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Maximising Space in Your Bathroom Renovation: Expert Tips from Ripples Bathrooms
When it comes to bathroom renovations, making the most of your available space is often one of the biggest challenges. Whether you're working with a small ensuite or a compact guest bathroom, smart design choices can turn even the tightest areas into a functional, stylish sanctuary. At Ripples Bathrooms, we specialise in transforming bathrooms of all shapes and sizes, and we’ve compiled some of our top tips for maximising space in your bathroom renovation.
Opt for Wall-Mounted Fixtures 
One of the most effective ways to free up floor space in a small bathroom is by choosing wall-mounted fixtures. Floating sinks, toilets, and vanities not only create a sleek, modern look, but they also allow for additional storage space underneath. Wall-mounted fixtures can make your bathroom feel more spacious by reducing visual clutter and giving the illusion of a larger floor area.
Pro Tip: Pair your wall-mounted vanity with open shelving or baskets underneath for added storage without sacrificing style.
Go for Slimline Designs
Not all fixtures need to be full-sized. Slimline designs for toilets, sinks, and shower enclosures are available and can make a world of difference in a small bathroom. A compact vanity or a narrower sink can offer the same functionality as larger models while leaving more room to move around.
Pro Tip: Consider a corner sink or a narrow trough-style sink to save counter space without compromising on practicality.
Use Light Colours and Reflective Surfaces
Colour plays a huge role in how large or small a room feels. To open up your bathroom, opt for light, neutral colours like white, soft greys, or pastels. These shades reflect more light, giving the illusion of a larger, airier space.
Additionally, reflective surfaces—from glossy tiles to large mirrors—can enhance this effect. Mirrors, in particular, are one of the easiest and most effective ways to make a small bathroom feel bigger. A large mirror or mirrored cabinetry can double the perception of space while adding brightness.
Choose a Walk-In Shower 
For many, a bathtub is non-negotiable. However, in a small bathroom, swapping the bath for a walk-in shower can free up significant space. Walk-in showers with clear glass enclosures (or even no enclosure at all) create a seamless, open feel.
Pro Tip: Install a recessed shelf (also known as a shower niche) in the shower wall to store toiletries without taking up valuable space.
Maximise Vertical Space
If you're short on floor space, look upwards. Vertical storage is key in compact bathrooms, where every inch counts. Consider installing tall cabinets, shelving above the toilet, or wall-mounted towel rails.
Floating shelves can be a stylish and practical solution for storing towels, toiletries, or decorative items. Similarly, hooks and wall-mounted racks can help keep things off the counter, reducing clutter and creating a more organised look.
Install Pocket or Sliding Doors
Traditional hinged doors require space to swing open, which can take up valuable real estate in a small bathroom. A pocket door (which slides into the wall) or a sliding barn door is a great alternative that can save space and give your bathroom a sleek, contemporary feel.
Create Custom Built-In Storage
At Ripples Bathrooms, we believe in maximising every inch of your space, which is why custom built-in storage can be a game-changer in smaller bathrooms. Recessed shelving, built-in shower niches, or even custom cabinetry that fits awkward spaces can add storage without taking up valuable floor space.
Pro Tip: Consider recessed shelves in the walls to store toiletries and towels or a built-in vanity unit that provides hidden storage while maintaining a streamlined look.
Embrace Multi-Functional Features
In small bathrooms, every item needs to serve a purpose—or two! Look for multi-functional pieces, such as a vanity with built-in storage, a mirror with integrated lighting, or a combination shower-bath to save space.
Pro Tip: Consider heated towel rails that double as radiators—perfect for warming the room and keeping towels toasty without needing additional heaters.
Use Clear Glass and Frameless Features
Another way to create the illusion of space is by opting for clear glass and frameless features. Whether it's a shower enclosure or a partition, clear glass allows light to flow freely through the room, making it feel more open and less segmented.
Frameless shower doors or minimal hardware can add to the spacious, streamlined aesthetic.
Don’t Overlook Lighting
Good lighting is essential in small bathrooms. Natural light is always the best option, so if possible, try to increase the size of any windows or add a skylight. If that’s not feasible, use layered lighting to brighten the room. Recessed lights, wall sconces, or vanity lighting around mirrors can help to brighten dark corners and make the bathroom feel larger.
Pro Tip: Install dimmable lights to create a relaxing atmosphere when you want to wind down.
Final Thoughts 
Maximising space in your bathroom renovation requires thoughtful planning and smart design solutions. At Ripples Bathrooms, we’re experts in creating bathrooms that combine style with functionality, no matter how small the space. We can help you transform your bathroom into a spacious, relaxing retreat by incorporating space-saving features and clever storage solutions.
Ready to begin your renovation? Visit our Dublin showroom, where you can explore over 75 displays of innovative bathroom designs, or or schedule a consultation with the button below.
