5x8 Bathroom Ideas with Tub Shower – 10 Inspirations: My personal take on transforming a compact 5x8 bathroom into a functional and beautiful space with a tub shower.Marina LoftwellSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Float the Vanity2. Glass Panel Instead of Full Shower Curtain3. Use Vertical Storage Above the Toilet4. Narrow but Deep Vanity Drawers5. Light, Reflective Tiles6. Built-in Shower Niches7. Pocket Door Instead of Swing Door8. Strategic Lighting Layers9. Narrow Tub Models10. Cohesive Color PaletteFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEI’ll be honest – one of my first bathroom remodel projects nearly gave me grey hair. The client handed me a 5x8 space and insisted on keeping the tub *and* adding storage. At that moment, I realized small spaces don't limit you – they challenge you to think smarter. That little project is actually what sparked my obsession with small bathroom layouts.1. Float the VanityA floating vanity visually opens the floor space and makes cleaning a breeze. In a 5x8 bathroom, this trick can make the tub-shower combo feel less cramped. I once paired a white floating vanity with backlit mirrors – the client said it felt like stepping into a boutique hotel. For planning tricky placements, tools like a room planner are a godsend.save pin2. Glass Panel Instead of Full Shower CurtainInstead of a full shower curtain, use a fixed glass panel. It stops splashes but lets the eye travel across the room, making it feel bigger. The only drawback? You'll need to keep it clean to avoid water spots – totally worth it for the airy vibe.save pin3. Use Vertical Storage Above the ToiletIn tiny bathrooms, every inch counts. Shelves or cabinets above the toilet give you extra storage without eating up floor space. Just be mindful of open shelving – it’s charming, but also a dust magnet if not maintained.save pin4. Narrow but Deep Vanity DrawersDeep drawers beat doors for easy access in a narrow bathroom. You can keep all your grooming gear organized and out of sight, which matters when your tub-shower is just a step away from everything else.save pin5. Light, Reflective TilesGlossy subway tiles or large-format porcelain reflect more light and make a small room sparkle. I once used pale aqua tiles in a coastal-themed remodel, and it instantly lifted the mood of the space.save pin6. Built-in Shower NichesIf you hate clutter around the tub edge, a built-in niche is non-negotiable. It keeps your shampoo and soap neatly out of the way, and it looks much more intentional than an over-the-tub caddy.save pin7. Pocket Door Instead of Swing DoorSwitching to a pocket door can free up precious clearance space for storage or extra movement. This can be the difference between a cramped and a comfortable tub-shower layout.save pin8. Strategic Lighting LayersDon't rely only on one overhead light. Combine recessed lights, vanity sconces, and even LED strips inside niches. While designing, I often map lighting with a free floor plan creator to see exactly how shadows and highlights will fall.save pin9. Narrow Tub ModelsIf you need the soaking experience but are short on width, look for narrower tub models designed for small bathrooms. Just make sure they're deep enough to keep the spa feel intact.save pin10. Cohesive Color PalettePick 2–3 colors max and keep them consistent from floor to ceiling. This creates flow and makes a 5x8 bathroom with a tub shower look larger. When I did a beige-white-brass combo, even I was surprised at how luxe it felt. For perfect coordination, a bathroom design tool can help you visualize before you commit.save pinFAQ1. Can you fit a tub and shower in a 5x8 bathroom?Yes, a standard 60-inch tub fits perfectly along one wall, leaving space for a toilet and small vanity.2. What is the best layout for a 5x8 bathroom?Placing the tub along the short wall opposite the entry and keeping fixtures in a line saves plumbing costs and maximizes space.3. How do you make a small bathroom look bigger?Use light colors, large-format tiles, and glass panels. According to Houzz (2023), reflective surfaces enhance perceived space.4. Is a pocket door worth it in a small bathroom?Definitely. Pocket doors save swing clearance and can free up to 10 square feet of usable space.5. How wide should a small vanity be?In a 5x8 bathroom, 18–24 inches is ideal to balance function without crowding the tub-shower area.6. Are built-in niches waterproof?Yes, if they are properly constructed with waterproof backer and sealed grout, they are safe for daily shower use.7. What lighting is best for small bathrooms?Layered lighting with dimmable options. Use LED strips for niches and sconces for task lighting.8. Can I DIY a tub-shower remodel?Yes, but expect challenges with waterproofing and plumbing. For layout planning, digital tools help avoid costly mistakes.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE