10 Bathroom Remodeling Ideas for Small Master Bathrooms: Smart, Stylish, and Space-Savvy Design Tips from My ProjectsElena WeiSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Go Vertical with Storage2. Swap the Tub for a Spacious Shower3. Use Large-Format Tiles4. Floating Vanity Magic5. Mirror + Lighting Duo6. Pocket Doors Save the Day7. All-White Palette with Texture8. Corner Sink for the Win9. Built-In Niches10. Mix Open and Closed StorageFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEA few years ago, a client asked me to design a small master bathroom that could fit a freestanding tub, double vanity, and a walk-in shower — all in under 50 square feet. At first, I laughed inside (quietly), but that challenge taught me that small spaces often spark the boldest ideas. Today, I’m sharing 10 bathroom remodeling ideas I’ve used in real projects, perfect for small master bathrooms where every inch counts.1. Go Vertical with StorageIn tiny bathrooms, walls are your best friends. I’ve installed tall recessed shelves that fit between wall studs, giving clients room for towels and skincare without eating into floor space. Sometimes I mock up the layout with a detailed room planner so clients can visualize exactly how much storage they gain.save pin2. Swap the Tub for a Spacious ShowerMany people think a tub is a must, but in a small master bath, a walk-in shower can feel more open and luxurious. Adding frameless glass keeps sightlines clear, making the room look larger.save pin3. Use Large-Format TilesCounterintuitive as it sounds, bigger tiles create fewer grout lines and make a small room feel calmer and less cluttered. I’ve used 24" x 48" tiles even in 40 sq ft bathrooms with great results.save pin4. Floating Vanity MagicA floating vanity exposes more floor, giving the illusion of space. Plus, you can tuck a small basket or stool underneath. The only tricky part is hiding plumbing cleanly, but once that's solved, it’s a game changer.save pin5. Mirror + Lighting DuoLighting is not just functional; it changes mood and depth perception. I like using a backlit mirror with warm LEDs to create a soft, spacious glow.save pin6. Pocket Doors Save the DayTraditional swing doors can waste precious space. Switching to a pocket or barn door often frees up enough space for an extra cabinet — something I’ve confirmed through precise floor plan drafts before demolition begins.save pin7. All-White Palette with TextureWhite surfaces bounce light, but to avoid looking sterile, I layer in textures like matte subway tiles, woven baskets, or stone sinks. It’s a balance between airy and inviting.save pin8. Corner Sink for the WinIn awkward layouts, a corner sink can open up traffic flow. The main compromise is smaller counter space, but in some cases, it’s worth it to avoid hip-bumping the vanity every morning.save pin9. Built-In NichesShowers often have wasted wall space. I build in recessed niches for shampoo and soap — no more clunky hanging caddies. A project I once did combined these with hidden LED strips, which looked like art installations.save pin10. Mix Open and Closed StorageOpen shelves make the room feel airy, while closed cabinets hide the mess. Using both keeps the design practical yet charming. Mapping out this balance is easier with a quick bathroom planning mockup so everyone’s on the same page before we start cutting wood.save pinFAQQ: Can I fit a tub and shower in a small master bathroom?A: Yes, but you’ll likely need to use a combined tub-shower or choose compact fixtures to keep the space functional.Q: How do I make my bathroom look bigger without tearing down walls?A: Use large tiles, plenty of light, and minimal visual clutter. Floating vanities and glass shower doors help too.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