10 Inspiring 8'x8' Bathroom Design Ideas: My favorite ways to make an 8'x8' bathroom feel spacious and stylish

One time, I had a client who insisted on fitting both a freestanding tub and a huge double vanity into their 8'x8' bathroom. I nearly choked on my coffee. But it turned into one of my favorite projects, because small spaces force you to be more creative — and that’s where the magic happens. If you’re working with an 8'x8' bathroom, here are my 10 go-to ideas from over a decade of real projects and lessons learned.

In one renovation, we tested layouts with a room planner before buying a single tile — it saved us from a costly mistake and helped the client visualize the final look.

1. Go Vertical with Storage

When floor space is limited, I always tell people to look up. Tall cabinets or open shelves above the toilet keep essentials within reach without eating into your movement area. The only caution is not to overload them, or it can make the room feel top-heavy.

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2. Floating Vanity for Airy Feel

Wall-mounted vanities free up floor area, creating an illusion of more space. It also makes mopping way easier, which is a small but real win in daily life.

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3. Walk-in Shower with Glass Partition

Replacing a bulky tub with a glass walk-in shower instantly opens up the bathroom visually. Just remember, clear glass means you’ll see every water spot — I suggest a quick squeegee after showers.

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4. Use Light, Reflective Materials

Glossy tiles, pale paint, and even metallic finishes bounce light around, making the room brighter. In one project, we paired warm white walls with soft brass fixtures, and the effect was pure sunlight.

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5. Pocket Doors Instead of Swing Doors

Switching to a sliding pocket door can save up to 10 square feet of clearance space. The client I tried this with was skeptical at first but now swears it was the best decision.

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6. Strategic Mirror Placement

Mirrors don’t just help you get ready — they double the visual space. For an 8'x8', I often use a mirror wall above the sink, paired with good lighting. I’ve even tested options in a free floor plan creator to get proportions just right.

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7. Layered Lighting Scheme

Don’t rely on one overhead light. Use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create depth. LED strips under shelves are my secret trick for a high-end feel without the high expense.

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8. Hidden Niches in Shower

Built-in niches keep shampoo bottles from crowding the edges of your tub or shower. It looks cleaner and frees up space. Just waterproof well — trust me on this one.

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9. Consistent Flooring for Flow

Using the same flooring throughout makes the bathroom look bigger. I once continued the same tile into the shower with a linear drain, and it felt twice the size. You can preview these ideas with a bathroom design tool to avoid layout regrets.

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10. Accent Wall for Personality

One bold wall — patterned tile, color, or texture — adds style without overwhelming the space. In small bathrooms, I place it where your eye naturally lands when you walk in.

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FAQ

1. What is the best layout for an 8'x8' bathroom?

It depends on your needs, but a walk-in shower, single vanity, and smart storage are a safe, spacious choice.

2. Can I fit a bathtub in an 8'x8' bathroom?

Yes, but choose a compact model and pair it with space-saving fixtures to prevent crowding.

3. How do I make my 8'x8' bathroom feel bigger?

Use light colors, large mirrors, glass partitions, and consistent flooring to create visual expansion.

4. Are pocket doors worth it for small bathrooms?

Absolutely — they free up valuable swing space and improve traffic flow.

5. What type of lighting works best in small bathrooms?

A combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting gives both function and warmth.

6. Should I use large or small tiles in a small bathroom?

Larger tiles with thinner grout lines create a seamless look, making the space feel larger.

7. How much does it cost to remodel an 8'x8' bathroom?

Costs vary widely, but expect anywhere between $8,000 and $20,000 depending on materials and labor.

8. Where can I find design inspiration for 8'x8' bathrooms?

Check platforms like Houzz, Pinterest, and Coohom for real projects and visual ideas.