5x8 3-Piece Bathroom Layout Ideas: 10 Creative Ways to Make the Most of a 5x8 Bathroom

The other day, I was looking at one of my very first apartment renovation photos and almost burst out laughing — I had placed the toilet directly in front of the shower door. Functional? Barely. Stylish? Not even close. That "oops" moment taught me that small bathrooms, especially a 5x8 three-piece layout, can be tricky but also the perfect place for clever design. And I promise, with the right approach, you'll be amazed at how much you can do with just 40 square feet.

1. Classic Linear Layout

This is the easiest to plan: all three fixtures along one wall. It’s construction-friendly and often cost-efficient. The downside? It can look a bit corridor-like, but you can warm it up with bold tile choices or playful lighting inspired by some room planner mock-ups.

save pin

2. Split Wet and Dry Zones

Putting the shower at one end, with the toilet and sink closer to the door, keeps water in its place. Great for families or shared homes, but you might need an extra panel or half-wall to really separate the zones.

save pin

3. Corner Shower with Floating Vanity

This combo instantly opens up the walking space. A triangular or curved shower saves precious inches, though it’s trickier to find a perfectly fitting glass door. The floating vanity adds visual lightness—just remember to plan plumbing carefully.

save pin

4. Pocket Door Magic

Swapping a swing door for a pocket door feels like gaining extra square footage. You could even convert the saved space into slimmer storage or a towel warmer nook.

save pin

5. Back-to-Back Plumbing Wall

If your budget allows, put the shower and toilet back-to-back on one wall, with the vanity opposite. This compact yet efficient setup also simplifies pipework, as in some free floor plan creator sketches I’ve used for clients.

save pin

6. Glass Divider Illusion

Replacing a shower curtain with a clear glass panel makes the room feel much bigger. It’s also easy to clean, though in colder climates you might miss the cozy steam that a curtain holds inside.

save pin

7. L-Shaped Layout

Placing the shower and vanity on one wall and angling the toilet slightly on the adjacent wall can create a natural flow. It’s a little unconventional, but that’s exactly why it works for some spaces.

save pin

8. Sliding Shower Door

A swinging glass door can be a space hog in 5x8 bathrooms. A sliding door is practical and sleek, and pairs beautifully with floor-to-ceiling tiles for a seamless look.

save pin

9. Continuous Floor Tile

Running the same tile throughout the bathroom, even into the shower, blurs boundaries and visually enlarges the space. Just make sure to select a tile with proper slip resistance, as shown in some of my favorite bathroom design tool layouts.

save pin

10. Open Shelf Storage

In a compact bath, switching from bulky cabinets to open shelving can help maintain openness. But be ready to keep things neatly arranged—or embrace the artful clutter look.

save pin

FAQ

1. What is a 3-piece bathroom? A 3-piece bathroom includes a toilet, sink, and either a shower or bathtub in one space.

2. Is 5x8 a standard bathroom size? Yes, 5x8 feet is a common size for a small full bath, often found in older homes or apartments.

3. Can a 5x8 bathroom fit a bathtub? Yes, but it’s typically a standard 60-inch tub along one wall with the sink and toilet arranged alongside or opposite.

4. How can I make my 5x8 bathroom seem bigger? Use clear glass, light colors, large-format tiles, and good lighting to visually expand the space.

5. What’s the most efficient layout for plumbing? A back-to-back or single-wall layout minimizes pipe runs and reduces labor costs.

6. Is underfloor heating worth it in a small bathroom? It can be—heat spreads evenly, saves wall space, and adds comfort, especially on cold mornings.

7. How much does it cost to renovate a 5x8 bathroom? Depending on finishes and plumbing changes, it can range from $5,000 to $15,000 in the US (source: NKBA).

8. Should I choose a shower or tub in a small bath? If resale value matters, include a tub where possible; otherwise, a walk-in shower can make the most of the space.