10 Smart 5x7 Bathroom Design Ideas: Space-Savvy Tips from My 10+ Years of Small Space Design

Once, a client asked me if we could fit a freestanding tub, double vanity, and a walk-in shower into her 5x7 bathroom. I almost choked on my coffee. But hey—small spaces bring out big creativity! Over the years, I’ve transformed dozens of tiny bathrooms into functional, beautiful retreats, and today I’m sharing my 10 favorite ideas that actually work.

1. Go Vertical with Storage

In a compact 5x7, wall height is your best friend. Tall cabinets, floating shelves, and recessed niches free up floor space while giving you more storage than you’d expect. I once used a full-height cabinet above the toilet that tripled towel storage without crowding the room—planned with the help of a room planner to get every inch right.

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2. Use a Corner Sink

A corner sink opens up precious square footage, especially near the doorway. It can feel unconventional, but the flow improvement is instant. Just remember: custom plumbing may nudge the budget up a bit.

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3. Pocket or Barn Doors

Swapping a swing door for a pocket or barn style frees up almost 10 square feet of usable space. I had one client who was skeptical until she realized she could finally open her shower door without dodging the bathroom door.

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4. Large-Format Tiles

It sounds counterintuitive, but larger tiles can make a small bathroom look bigger. Fewer grout lines create a sleeker, more spacious feel. Lighter tones add to the illusion, though a bold floor can work wonders in modern designs.

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5. Floating Vanity

Not only does a floating vanity look sleek, but it also makes floor space feel larger and easier to clean. I like pairing it with under-cabinet LED strips for a soft glow at night. Planning with a free floor plan creator helps test different vanity heights before committing.

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6. Glass Shower Panels

Replacing a shower curtain with a frameless glass panel instantly opens the room. Just be prepared to clean glass regularly—water spots are the trade-off for that airy feel.

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7. Wall-Mounted Toilets

This European-inspired solution saves space and gives a minimalist look. Installation can be more complex, but the payoff is both visual and practical.

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8. Mirror Magic

Oversized mirrors—or even an entire mirrored wall—double the light and perceived space. I once used mirror cabinets with hidden side lighting, and my client thought we’d added an extra two feet to her bathroom.

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9. Light Layering

A combination of overhead, task, and ambient lighting prevents shadows and keeps the bathroom feeling fresh. Dimmer switches give control for those middle-of-the-night visits. I like previewing lighting effects in a bathroom design tool before wiring begins.

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10. Neutral Palette with a Pop

In tight rooms, light neutrals expand the feel, while an accent color brings personality. One client painted just the back wall of her shower a deep teal, and it became the highlight of her morning routine.

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FAQ

Q1: Is 5x7 considered a small bathroom?

A: Yes, it’s generally classified as a small full bathroom. With planning, it can fit a shower or tub, toilet, and vanity comfortably.

Q2: Can I fit a bathtub in a 5x7 bathroom?

A: A standard 60-inch tub fits, but you might have to compromise on storage or vanity size.

Q3: How do I make a 5x7 bathroom look bigger?

A: Use light colors, large tiles, mirrors, and glass shower panels to enhance openness.

Q4: What’s the most efficient layout for a 5x7 bathroom?

A: The “three-in-a-row” layout (toilet, vanity, shower/tub along one wall) is a common, efficient arrangement.

Q5: Are wall-mounted toilets worth it?

A: Yes for space-saving, but they require more complex installation and usually cost more upfront.

Q6: How much will a remodel cost?

A: Depending on materials and labor in your area, small bath remodels range $5k–$15k on average according to Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report.

Q7: Can I use dark colors in a small bathroom?

A: Yes, as an accent. Too much dark color can make it feel smaller, but paired with light tones, it adds drama.

Q8: Should I hire a designer?

A: For tricky small spaces, a designer’s experience can help avoid costly mistakes and maximize every inch.