10 Creative 5' x 8' Bathroom Layout Ideas: Small Bathroom, Big Impact — My Favorite 5' x 8' Design InspirationsMarian ColeJan 20, 2026Table of Contents1. Swap the Tub for a Walk-In Shower2. Floating Vanity for Airy Feel3. Pocket Door Magic4. Mirror Wall Illusion5. Bright & Light Tile Choices6. Built-In Niches for Storage7. Vertical Towel Warmers8. Layered Lighting Plan9. Wall-Mounted Toilet10. Multi-Use FixturesFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEI once had a client who insisted on fitting a freestanding tub, double vanity, and a separate shower into a 5' x 8' bathroom. At first, I thought she was joking. She wasn’t. That project taught me that even in a compact layout, clever design can work wonders — it just requires prioritizing what truly matters. Small spaces often push us to be more resourceful, and I’m here to share 10 ideas straight from my own projects that can transform a 5' x 8' bathroom into something functional and stylish.1. Swap the Tub for a Walk-In ShowerA walk-in shower instantly frees up visual space and makes the room feel larger. Frameless glass also lets light flow freely. Bonus: cleaning is easier. I often use a bathroom design tool to play with different shower shapes before committing.save pin2. Floating Vanity for Airy FeelInstalling a floating vanity keeps the floor visible, which tricks the eye into seeing more space. I recommend drawers instead of cabinets for better storage access.save pin3. Pocket Door MagicReplacing a swinging door with a pocket door maximizes usable floor area. This works wonders for tight bathrooms where every inch counts.save pin4. Mirror Wall IllusionA large mirror over the vanity — or even a full mirror wall — can almost double the perceived space. Just be mindful of what reflections you’re creating.save pin5. Bright & Light Tile ChoicesLight-colored tiles, especially with a subtle glossy finish, bounce more light and open up the room. I often use oversized tiles to reduce grout lines for a cleaner look.save pin6. Built-In Niches for StorageInstead of bulky shelves, recess storage into the wall for shampoo, soap, and toiletries. When I mapped one of these in a free floor plan creator, it saved more space than the client expected.save pin7. Vertical Towel WarmersMounting a sleek towel warmer vertically uses otherwise wasted wall space and adds a touch of spa-like comfort.save pin8. Layered Lighting PlanCombine overhead lighting, vanity sconces, and even under-cabinet LEDs. This layering makes the space functional and mood-friendly.save pin9. Wall-Mounted ToiletIt’s a splurge, but a wall-hung toilet frees floor space and makes cleaning easier. Plus, it has a cool, minimal look.save pin10. Multi-Use FixturesA combo shower/tub might sound old-fashioned, but in a 5' x 8' layout, it’s a smart compromise. I once visualized this in a 3D mockup using an 3D floor planner — seeing it virtually helped the client commit confidently.save pinFAQ1. What is the most efficient layout for a 5' x 8' bathroom?The most common and efficient layout is a single-wall arrangement with the sink, toilet, and shower/tub lined up. This minimizes plumbing runs and simplifies construction.2. Can I fit a double vanity in a 5' x 8' bathroom?Usually no, unless you use a custom narrow or corner vanity. Even then, you’ll sacrifice counter space and storage.3. How much does it cost to remodel a 5' x 8' bathroom?Costs vary widely by finishes and labor rates. On average, expect $6,000–$15,000 for a mid-range remodel in the U.S. (Source: National Kitchen & Bath Association).4. Is a bathtub possible in a 5' x 8' bathroom?Yes, a standard 60-inch tub fits. The challenge is balancing it with enough storage and a comfortable walkway.5. How can I make my small bathroom feel more spacious?Use light colors, large-format tiles, and plenty of mirrors. Minimize clutter and opt for floating elements like vanities or toilets.6. Are wet rooms a good idea for 5' x 8' bathrooms?If waterproofing is done well, yes. A wet room can eliminate visual barriers and make the entire space feel more open.7. Should I choose a sliding shower door or curtain?Sliding doors save space but require more thorough cleaning. Curtains are budget-friendly and can be swapped easily for a new look.8. Can I DIY a 5' x 8' bathroom remodel?Parts of it, yes — painting, installing accessories, or updating lighting. But plumbing, waterproofing, and tile work are best left to professionals.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE