10 Smart 5x5 Bathroom Design Ideas: Creative small-space tips from my 10+ years of design experience

Once, a client asked me if we could fit a soaking tub, a double vanity, and a washer-dryer into a 5x5 bathroom. I laughed, then started sketching anyway. Small spaces like this really push me to stretch every inch, and over the years, I’ve learned that a compact bathroom can be just as luxurious as a big one—if you know the tricks. Today, I’m sharing 10 design ideas I’ve actually used to make tiny bathrooms both beautiful and functional.

1. Float Your Vanity

Installing a wall-mounted vanity frees up floor space, instantly making the room feel bigger. Plus, you can tuck baskets or a scale underneath. When I used a floating vanity in one project, pairing it with a light oak finish, the client swore the bathroom felt twice the size.

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2. Use a Sliding Door

Traditional swing doors steal precious space. Switching to a pocket or barn-style sliding door is a game changer. In one remodel, I used the room planner tool to test different door positions before committing—saved us from a costly mistake.

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3. Go Vertical with Storage

Think tall instead of wide—stack open shelves above the toilet or add a narrow floor-to-ceiling cabinet. It keeps essentials handy without eating into the footprint, though you’ll want to keep the look minimal to avoid feeling cramped.

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4. Install a Corner Sink

In tight bathrooms, every inch counts. A compact corner sink can open up precious central space. I once used this trick in a 1920s bungalow—suddenly, there was room to move without awkward sidestepping.

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5. Opt for Glass Shower Panels

Swapping a shower curtain for clear glass removes visual barriers and lets light flow. In a recent 5x5 remodel, this alone made the space feel airy. Just remember: glass shows water spots quickly, so maintenance is key.

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6. Big Tiles, Small Space

It may sound counterintuitive, but larger tiles mean fewer grout lines, which creates a more seamless look. I also like to run the same tile on walls and floors for even more visual continuity—tested it with the free floor plan creator to nail the proportions.

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7. Play with Light and Mirrors

Adding an oversized mirror and layered lighting changes everything. One client walked in after installation and said, “It doesn’t feel like the same room.” Just avoid a single harsh ceiling light—it will emphasize shadows.

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8. Use Niche Shelving in the Shower

Instead of bulky caddies, recess a shelf into your shower wall. It looks sleek and doesn’t intrude into shower space. Pro tip: line the back of the niche with a contrasting tile for a designer touch.

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9. Keep the Palette Light

White, soft gray, and pale neutrals bounce light around, helping small bathrooms feel bigger. I sometimes add a single bold accent, but keep the rest consistent—used this principle on a recent bathroom design tool mock-up and the resulting mood boards came out stunning.

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10. Wall-Mounted Toilet

If budget allows, choose a wall-hung toilet. It hides the tank inside the wall and makes cleaning easier. The installation is trickier, but the extra floor space and sleek look can be worth it.

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FAQ

1. Can a 5x5 bathroom have a shower and tub?

Possible, but it’s very tight. A compact tub-shower combo or Japanese soaking tub can work if you plan carefully.

2. How much does it cost to remodel a 5x5 bathroom?

Depending on finishes, it can range from $4,000 to $12,000. Luxury materials or plumbing changes push costs higher.

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

Line up fixtures along one wall to maximize moving space. This is backed by NKBA space planning guidelines (National Kitchen & Bath Association).

4. How do I make a small bathroom feel bigger?

Use light colors, large tiles, mirrors, and minimal clutter. Good lighting also makes a huge difference.

5. Are wall-mounted toilets worth it?

They save floor space and look modern, but cost more to install and repair. Consider them in higher-end remodels.

6. How can I add storage in a small bathroom?

Go vertical with cabinets, use recessed niches, and choose multi-use furniture like mirrored cabinets.

7. Can I DIY a 5x5 bathroom remodel?

You can handle cosmetic updates like painting or hardware. Plumbing, tiling, and waterproofing are better left to pros.

8. Does a small bathroom hurt resale value?

No—if it’s well-designed, it can even add value. Buyers appreciate clever, stylish small-space solutions.