Design Mistakes That Make Your Bathroom Feel Smaller (and How to Avoid Them)

Designing a bathroom requires careful consideration to ensure the space feels open and inviting. Certain design choices can inadvertently make a bathroom appear smaller than it is. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Dark Color Schemes

While moody, dark bathrooms can be stylish, they often make spaces feel confined, especially if there’s limited natural light. Opting for lighter tones or balancing dark and light materials can create a more open ambiance.

Overwhelming Use of Multiple Colors

Introducing too many colors can make a small bathroom feel cluttered. Sticking to a cohesive palette helps maintain visual harmony and spaciousness.

Oversized Fixtures

Installing large bathtubs or vanities that don’t suit the bathroom’s scale can dominate the space, making it feel cramped. Selecting appropriately sized fixtures ensures better flow and functionality.

Cluttered Surfaces

Leaving toiletries and decor scattered can quickly make a bathroom feel tight. Utilizing storage solutions like shelves or cabinets helps keep surfaces clear and the area more open.

Bulky Hardware

Large, chunky faucets and handles can overwhelm a small bathroom. Opting for sleek, streamlined hardware maintains a sense of space and elegance.

Small Tile Patterns

Using tiny tiles with numerous grout lines can make walls and floors appear busier and the room smaller. Larger tiles with minimal grout lines can create a more expansive look.

Lack of Texture and Softness

A bathroom devoid of textures and soft elements can feel cold and uninviting. Introducing materials like soft towels, rugs, or textured wall treatments adds warmth and depth, enhancing the perception of space.

By being mindful of these design aspects, you can create a bathroom that feels more spacious and comfortable, regardless of its actual size.