5 Small Bathroom Renovation Ideas in Perth: Smart, stylish and budget-aware small bathroom renovations for Perth homes — five practical ideas from a seasoned designer

I once installed a vanity upside down because I misread the measurements — the client laughed, I learned, and we fixed it before the photoshoot. Small bathrooms in Perth have a way of humbling you, but they also squeeze out the best design moves. Small space can spark big creativity, and I’ll share five renovation ideas that actually work, based on projects I’ve led across Perth.

1. Reclaim floor space with a wall-hung vanity

Switching to a wall-hung vanity makes the room feel instantly airier because your eye can travel under the unit. The upside is better visual space and easier floor cleaning; the challenge is ensuring the wall structure handles the load — sometimes a stud upgrade is needed. I used this in a Fremantle apartment and it opened up circulation without costing a fortune.

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2. Opt for a curved shower or quadrant enclosure

Curved showers fit neatly into tight corners and soften a cramped room’s geometry. They save a surprising amount of space compared to square trays, and the curved glass keeps sightlines open. The trade-off is slightly less interior floor area in the shower, but for most Perth households that’s a comfortable compromise.

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3. Use large-format tiles and continuous grout lines

Large tiles visually expand a small bathroom by reducing busy grout lines; running the same tile from floor to shower creates a seamless look that reads as larger. It can be pricier per tile, but installation time often drops, which balances cost. I recommend porcelain for Perth’s humidity and ease of maintenance.

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4. Introduce a shallow alcove or recessed shelving

Recessed niches keep toiletries out of the way while adding a purposeful design detail — I carved one into a load-bearing wall once and the mason’s creativity impressed the client. The benefit is storage without bulk; the challenge is accurate waterproofing, so always waterproof the cavity fully.

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5. Prioritise good lighting and a heated towel rail

Layered lighting and a heated towel rail make small bathrooms feel luxurious. A well-placed mirror light plus downlights removes shadows and enlarges the perceived space. The towel rail adds comfort for Perth’s cooler months; just be mindful of electrical planning near wet zones.

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Tips 1:

For layout planning I often sketch multiple options and then test them in a 3D mock-up so clients can ‘walk’ the space. If you want a quick visual, try the 3D floor planner to preview how changes affect flow and scale. Budget-wise, prioritise plumbing moves first — relocating drains drives costs up fast — and save on finishes by choosing a feature tile for one focal wall.

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FAQ

Q1: How much does a small bathroom renovation in Perth typically cost?

A1: Costs vary widely; simple cosmetic makeovers start from around AUD 6–8k, while full renovations with layout changes often range AUD 12–25k depending on fixtures and plumbing work.

Q2: How long does a renovation take?

A2: A basic refresh can take 1–2 weeks, while a full strip-out and re-lay usually takes 3–6 weeks including trades and waterproofing drying times.

Q3: Do I need council approval for a small bathroom remodel in Perth?

A3: Most internal renovations don’t require council approval unless you change structural elements or plumbing to the point of affecting drainage connections; always check local regulations.

Q4: What waterproofing standards should builders follow?

A4: Your contractor should follow the Australian Standard AS 3740 for waterproofing wet areas; this is a legal benchmark and protects against future leaks.

Q5: Can I keep the same bathroom layout to save money?

A5: Absolutely — keeping plumbing in the same location is the most reliable way to control costs; you can still refresh tiles, joinery, and fittings for a big impact.

Q6: Are heated towel rails worth the investment in Perth?

A6: Yes, they add comfort and dry towels faster, reducing mold risk; electric or hydronic options exist — pick based on your heating system and budget.

Q7: What materials work best for durability in Perth bathrooms?

A7: Porcelain tiles, solid-surface benchtops, and powder-coated or stainless fixtures handle humidity and coastal conditions well; avoid untreated timber in wet zones.

Q8: Where can I see realistic layout previews before renovating?

A8: I recommend using established tools like the free floor planner to create and visualise layouts before committing — it saves time and reduces costly mistakes. (Source: Australian Standard AS 3740 and building guidelines)

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