10 Smart Ideas for a 5x8 Bathroom Renovation: Small space, big style: 10 creative ways to transform your 5x8 bathroom

One time, a client handed me a Pinterest board full of luxury spa bathrooms… then told me her space was 5x8 feet and her budget “somewhere south of an iPhone.” I almost laughed, but I’ve learned small bathrooms are where the magic happens. With the right planning, even a 5x8 can surprise you — and today I’m sharing 10 of my favorite design ideas drawn straight from real projects.

1. Use a Floating Vanity

By lifting the vanity off the floor, you instantly make the room feel bigger and airier. I once swapped in a slim floating unit for a chunky cabinet, and it gave clients more toe room and visual space.

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2. Go for a Glass Shower Enclosure

Frameless glass keeps sight lines clear, unlike bulky curtains. In one project, using a clear panel made a 5x8 bath feel twice as wide — plus, it shows off pretty tile work. When planning with a bathroom design tool, you can test different layouts before committing.

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3. Add a Large Mirror

I’ve used a mirror spanning the entire vanity wall, and it doubled the visual depth. The trick is to mount it slightly higher if space is tight, so it reflects more light.

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4. Opt for Light, Reflective Colors

Whites, soft grays, and light beiges bounce light around, making the space brighter. Just be sure to add a few warm textures so it doesn’t feel sterile.

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5. Install Recessed Shelving

Carving into the wall between studs for shampoo niches or towel storage saves precious inches. I once found enough space for a hidden shelf just by removing unnecessary drywall layers — it’s these little tricks that keep a small remodel under budget.

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6. Maximize Vertical Space

Floor space is gold in a 5x8, so I often build storage up to the ceiling. Combining tall cabinets with open cubbies can give both hidden and display space. I even tested few setups in a free floor plan creator before finalizing dimensions.

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7. Choose a Sliding Door

Replacing a swing door with a pocket or barn-style slider frees up valuable space for storage or a larger shower.

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8. Layer Lighting

Adding both overhead and task lights prevents shadows and makes the room feel inviting. I love putting an LED strip under floating shelves — subtle but game-changing.

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9. Hide the Toilet Cistern

In-wall tanks are brilliant for a clean, modern look. Yes, it’s a bigger upfront investment, but the streamlined feel more than makes up for it.

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10. Play with Pattern

Small doesn’t have to mean plain. A patterned floor tile or bold accent wall in the shower can make a 5x8 feel curated and intentional. I once pulled off a stunning transformation by visualizing it first in a 3D floor planner — and my client was sold instantly.

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FAQ

1. What is the average cost to renovate a 5x8 bathroom?

On average, a modest 5x8 bathroom renovation ranges from $4,500 to $9,000, depending on materials and labor rates in your area.

2. Can I fit both a tub and a shower in a 5x8 bathroom?

It’s possible with compact fixtures, but usually one or the other works better for comfort and flow.

3. What’s the best layout for a 5x8 bathroom?

Most layouts position the tub or shower along one short wall, toilet next, then vanity opposite. This keeps walking space open.

4. How can I make a small bathroom look bigger?

Use light colors, mirrors, glass enclosures, and proper lighting. These tricks visually expand tight spaces.

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

Larger tiles with thin grout lines can make the room feel bigger, though small mosaic accents can add character.

6. How much lighting does a 5x8 bathroom need?

Ideally, a mix of ambient (overhead) and task (mirror) lighting, totaling 50–75 lumens per square foot, per IES standards.

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

Yes, because it adds comfort without taking wall or counter space. Costs are lower for smaller areas.

8. Do I need a permit for a 5x8 bathroom renovation?

Usually yes, if you alter plumbing or electrical. Check your local building codes for exact requirements.