10 Smart Design Ideas for a 5x12 Bathroom: Creative tips from my 10+ years of interior design experience to make the most of a 5x12 bathroom.

Once, a client told me she wanted her narrow 5x12 bathroom to feel “like a spa in Bali” but still fit a washer, a double vanity, and a soaking tub. I laughed, then I realized… with the right layout, even a small space can surprise you. That’s the magic of small spaces: they challenge us to think smarter, not just bigger. In this post, I’m sharing 10 of my favorite design moves that have worked again and again (and saved a few projects from disaster). And yes, I’ve tested most of them in real homes using tools like room planner to visualize options before committing.

1. Floating Vanity for Extra Floor Space

A floating vanity instantly makes a narrow bathroom feel more open. The visible floor trick gives the illusion of a wider walkway. Just remember: plumbing needs to be carefully positioned.

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2. Walk-in Shower with Glass Panels

Swapping a bulky tub for a sleek walk-in shower keeps sight lines open. Glass helps bounce light around, making a 5x12 feel longer. One downside—it shows water spots, so keep a squeegee handy.

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3. Pocket Door Instead of Swing Door

Traditional doors eat up precious inches. A pocket door slides into the wall, freeing up space for storage or a towel rack right behind it.

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4. Large-format Tiles

Counterintuitive but true—bigger tiles mean fewer grout lines, which can make a compact bathroom feel seamless. I love pairing them with a light grout color for a minimalist vibe.

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5. Clever Vertical Storage

Think tall shelving or cabinets above the toilet. It’s amazing how much clutter you can clear just by going up. For planning tricky corners, I often test layouts in a free floor plan creator before buying furniture.

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6. Skylight or Solar Tube

If you can, bring in natural light from above. It floods the entire length of a narrow bathroom without eating into wall space.

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7. Mix of Task and Ambient Lighting

Layered lighting prevents shadows in tight spaces. Wall sconces at mirror height plus recessed ceiling lights can do wonders for both functionality and mood.

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8. Open Shelving with Style

Open shelves keep essentials within reach and act as décor. The challenge: they force you to be tidy, or you’ll end up showcasing your clutter.

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9. Consistent Color Palette

Stick to two or three shades max to avoid visual overcrowding. Monochrome tones can make your bathroom look bigger than it is.

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10. Multipurpose Fixtures

A mirror cabinet, a shower bench with hidden storage—these pieces do double duty. They’re a lifesaver when every inch matters. I once transformed a cramped plan with the help of an bathroom design tool—it opened the client’s eyes to how flexible a 5x12 can be.

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FAQ

1. How can I make my 5x12 bathroom look bigger?

Use glass shower panels, light colors, large-format tiles, and keep the floor space visible to trick the eye.

2. Is it possible to fit a bathtub in a 5x12 bathroom?

Yes, but consider a small soaking tub or Japanese-style deep tub to save length while keeping comfort.

3. What is the best layout for a 5x12 bathroom?

It depends on your door and window placement; a common solution is a vanity near the entrance, toilet in the middle, and shower/tub at the far end.

4. How much does it cost to renovate a 5x12 bathroom?

On average, $6,000–$15,000 in the U.S., depending on finishes and fixtures, according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association.

5. Can I install double sinks in a 5x12 bathroom?

Yes, with a narrower double vanity or wall-mounted sinks, but make sure there’s still enough clearance to move comfortably.

6. Is underfloor heating worth it in a small bathroom?

Definitely—it adds comfort and frees you from bulky radiators, especially useful in narrow rooms.

7. How do I add storage without crowding the space?

Use vertical cabinets, recessed niches in the shower, and multi-function furniture.

8. Should I hire a designer or DIY my small bathroom remodel?

If budget allows, a designer can prevent costly mistakes and suggest optimizations you might miss solo. A tool like Coohom's planners can help DIYers visualize their ideas before starting.