Making the Most Out of Your Small Bathroom

Posted by woodrow ~ January 6th, 2010

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A small bathroom doesn’t have to resemble the torpedo room on a World War II submarine.  In large families, bathroom time can be at a  premium, forcing some members to use a half-bath or smaller second bathroom for shaving or putting on make-up in the morning. You can stave off claustrophobia with just a few changes that won’t cost an arm and a leg.

Never underestimate the power of a mirror to lend the feel of expanded space. Even if there’s limited room for a vanity, smaller mirrors on the walls can create a feeling of spaciousness and boost your spirits. Use slender frames for mirrors and any artwork you hang to maximize wall space and highlight the contrasts and tones.

Paint and Wallpaper Can Transform Your Space
In a confined space, lighter colors open up the room. Repairhome.com recommends painting light blue clouds on the ceiling to create vertical relief.  If you’re replacing wallpaper, choose light, cool tones with a fine texture. Larger elements can impose themselves in your confined space, achieving just the opposite of the effect you’re after.

Perhaps it’s time to change out your lighting fixtures and sinks.  A new sink with an art-glass or light-hued marble basin can brighten the room, too.  Light-toned bathmats, area rugs, or even candle-holders can all contribute to an open, carefree atmosphere.

Finally, choose wisely when purchasing artwork or plants for the small bathroom.  Smaller is always better. Find prints in bright, spacious hues, or landscapes that open out into the sea or rolling countryside. Plants add greenery and a sense of well-being, but if you overdue it, your room can feel like a torpedo room in the jungle.

 

2 Responses to “Making the Most Out of Your Small Bathroom”

  1. Tommy Tommy says:

    What would be the best option if you have a bathroom dedicated to about 3 younger children…Eventually I am going to want to paint over it or put in new wallpaper, and I am sure it is going to take a beating. Don’t really want too bright of colors for it because it will take a few extra coats if I decide to paint over it.. I could just use the huge mirror or huge artwork trick :P

  2. Hari Hari says:

    Tommy, we have 3 children who all share a small bathroom. We assigned each one of them their own shelf in the medicine cabinet and a hook for their towel, and a small shelf like cubby for personal stuff. The rule is that your stuff has to be i the medicine cabinet, on the hook, or in the cubby…ALWAYS!. This organization has really helped the bathroom stay clean and usable.

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