Designing a small bathroom is a recurring theme for private individuals and investors alike. A limited floor space does not necessarily have to mean sacrificing comfort - what counts is good planning, functional solutions and materials that are suitable for everyday use. How do you optically enlarge a small bathroom? Find out what would be a good solution and what to think about at the design stage.
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At first glance, a small bathroom seems like a major constraint. In practice, however, this does not have to be a problem: with a well-planned layout, a small bathroom can combine all the necessary functions and look good at the same time. Even rooms of 2.5 to 5 m² can be comfortable if the available floor space is properly used and if optically enlarging solutions are implemented.
Different people have different expectations of a small space. This is why it is important to tailor the layout and standard of finish to the user.
For the private user, everyday comfort is what counts. A small bathroom must combine many functions: a place for bathing, storing cosmetics and laundry. It often becomes a laundry room and a home „dressing table” at the same time. Practical storage, suspended cabinets and good lighting are therefore important to make the space appear larger and more organised.
For the investor, the priorities are aesthetics, durability and ease of cleaning. The bathroom in rented flats should look fresh even after several years of intensive use. Neutral wall colours, large-format tiles and robust finishing materials reduce grouting and make cleaning easier.
The number of bathrooms in a flat or house significantly influences their design and purpose.
If it's the only bathroom, it needs to accommodate absolutely everything - from the shower or bath, to space for a washing machine and storage cupboards. Consider a walk-in shower cubicle with a linear drain, mirrors with a concealed cabinet or a tall enclosure.
In houses or flats, the arrangement is easier - you can vary the functions. One bathroom with a bathtub will be a place for relaxation, another - with a shower - is good for quick mornings. A separate guest bathroom does not require a lot of space, but it should look impressive as it becomes a showpiece of the interior.
The technical conditions and condition of the building strongly influence the design possibilities.
They usually offer flexible installations and modern ventilation solutions. The layout usually provides for a shower cubicle, while a bathtub is sometimes more difficult to introduce. The lack of a window, on the other hand, requires good ventilation and an appropriate choice of light sources.
Here it is more common to find bathrooms with a window - which provides natural light and ventilation, but can sometimes be a challenge when arranging the walls. Plumbing risers in difficult places, unevenness or the need for major renovation have to be reckoned with.
A bathroom with a window has its pros and cons. Daylight and the possibility of ventilation is a big advantage. It also offers the chance to introduce plants that reflect light and make the interior warmer. In contrast, it is more difficult to plan for a mirror and enclosure - here sliding mirror panels or shelves around the window frame will work well.
With limited space, every detail counts. Interior architects offer solutions that make everyday use easier and improve the aesthetics. Which of these is worth opting for?
Trying to furnish a small bathroom on your own easily leads to mistakes. Poorly planned tiles, inappropriate placement of equipment or colours that are too dark can overwhelm the interior and reduce comfort. An interior architect can anticipate such pitfalls and propose solutions that combine ergonomics, aesthetics and durability.
The bathroom does not exist in isolation from the rest of the flat - it should be consistent with the style of the living room or bedroom. At DD Projekt, we treat it as an element of the whole, which is why we do not make single rooms.
We provide concept and detailed design with 3D visualisations, select the materials, organise our own teams and control all stages of the work.
A well-designed small bathroom can be comfortable, aesthetically pleasing and durable, while also being easy to clean. For the owner, it means everyday comfort, and for the investor, it makes the flat more attractive in the eyes of tenants. When designing, it is worth paying particular attention to the optimal use of the available space. The key remains a plan tailored to the square footage, lifestyle and the reality of the building.
Wondering how to furnish a small bathroom to combine functionality and aesthetics? Contact DD Projekt - we will prepare a turnkey design and implementation to suit your expectations and budget.
