10 Brilliant 5x6 Bathroom Ideas: Small Space, Big Style — 10 Design Tricks for Your 5x6 Bathroom

A few years ago, I had a client who insisted on squeezing both a freestanding tub and a double vanity into their 5x6 bathroom. I nearly spilled my coffee when I saw the sketch. But that crazy moment taught me something — small spaces ignite the most creative solutions, and sometimes, crazy ideas lead to genius layouts. In this post, I’m sharing my go-to 10 design ideas that can make your 5x6 bathroom not just functional, but absolutely gorgeous. Trust me, I’ve done this more than once, and the results can rival larger bathrooms. If you’re curious how to visualize before committing, I’ve got a neat trick with an online room planner that’s saved many of my projects.

1. Wall-Mounted Vanity

Mounting the vanity to the wall frees up floor space, making the room appear bigger. It also gives a spot for hidden LED lighting underneath, which feels luxe at night. Just remember, plumbing placement might need adjusting.

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2. Sliding Door Entry

If your 5x6 bath still uses a swing door, replace it with a sliding barn or pocket door. You’d be surprised how much movement space this frees inside the bathroom.

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3. Large-Format Tiles

Paradoxically, using large tiles in small bathrooms reduces grout lines, giving the illusion of a more open space. Lighter tones are usually safer if you’re chasing a bright, airy vibe.

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4. Floating Shelves

Above the toilet or next to the mirror, floating shelves provide extra storage without boxing in the room. Just keep them styled with minimal items to avoid a cluttered look.

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5. Corner Sink

Shifting the sink to a corner opens floor space for easier movement. I once used a sleek triangular basin in a rental property — the tenant said it felt like winning the space lottery. For tricky layouts, I often sketch ideas in a free floor plan creator to check proportions before buying anything.

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6. Glass Shower Enclosure

Swap your opaque shower curtain for a frameless glass panel. It lets the eye travel further, visually expanding the room. Just keep a good squeegee handy to battle water spots.

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7. Mirrored Wall

Adding a full-height mirror, even behind the door, can double the perceived space. This trick is especially good if you want a brighter room without changing the lighting layout.

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8. Vertical Storage Towers

Don’t fight the narrowness — embrace height. Tall, slim cabinets can store toiletries, towels, and even cleaning supplies while taking up minimal footprint. The key is matching cabinet color to the walls to blend them in.

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9. Underfloor Heating

Nothing says comfort like stepping onto a warm floor after a shower. In small bathrooms, the installation area is smaller, so cost can be surprisingly reasonable. Plus, it eliminates the need for bulky radiators, freeing more layout options.

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10. Niche Storage in Shower

Instead of wire racks, recessed niches in the shower wall keep bottles tidy and off the floor. Plan them at varying heights if you share the bathroom with kids. I once had a client use that extra space to hide waterproof Bluetooth speakers — genius! I often model these micro-adjustments in a bathroom design tool so clients can see before we tile.

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FAQ

1. How can I maximize space in a 5x6 bathroom?

Use wall-mounted fixtures, sliding doors, and reflective surfaces. These make the space look larger without costly remodeling.

2. Is a bathtub possible in a 5x6 bathroom?

Yes, but you’ll likely need a compact tub or a shower-tub combo. Be cautious with proportions so it doesn’t overwhelm the room.

3. What’s the best color for small bathrooms?

Lighter shades like soft whites, pale greys, and pastels work best for a bright, airy feel. Dark accents can add depth when used sparingly.

4. Are glass shower doors better than curtains?

For small bathrooms, glass is superior for openness and light flow. However, it requires more frequent cleaning to stay clear.

5. Can I have storage in such a small bathroom?

Absolutely. Vertical cabinets, recessed niches, and over-the-door racks add storage without crowding the space.

6. How do I plan the layout?

Use graph paper or a digital planning tool to sketch different configurations. According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, scaled planning prevents costly mistakes.

7. What flooring works best?

Porcelain tile is a durable, water-resistant choice. Larger tiles with minimal grout lines enhance the feeling of space.

8. How much does a 5x6 bathroom remodel cost?

It varies widely, but expect $3,000–$8,000 for modest updates. Custom features or luxury finishes can push the budget higher.