10 Best 5x9 Bathroom Ideas: Small Space, Big Style – My Favorite 5x9 Bathroom Design Inspirations

One time, I almost put a full-size clawfoot tub into a client’s 5x9 bathroom… until we realized the door wouldn’t open. That project taught me that small bathrooms can spark the biggest creativity. Over the years, I’ve collected some favorite tricks, and today I’m sharing my top 10 design ideas for making a 5x9 space feel bigger, smarter, and way more stylish.

1. Go for a Pocket Door

A sliding pocket door can save up to 10 inches of swing space, giving you more room for storage or a larger vanity. Just keep in mind the wall needs to be clear of plumbing and wiring.

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2. Floating Vanity Magic

Mounting the vanity off the floor makes the room feel airy and lets light bounce underneath. In one project, I used a wall-mounted unit from a local carpenter and paired it with a custom mirror to visually double the space.

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3. Large Format Tiles

Contrary to common belief, big tiles in a small bathroom can make it feel larger because of fewer grout lines. I’ve used this trick alongside a bathroom design tool to preview patterns before committing.

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4. Recessed Storage Niche

Cutting into the wall for a shower niche or cabinet creates functional storage without taking up floor area. It’s a small investment with a high impact.

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5. Bold Accent Wall

I once painted the far wall in deep navy for a client, and it gave the illusion of greater depth. Just keep the other walls light to maintain balance.

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6. Frameless Glass Shower

Switching from a curtain to seamless glass removes visual barriers. In one 5x9 bathroom, combining this with a walk-in shower planned in free floor plan creator completely transformed the space.

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7. Wall-to-Wall Mirror

This is my go-to for instant spaciousness. Just ensure you have proper ventilation to prevent mirror fogging.

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8. Light Color Palette

Soft whites, creams, or pastels help bounce light around, making walls recede visually.

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9. Vertical Storage Units

Think tall, slim cabinets to hold towels and toiletries. I designed one with hidden shelves, visualized first in a 3D floor planner to check fit.

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10. Statement Lighting

Even in a small bathroom, a chic pendant or layered lighting can add drama — just mind the clearance height.

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FAQ

1. How can I make a 5x9 bathroom feel larger?

Use light colors, mirrors, and minimal barriers like frameless glass to create visual space.

2. Is a bathtub possible in a 5x9 bathroom?

Yes, but a small soaking tub or shower-tub combo works best to maintain comfort.

3. What’s the best storage solution?

Recessed niches and vertical shelving maximize space without cluttering the floor area.

4. Should I use large or small tiles?

Large-format tiles can reduce grout lines, making the room look more open, according to NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association) guidelines.

5. How do I plan my layout?

Using a digital planner like Coohom helps visualize different arrangements before renovations start.

6. Are dark colors okay in small bathrooms?

Yes, in moderation — use them on one wall or the floor to create depth while keeping the rest light.

7. How can I improve lighting?

Layered lighting — ceiling, task, and accent — ensures functionality and mood.

8. Can I fit double sinks in a 5x9 bathroom?

It’s possible with a small double vanity or side-by-side pedestal sinks, but storage may be reduced.