Want to make the most of your half bathroom? When space is limited, creativity and resourcefulness must be limitless! Find our top tips for savvy, space-saving solutions in small bathrooms in order to maximize what you have.
1. Place your mirrors strategically.
Mirrors have the power to double the appearance of a space—use yours wisely! Ideally, you would place your mirror across from or perpendicular to a window, thereby doubling the effect of natural light. This can make a room feel much more spacious than it actually is. However, many half bathrooms are tucked away in an interior hallway with no available window. In that case, you’ll probably need to place a mirror above the sink. Go about four to 10 inches above the countertop, depending on the height of the faucet. Too low, and you risk making the room feel shrunken. If it suits the design of your half bath, consider sconces on either side of the mirror. Again, the idea is to double-down on light reflection to make the room feel bigger. You might even place another mirror opposite the first!
Searching for the perfect mirror? From easy-to-install Add A Frame® kits to fully custom Framed Mirrors, we have what you need.
2. Be shrewd about shelving.
Floor space comes at a premium in half bathrooms, and you likely can’t afford to eat it up with big shelving units, magazine racks, and storage containers. Thanks to floating shelves and over-the-toilet shelving units, you can still achieve the storage you need while keeping the floor space relatively clear. Utilize wall space where you can, and consider additional creative solutions like basket systems designed specifically for pedestal sinks.
3. Focus on proportional fixtures.
Half baths are a fun space to have a little fun with your home design. Since they have a smaller footprint, it feels less risky to choose a bold paint color or playful wallpaper. While it is a wonderful spot to let your creativity shine, don’t go overboard with your fixtures. For lighting, a too-big pendant can encroach on headspace and make the room feel cramped. Opt for recessed lighting or more subtle light fixtures, which can actually make the room feel taller. Scale matters, especially in a small room.
4. Really think through the rug.
A bath mat you might put in your primary bathroom will be different from the one that should go in your half bath. A standard sized bath mat may look a little off-balance in a small half bath or powder room, but a mini runner may be the perfect fit. Oftentimes, half baths are more narrow and long than they are wide. In that case, a small runner is appropriate for the proportions of the room—much more so than a square mat.
Hopefully, you feel empowered and prepared to make the most of your small half bathroom. Use these tips as a jumping off point, but remember: home design is personal. There are no right or wrong answers—and the only person who needs to love it is you!
