelves are also a great option in smaller bathrooms because they can be mounted above the toilet and used to hold rolled towels. This saves valuable cabinet and shelf space while giving you easy access to linens when needed.

The main goal of remodeling a small bathroom is to maximize space and increase storage. Thankfully, there are many ways to accomplish this, from reworking your layout to installing efficient storage solutions in your bathroom.

Design

When remodeling a small bathroom, the design needs to be considered. The room should be open and airy without becoming cluttered and cramped.

Architects and designers recommend keeping things simple, avoiding overcrowding, and keeping patterns to a minimum. They also suggest a simple and neutral color scheme that will make the room feel larger and more open.

In addition, consider installing a wall-hung sink and toilet. This will help save space, especially if the bathroom is small and doesn’t have a lot of storage.

You can also try converting your bathtub to a shower. This will give you more floor space and allow you to get ready more easily.

Another great way to maximize storage in a small bathroom is by installing open shelving behind your toilet. This will give you additional storage for shampoos, soaps, and other items that must be kept close by.

You should also consider removing heavy crown molding that takes up valuable floor space in your small bathroom. You can also install narrow mirrors and light sconces to create a more spacious appearance.