When it comes to designing a small bathroom with a shower, it can feel like an endless challenge to make the space both functional and stylish. However, with the right design ideas and smart choices, you can transform even the tiniest bathroom into a beautiful and efficient space. In this listicle, we’ll cover 31 amazing small bathroom with shower ideas to inspire your next bathroom makeover.
1. Opt for a Glass Shower Enclosure
If you’re looking to create the illusion of more space in your small bathroom, a glass shower enclosure is one of the best solutions. Unlike traditional shower curtains or frosted glass panels, a clear glass shower door will allow light to flow freely and make the room feel more open.
This sleek and modern design can help elevate the entire look of your bathroom without compromising on privacy or function. One of the advantages of glass is that it allows you to show off any stunning tile work or décor inside the shower, enhancing the aesthetics. Consider frameless options for a minimalist, contemporary look that adds visual openness.
Pro Tip: If you’re concerned about water splashes, a glass enclosure paired with a stylish shower mat or a well-placed squeegee can help maintain cleanliness and prevent water buildup.
2. Use Light, Neutral Colors
The key to making any small space feel larger is using light and neutral colors. Soft hues like whites, creams, light grays, or pastels reflect light, which gives the illusion of more space. In the context of a small bathroom with a shower, neutral tones work wonders to open up the room, making it feel airy and spacious.
If you want to introduce some color without overwhelming the space, opt for pastel blues or greens for a calm, serene vibe. Pair light walls with darker floors or vice versa to create a balanced contrast that doesn’t make the space feel closed in.
Pro Tip: Avoid dark colors that absorb light and can make the room feel cramped. Instead, focus on balancing light colors with textured elements like rugs, towels, or accessories to add depth.
3. Incorporate Vertical Storage
Storage is always a challenge in small bathrooms, but using vertical space to your advantage can help. Install shelves above the toilet, on the back of the bathroom door, or in unused corners to keep toiletries, towels, and other essentials organized.
Vertical storage can be as simple as tall, open shelving units or as elegant as custom cabinetry that fits snugly into your bathroom’s layout. This way, you’ll free up floor space, making the room feel less cluttered and more streamlined.
Pro Tip: Floating shelves are a great option for maintaining a clean look while keeping your bathroom organized. You can even hang baskets or bins on the wall to store extra items in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
4. Install a Corner Shower Stall
When space is limited, a corner shower stall is one of the best ways to save room while still offering a comfortable shower experience. By utilizing the often-overlooked corner of your bathroom, you can create a spacious feeling without taking up valuable square footage.
Choose from a range of corner shower designs, from traditional square and rectangular stalls to more modern rounded versions. Corner showers are also perfect for smaller tubs and bathrooms with a compact layout.
Pro Tip: Consider sliding or bi-fold shower doors for your corner stall to further maximize space. These door styles are ideal for small bathrooms where swing doors might be too bulky.
5. Choose a Curved Shower Curtain Rod
A curved shower curtain rod is a simple yet effective way to instantly enhance your shower’s space. Unlike straight rods, a curved rod pulls the curtain outward, giving you more elbow room and preventing the shower from feeling too cramped.
This small change can make a big difference in the overall feel of your bathroom. Not only does a curved rod give you extra space inside the shower, but it can also create a more luxurious look by adding a gentle curve to the curtain’s appearance.
Pro Tip: Pair a curved shower rod with a water-resistant curtain in a light color to keep the bathroom feeling open and airy.
6. Use Mirrors to Reflect Light and Space
Mirrors are an essential tool for making a small bathroom feel larger. By reflecting light and creating the illusion of depth, mirrors can make even the tiniest spaces feel brighter and more spacious. Consider installing a large mirror above the vanity or on one of the main walls to visually expand the room.
If you want to add a touch of style, opt for framed mirrors that match your bathroom’s décor. Frameless mirrors or mirrors with unique shapes can also serve as a striking focal point while still helping the space feel bigger.
Pro Tip: Avoid placing mirrors directly opposite windows, as they can reflect too much natural light and create a glare. Instead, position mirrors where they reflect light onto darker corners of the room.
7. Go for a Frameless Shower Door
A frameless shower door adds a sleek and sophisticated touch to any small bathroom. The absence of heavy frames makes the space feel less crowded and allows the eye to flow uninterrupted, contributing to a more open and airy atmosphere.
Frameless shower doors also create a modern look that’s perfect for contemporary bathrooms. Whether you choose a sliding door or a hinged model, frameless options offer a clean, minimalist aesthetic that complements any design style.
Pro Tip: Frameless glass doors are easier to clean compared to framed ones, as there’s no metal track that can accumulate soap scum or mold.
8. Incorporate Floating Vanity Units
Incorporating a floating vanity unit into your small bathroom is a fantastic way to save space while also adding a modern touch. Floating vanities are installed on the wall, leaving the floor beneath open, which helps create the illusion of more space.
These vanities are ideal for small bathrooms because they don’t overwhelm the room. You can choose a floating vanity with a built-in sink or opt for a minimalist countertop design for an ultra-modern look.
Pro Tip: Pair a floating vanity with a large mirror or a set of stylish, open shelves underneath to maximize storage and maintain an airy, uncluttered vibe.
9. Create a Wet Room Concept
A wet room concept removes the need for a shower stall altogether by incorporating the shower area directly into the rest of the bathroom. This design works especially well in small bathrooms, as it eliminates the need for bulky partitions or doors, creating an open and seamless look.
Wet rooms are perfect for small spaces because they make the most of every square foot. With a glass partition or no partition at all, you can maximize the flow of light and space.
Pro Tip: Wet rooms work best in larger small bathrooms where water drainage and waterproofing are easily managed. Make sure your floors are properly sloped for effective water drainage.
10. Install a Built-In Niche for Shower Essentials
A built-in niche is a great way to keep your shower essentials organized without cluttering the space. These recessed shelves are typically installed into the shower wall and provide a sleek, modern place for shampoos, soaps, and other toiletries.
By using the shower wall as storage, you can avoid bulky shower caddies or shelves that can take up floor or counter space. Built-in niches keep everything within arm’s reach, while maintaining a clean, minimalist look.
Pro Tip: For added style, tile the inside of the niche with decorative tiles that contrast with the rest of the shower area.
11. Use a Shower Bench for Comfort and Function
A compact shower bench can provide both comfort and function in a small bathroom. Perfect for lounging or shaving your legs, a shower bench offers convenience without sacrificing valuable space.
Opt for a built-in shower bench to save on floor space or a fold-down bench if you need a more flexible solution. These benches come in a variety of materials, including wood, stone, and plastic, and can be chosen to complement your bathroom’s style.
Pro Tip: Make sure the bench is properly waterproofed to ensure its longevity in a wet environment. A teak wood bench is both stylish and durable for use in a shower.
12. Incorporate Bright Lighting
Good lighting is essential in small bathrooms, as it can help open up the space and create a welcoming atmosphere. Install bright LED lights or recessed lighting to illuminate the bathroom and make it feel larger.
For a more luxurious touch, consider adding sconces or wall-mounted fixtures near the mirror to create a soft, flattering glow. Avoid using harsh, overhead lighting, as it can make a small bathroom feel even more cramped.
Pro Tip: Layer your lighting by combining ambient, task, and accent lighting to add depth and function to the space.
13. Go for a Minimalist Approach
When space is at a premium, less is definitely more. A minimalist approach can help simplify the design of your small bathroom and create a clean, streamlined look. Focus on the essentials, and avoid over-decorating with too many accessories or unnecessary features.
Choose simple, functional furniture and fixtures that blend seamlessly into the design. The key to minimalism is keeping surfaces clear and maintaining an uncluttered aesthetic.
Pro Tip: Embrace neutral tones and sleek materials such as matte finishes, smooth tiles, and glass to achieve a modern minimalist look in your bathroom.
14. Add a Pop of Color with Towels or Accessories
In a small bathroom, it’s important not to overwhelm the space with too much color. Instead, add pops of color through accessories such as towels, rugs, or shower curtains. This allows you to infuse personality into the space without making it feel closed in.
Bright, bold colors like navy blue, teal, or mustard can instantly energize a neutral bathroom and make it feel fresh and vibrant.
Pro Tip: Choose accessories in coordinating colors or mix and match complementary hues for a more dynamic look.
15. Utilize Small-Scale Shower Fixtures
When choosing shower fixtures for your small bathroom, go for smaller, space-efficient options. A compact showerhead, narrow faucets, or smaller shower controls can help streamline the look of your bathroom while still providing a luxurious experience.
Modern shower fixtures come in a variety of styles, including rain showerheads, handheld options, and wall-mounted units, all of which work well in tight spaces.
Pro Tip: Opt for multi-function showerheads that allow you to switch between different water settings for a customizable shower experience.
16. Use Patterned Tiles to Add Depth
Patterned tiles can add a stunning focal point to your small bathroom shower area. Whether you choose bold geometric shapes, florals, or more subtle designs, patterned tiles can create a sense of depth and visual interest without making the space feel too busy.
Use patterned tiles on the floor or on a single accent wall in the shower area to avoid overwhelming the space. The key is to choose a pattern that complements the rest of your bathroom’s décor.
Pro Tip: Keep the rest of the bathroom’s color palette neutral to ensure the patterned tiles are the focal point, rather than clashing with other elements.
17. Add Sliding Shower Doors
If you have limited space in your bathroom, sliding shower doors are an excellent option. Unlike traditional swinging doors, sliding doors don’t require additional space to open, making them perfect for compact bathrooms. They can be installed with a frame or as a frameless design for a more modern, minimalist look.
Sliding shower doors are available in various materials, including glass, frosted glass, and even acrylic, which allows you to choose the style that best suits your bathroom décor. They’re easy to clean and maintain, and because they don’t take up any extra space, they contribute to a more open feel.
Pro Tip: Make sure to measure your shower space carefully before purchasing sliding doors to ensure a perfect fit and smooth operation.
18. Consider a Walk-In Shower with No Door
If you’re looking for a completely open feel, a walk-in shower with no door is the way to go. This design removes the need for traditional shower doors or curtains, creating a spacious and seamless look. A doorless walk-in shower is ideal for small bathrooms because it keeps the space feeling open and allows natural light to flow freely.
To make sure water doesn’t spill out, you can install a low-profile shower threshold or use strategic tiling to direct water back into the shower area. Adding a glass partition is another option to keep the shower area defined while maintaining an open layout.
Pro Tip: A doorless shower works best with high-quality waterproofing and drainage to prevent water leakage and moisture buildup in the bathroom.
19. Incorporate a Tub-Shower Combo
While small bathrooms may not have room for a full-sized bathtub, a tub-shower combo is a great alternative. This design gives you the flexibility of a bath and a shower without taking up additional space. It’s perfect for families or anyone who enjoys relaxing in a bath but still needs the practicality of a shower.
Choose a slim, space-saving tub and pair it with a shower curtain or glass partition to keep the water contained. Consider built-in shelves or a floating vanity to make the most of the available space.
Pro Tip: If your bathroom is extremely tight on space, opt for a shorter or narrower tub to fit the layout without overcrowding the room.
20. Incorporate Vertical Tiling
When designing a small bathroom, consider incorporating vertical tiling to visually elongate the space. Vertical tiles can help draw the eye upward, creating the illusion of higher ceilings and a more expansive area.
You can use vertical tiles on the shower walls or as an accent behind the vanity or toilet to add depth and dimension. Opt for long, narrow tiles, subway tiles, or even bold vertical stripes for a more dramatic effect.
Pro Tip: For an even more striking look, choose contrasting colors for the tiles and grout, making the vertical lines stand out and creating a sense of height.
21. Invest in High-Quality, Compact Showerheads
In small bathrooms, every inch of space counts—so choosing the right showerhead can make a big difference. Compact, space-efficient showerheads deliver the same water pressure as larger models but in a smaller, more streamlined form. From handheld models to rain showerheads, there are plenty of options that will enhance your shower experience without taking up too much room.
Some high-quality showerheads come with adjustable settings, so you can customize the water flow to suit your preferences, while others are designed to conserve water, helping you save on utility bills.
Pro Tip: A handheld showerhead can be especially useful in small spaces, as it gives you flexibility and control during your shower.
22. Use Bold Accent Walls
If you want to create visual interest in your small bathroom, adding a bold accent wall can make a big impact without overwhelming the space. Whether you choose to accent the shower area, behind the mirror, or one of the bathroom walls, this simple design trick draws the eye and creates depth.
Use bold colors or patterns to make the accent wall stand out. Tile, wallpaper, or even painted walls can be used for this purpose. Be mindful of the overall balance in the room—your accent wall should complement the rest of the décor, not overpower it.
Pro Tip: Consider using patterned tiles in the shower to create a statement wall or choose a vibrant paint color for a more budget-friendly option.
23. Choose the Right Shower Curtain
For those who prefer a more flexible, cost-effective option, a shower curtain can still work wonders in a small bathroom. The right shower curtain can provide privacy, enhance the style of the room, and help keep the bathroom dry.
Choose a fabric or plastic curtain that matches the bathroom’s color scheme and design. Opt for light or neutral colors to keep the room feeling open, or choose a fun, patterned curtain to inject personality into the space.
Pro Tip: Consider a weighted shower curtain to keep it in place and avoid it blowing around in the shower. A curved rod can also give your curtain more space, creating a more comfortable shower experience.
24. Install a Space-Saving Toilet
In smaller bathrooms, every inch of space is precious. Installing a compact, space-saving toilet is an effective way to maximize the area while still providing the necessary functionality. Modern, slimline toilets are designed to take up less room without sacrificing comfort or performance.
These toilets are often paired with wall-hung sinks or floating vanities to further free up floor space. Consider a back-to-wall or wall-mounted toilet for a sleek, contemporary look.
Pro Tip: Many space-saving toilets come with efficient flushing mechanisms that use less water, making them both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
25. Add Textured Wall Panels for Interest
If you want to add an extra layer of style to your small bathroom, consider incorporating textured wall panels. These panels can create visual interest and give your bathroom a more luxurious, spa-like feel.
Textured panels can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, or faux stone, and can be installed in the shower area or on one of the walls. The tactile quality of these panels adds depth and dimension to the space, making the bathroom feel more dynamic.
Pro Tip: Opt for moisture-resistant textured panels that will hold up well in the humid bathroom environment.
26. Incorporate a Small Skylight for Natural Light
A small skylight can make a world of difference in a small bathroom, bringing in natural light and making the room feel more open and airy. Skylights are especially beneficial for bathrooms without windows or with limited natural light.
Install a small, strategically placed skylight to brighten up the shower area and other parts of the bathroom. Consider using frosted glass for privacy if the skylight is located in a more exposed area.
Pro Tip: Skylights can help reduce the need for artificial lighting, making your small bathroom feel more eco-friendly and sustainable.
27. Use Multi-Function Furniture
Multi-function furniture is a game-changer in small bathrooms. Choosing pieces that serve more than one purpose helps you maximize your space without cluttering the room. Look for items like vanities with built-in storage, folding shower benches, or wall-mounted drying racks.
These smart pieces will provide functionality and keep your bathroom organized, making it easier to maintain a clean and efficient space.
Pro Tip: A multi-functional mirror with built-in storage can double as both a decorative feature and a place to keep toiletries hidden.
28. Install a Shower Curtain or Glass Panel Divider
For those who love an open layout but need a little more privacy, a shower curtain or glass panel divider can be a perfect solution. A curtain can be drawn when needed to block water splashes and add some privacy while taking a shower.
Alternatively, a glass panel divider can create a modern, minimalistic look, separating the shower area from the rest of the bathroom without taking up much space.
Pro Tip: A frosted glass panel divider is a great option if you want privacy without compromising on light flow.
29. Add Plants for Freshness and Color
Plants are a fantastic way to bring life to a small bathroom, and they work especially well in shower areas. Choose moisture-loving plants like ferns, succulents, or air plants that thrive in humid conditions. Not only do they enhance the bathroom’s aesthetic, but they also help purify the air and add a refreshing touch of nature.
For a more stylish effect, hang plants from the ceiling or place them on a small shelf near the shower. Just be sure to choose plants that are suitable for the amount of light your bathroom gets.
Pro Tip: A small potted plant on the bathroom windowsill or a hanging plant near the shower can add a pop of green without taking up valuable floor space.
30. Choose a Minimalist Shower Tray
A minimalist shower tray is another great option for small bathrooms. These slimline trays are sleek and stylish, offering a clean, streamlined look without bulk. Choose from a variety of materials, such as stone resin or acrylic, to match the rest of your bathroom’s design.
A minimalist tray also makes cleaning easier because there are fewer crevices for dirt and grime to collect, keeping your bathroom looking fresh and tidy.
Pro Tip: Opt for a low-profile shower tray for a seamless, modern appearance that makes the bathroom feel more expansive.
31. Add Clever Storage Solutions
Last but not least, clever storage solutions are key to maintaining an organized small bathroom. Look for hidden storage options, such as under-sink cabinets, built-in shelving, or pull-out drawers in your vanity. These hidden spaces keep your bathroom free from clutter and help maximize every inch of space.
Consider vertical storage options or multi-functional furniture that doubles as storage and décor. The more organized your bathroom is, the more spacious it will feel.
Pro Tip: Install a shallow, wall-mounted cabinet above the toilet or next to the shower to store towels, toiletries, or cleaning supplies.
Conclusion
Designing a small bathroom with a shower doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By incorporating smart design choices, efficient storage solutions, and stylish elements, you can transform your compact space into a luxurious, functional oasis. From glass shower enclosures to clever multi-functional furniture, there are plenty of ways to make the most of every inch.
By using the ideas in this guide, you can create a bathroom that feels bigger, brighter, and more comfortable without compromising on style. Remember, the key is to balance practicality with aesthetics, and to choose designs that maximize your space while reflecting your personal taste. With these 31 small bathroom with shower ideas, you’ll be well on your way to creating a bathroom that feels like a true retreat.
