10 Creative 5x6 Bathroom Ideas: Small bathroom, big style – my top 10 design tricks for a 5x6 space

One time, a client asked me if I could turn their 5x6 bathroom into a luxurious spa with a full tub, double vanity, and a walk-in shower… I laughed, then we sat down with coffee and a tape measure. That project taught me two things: small spaces can push your creativity to the max, and you can achieve comfort and beauty with the right tricks. So today, I’m sharing 10 bathroom ideas that have worked wonders in my past projects – hopefully they’ll inspire you too.

1. Wall-mounted vanity

Lifting your vanity off the floor instantly gives the illusion of a bigger space. It also makes cleaning a breeze – no more dust trapped under the cabinets.

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2. Glass shower enclosure

Instead of a bulky curtain or a framed door, go frameless. It keeps the visuals flowing and the bathroom feeling airy, just like in this bathroom design tool project I tried last year.

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3. Large-format tiles

Bigger tiles mean fewer grout lines, which makes the room look cleaner and more spacious. Just be sure to match the grout color to the tile for a seamless look.

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4. Niche storage in the shower

Carving out a small wall niche avoids bulky caddies and keeps shampoo out of sight. It’s a small change that makes a huge difference in visual tidiness.

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5. Light, neutral palette

Soft whites, beiges, or pale grays reflect light and make the bathroom feel bigger. If white bores you, layer in textures like stone or matte subway tiles to add depth.

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6. Pocket door

Swapping a swing door for a pocket door frees up precious floor space. In one remodel, that single switch allowed me to add extra shelving for towels, aided by my favorite free floor plan creator when planning clearance.

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7. Vertical towel warmer

Instead of a traditional towel bar, a slim wall-mounted towel warmer doubles as storage and a cozy bathroom upgrade. Perfect for those chilly mornings.

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8. Mirror with built-in lighting

Integrated LED mirrors add a sleek touch, cut down on wall clutter, and give the perfect glow for morning routines.

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9. Corner sink

A corner-mounted sink can free up traffic flow, especially in a narrow 5x6 layout. I’ve even used a corner vanity paired with a 3D floor planner to visualize angles before committing.

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10. Floating shelves above the toilet

This often-wasted space can store baskets, plants, or decor. Just don’t overload – in small spaces, less is definitely more.

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FAQ

Q1: Can a 5x6 bathroom fit both a shower and a tub?

It’s challenging, but possible with a shower-tub combo. Standalone tubs usually require more length.

Q2: How do I make my small bathroom look bigger?

Use light colors, large-format tiles, and glass enclosures to create an open feel.

Q3: Is underfloor heating worth it in a small bathroom?

Yes – it provides comfort, and heating a small area is energy-efficient.

Q4: What lighting is best for a 5x6 bathroom?

Layered lighting: ambient ceiling light plus mirror lighting for tasks.

Q5: Can I still have storage in a small bathroom?

Absolutely – think vertical: shelves, niches, and over-toilet storage work well.

Q6: Should I hire a designer for a small bathroom remodel?

If budget allows, yes – they can spot clever layout changes you may miss.

Q7: Are dark colors ever good for small bathrooms?

Yes, when paired with good lighting. Dark walls can make a cozy, dramatic statement.

Q8: What’s the average remodel cost for a 5x6 bathroom?

It varies widely by materials and labor. According to HomeAdvisor, national averages range from $3,000–$10,000.