In the late 1990’s and early 2000’s home building was about supersizing everything. McMansions with large rooms, vaulted ceilings in foyers, big living rooms and dining rooms were all the rage. The average size home in the 1950’s of 983 square feet had become bloated to 2,434 square feet by 2005.
As we get ready to celebrate the new year in 2015 trends have changed significantly. The average size of the home is now decreasing (this can be seen in the popularity of the book The Not So Big Homeby Sarah Susanka). Features which have contributed to homes becoming smaller include tighter access to financing, improved design, and the desire for more green and sustainable spaces.
As homes are shrinking bathrooms are getting smaller as well – but this is not to imply style and function are becoming victims of this down-sizing process – quite the contrary actually. Learn below 5 fun and intriguing design tips to make a smaller bathroom more stylish and better performing!
Design Tip 1 – Don’t chop up your space – In most conventional designs shower enclosures are separated from the rest of the bathroom by a curb and a glass wall. To improve the use of space think like the Europeans (who have used smaller bathrooms for years) and create a one level waterproof wet room to maximize square footage.
Design Tip 2 – Think multi-purpose – Check out how this toilet can be concealed and “replaced” by a useful bench to create a nicer look with the benefit of additional functionality. When spaces are smaller ingenuity and space planning become more important!
Design Tip 3 – Use vertical creativity – Since the square footage of the floor is reduced (and our demand for storage always seems to be growing) search for products like this 180 degree revolving storage unit to gain space yet simultaneously maintain a clean look by using unused “vertical” space.
Design Tip 4 – Build in vs. building out – Add hidden space by building into the walls vs. onto the floor. Use recessed niches in the shower to maximize elbow room. Add mirrored medicine cabinets to beef up storage and create the feeling of a larger room size.
Design Tip 5 – Think big and bright – The room will appear more expansive (while minimizing maintenance) by using larger floor tiles or pieces of stone. Consider brighter colors like those shown in this glossy DIY friendly shower wall panels for a larger feel.
What questions do you have about improving the function and looks of a small bathroom? Please comment or call one of the numbers below for additional feedback
If you’re looking for more information or an estimate on remodeling a small bathroom or nationwide material supply call The Bath Doctor in Cleveland (216-531-6085), Columbus (614-252-7294) or for nationwide supply Innovate Building Solutions (877-668-5888).
President of Innovate Building Solutions a nationwide supplier and regional (Cleveland and Columbus) remodeling contractors. Some of our product lines include glass counters, floors, backsplashes, glass blocks and grout free shower and tub wall panels
