Homes & Property

Small bathrooms can be big on style

Images of palatial bathrooms in glossy brochures can be misleading. Very few of us have the space to accommodate a bath the size of a small swimming pool, twin basins and a walk-in shower.

In fact, the average British bathroom measures
2sq m - just enough space to fit a standard 700 x 1700mm bath plus WC and basin.

Make a plan

However, having limited space does not mean you should compromise on style. It is all just a matter of careful planning. The first step is to look at the space available and maximise it.

Wherever possible, try and use the existing plumbing; it can be costly and time consuming to re-route the water supply and waste pipes, but sometimes moving sanitaryware around may considerably improve your space.

At this stage, seek advice from a professional plumber to find out what’s possible. Moving the bathroom door may free up just enough wall space to fit a shower enclosure, while hanging the door so that it opens out of the bathroom is another space-enhancing tip.

When planning the layout, consider the height of the room as well as its width and depth. Replacing radiators with underfloor heating frees up valuable low-level space which could be used for a WC or storage unit, while wall cabinets, open shelves or an eye-level heated towel ladder make best use of otherwise empty wall areas.

Bath or shower

The next step is to decide what you want from the bathroom. If you are aiming to create a relaxing sanctuary a bath is a priority, but if you prefer an invigorating shower you may wish to dispense with the bath, tank the whole area and create a wetroom.

At this stage, consider who uses the bathroom and how they use it - for instance, if this is where you put on make-up, the design should include a large, well-lit mirror.

In a small space remember less is more, so keep it simple and ditch unnecessary items such as the bidet. If there is room for a bath and separate shower, an enclosure with a bi-fold door won’t encroach on the room.

Alternatively, a quadrant enclosure can be a solution where there is a free corner. If there isn’t room for both, another option is to replace the bath with a walk-in shower.

However, as Heather-Joy Crawford of Adamsez advises, "The UK is still a nation of bath lovers and canny property investors know that removing the bath will limit their potential buying market, so that’s rarely an option one would encourage. A great compromise is an overbath shower."

Many manufacturers now produce baths specifically designed to accommodate a shower. These are the same length as a standard bath but are wider at one end to create a comfortable showering area.

Compact sanitaryware

When choosing sanitaryware, wall-hung designs are best as they leave the floor free so the area appears larger. Derek Miller of Scope Bathrooms advises choosing products that are in proportion to the room.

"In a small bathroom the basin width should be 50cm to 55cm maximum, WCs should have a hidden cistern and it’s best to choose designs with clean, uninterrupted lines."

One of the smartest innovations in recent years has been the corner WC and basin. These tuck neatly into a corner, minimising the projection of the bowl into the room while providing spacious access on either side.

Look out for manufacturers who have produced ranges specifically for the smaller room. Ideal Standard’s Space and Small+ concepts contain many innovative pieces designed to make bathrooms more versatile."

Storage and style

Storage is another important consideration, says Julie Holliday of Shades. "I would always recommend installing fitted furniture in a small space. Not only does this create essential storage but it also produces a very streamlined look that’s easy to keep clean.

Wall-hung furniture is a great way to give the impression of more space by keeping as much of the floor area free. And just because you have a small space doesn’t mean you can’t have big design ideas - dramatic dark timber furniture will create a bold impression."

Storage space can also be found at floor level inside the bath panel, and a mirror-fronted cabinet above the basin will add to the sense of space and light. Choose a cabinet with integral lighting as this can be used to create an ambient feel at night or useful task light for shaving and applying make-up. Wall-mounted taps above the basin and bath further reduce surface clutter.

Finally, when it comes to decorating, floor and wall tiles of the same size and colour provide a sense of continuity within a small space. Choose large tiles in a pale shade for maximum impact.

Large mirrors and reflective surfaces, such as gloss lacquer furniture, are also space enhancing - and opt for clear, frameless glass for the shower panels to allow as much light as possible into the space.

First published in Kitchens Bedrooms & Bathrooms Magazine: the ultimate source of inspiration for the home. Latest issue in store now. Alternatively subscribe online here and save 20%.


Published: 24 April 2008