10 Small Bathroom Ideas for a 5x9 Layout: Creative, Space-Savvy Design Tips for a 5x9 Bathroom With Tub on the Left

One time, a client asked me to make her 5x9 bathroom feel like a spa — with a tub on the left, a rain shower, AND a double vanity. I laughed (kindly) and said, “Well, let's see what we can pull off without bending the laws of physics.” Small spaces like this really do spark creative thinking, and after more than ten years of designing, I’ve learned that the right layout can make all the difference.

In fact, one of my favorite tricks for getting these designs right is using a bathroom design tool before any demolition starts. It saves my clients a lot of money — and me a lot of headaches.

1. Floating Vanity for Extra Floor Space

A floating vanity makes the floor visible and instantly opens up the room visually. You can tuck baskets under it for hidden storage, though deep cleaning might be a tad trickier.

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2. Glass Panel Instead of Shower Curtain

If your tub is on the left, a fixed glass panel keeps water in while making the room feel wider. Bonus: no more grimy curtain rings.

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3. Pocket Door to Save Swing Space

Switching to a pocket door means you won’t lose precious floor area to door swing. It’s a bit pricier to install but worth it in such a narrow layout.

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4. Tall, Narrow Storage Towers

I once added a slim cabinet between the tub and vanity — worked like magic for towels and toiletries. Great vertical use without feeling boxed in.

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5. Large-Format Wall Tiles

Big tiles with thin grout lines trick the eye into seeing a larger space. Just make sure you have a good planning reference so the tile layout lands right, especially around the tub.

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6. Mirror Wall for Depth

A mirrored wall opposite the tub can double the perceived size. Be ready to keep it spotless though — splashes show up quickly.

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7. Niche Shelves Inside Tub/Shower Wall

Recessed shelving in the wall above the tub keeps bottles off the ledge and frees up visual space. Waterproofing is key here!

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8. Light, Warm Color Palette

Soft whites, beiges, or pastels bounce light and make the room feel airy. Avoid overly cool tones if you want it cozy instead of clinical.

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9. Under-Cabinet LED Lighting

Adding LED strips under the vanity or along baseboards gives a subtle glow at night. It’s not just pretty — it’s super practical for midnight trips.

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10. Wall-Mounted Toilet

Mounting the toilet on the wall can visually free up floor space. It’s a splurge and needs sturdy framing, but in my last project, paired with a detailed 3D model, it completely transformed the feel of the room.

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FAQ

1. How wide is a typical 5x9 bathroom?

It’s 5 feet wide and 9 feet long — standard for many small full baths.

2. Can I fit a double vanity in a 5x9 layout with tub on the left?

It’s tight. Most designers recommend a single vanity to keep it from feeling cramped.

3. Do I need a professional for this size bathroom remodel?

You can DIY some elements, but a designer can help avoid costly layout mistakes.

4. What’s the best tub size for a 5-foot width?

Five-foot alcove tubs are standard and fit wall-to-wall in this layout.

5. Will large tiles make my small bathroom look bigger?

Yes, large tiles with minimal grout lines visually expand a space, according to NKBA guidelines.

6. Is a pocket door hard to install?

It requires reframing the wall, but it’s a great space-saving feature in narrow rooms.

7. Can I add both a tub and shower in this space?

Yes, by combining them into a shower-over-tub setup with a glass panel.

8. Are heated floors worth it in a small bathroom?

They add comfort, and because the square footage is small, the cost is relatively low compared to bigger rooms.