10 Bathroom Ensuite Ideas to Maximize Comfort: Small ensuite, big style—10 ideas from my real design projectsMarina WestbrookJan 20, 2026Table of Contents1. Pocket Doors for Instant Space Gain2. Wall-Mounted Vanity3. Large Tiles in Light Shades4. Corner Shower Cubicles5. Slimline Storage Solutions6. Recessed Wall Niches7. Mirror Magic8. Heated Towel Rails9. Wet Room Style10. Skylights or Sun TunnelsFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOne time, a client asked me if we could turn her tiny storage room into an ensuite. No windows, barely enough room to turn around—at first, I thought she was joking. But honestly, small spaces bring out the best creativity. Over the years, I’ve found that an ensuite doesn’t need to be huge to feel like a little sanctuary, and today I’m sharing 10 ideas from my own projects that might inspire you to try a smart bathroom upgrade yourself. If you’re just sketching layouts right now, tools like a bathroom design tool can save a lot of guesswork in the early stage.1. Pocket Doors for Instant Space GainTraditional swing doors eat up valuable floor space. A sleek pocket door slides into the wall, leaving more usable area inside the ensuite. The installation can be a bit more involved, especially in older homes, but the payoff in space is worth it.save pin2. Wall-Mounted VanityFloating vanities create an airy feel and make it easier to clean the floor. They also allow for clever under-vanity storage baskets. Just make sure the wall can support the weight if you plan on using stone countertops.save pin3. Large Tiles in Light ShadesUsing oversized tiles reduces grout lines, making the space feel bigger and easier to clean. Light neutrals bounce more light around, which is particularly helpful in windowless ensuites.save pin4. Corner Shower CubiclesI once fit a shower into a space that measured just 80cm across by choosing a curved corner cubicle. Compact showers require precise measurements, so working from an accurate floor plan is essential—exactly where a free floor plan creator really shines.save pin5. Slimline Storage SolutionsShallow shelves above the toilet or alongside the mirror offer storage without encroaching into the room. You’ll be surprised how much you can store in just 15cm of depth.save pin6. Recessed Wall NichesPerfect for shampoo bottles or extra towels, niches make use of wall cavities and keep surfaces clutter-free. The only catch: you need to plan them before tiling begins.save pin7. Mirror MagicMirrors double the visual size of your ensuite and brighten it up. Frameless, wall-to-wall mirrors are a trick I use for clients who want that hotel-style vibe without gutting the space.save pin8. Heated Towel RailsIt’s a little luxury that makes winter mornings feel special. Plus, it saves wall space compared to bulky towel racks. You can even choose an electric version to avoid extra plumbing.save pin9. Wet Room StyleBy integrating the shower with the entire floor space, you ditch the need for a separate cubicle, making even the tiniest ensuite feel spacious. Waterproofing is critical though—an area where consulting a pro or even exploring an 3D floor planner visual can help avoid costly mistakes.save pin10. Skylights or Sun TunnelsIf you own the top floor, adding a skylight brings natural light and ventilation. It’s an investment, but natural light completely transforms how fresh and open the space feels.save pinFAQQ: What’s the smallest practical size for an ensuite?A: I’ve designed functional ensuites in as little as 1.2m x 2m, but thoughtful layout and storage design are key.Q: Is underfloor heating worth it?A: For small ensuites, yes. It warms the whole room evenly and keeps the floor dry, adding comfort without taking up wall space.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