Small Bathroom Separate Shower & Tub: 5 Ideas: Practical, stylish ways to fit a separate shower and tub into a tiny bathroom

I once had a client demand both a freestanding tub and a walk-in shower in a bathroom the size of a closet — and yes, I laughed, then sketched until 2 a.m. It taught me that small spaces force smarter choices, not compromises. If you want to keep both fixtures without turning your bathroom into a squeeze, start with a clear plan and a space-saving layout example that tests circulation before you commit.

Small bathrooms can spark big creativity. Below I share 5 real, used-in-the-field ideas that worked for tight projects, their practical upsides, and the little trade-offs to expect.

1. Corner Tub + Curved Glass Shower

Placing a compact corner soaking tub diagonally opposite a curved glass shower uses corners that otherwise collect clutter. I used this once on a 3.5 m² remodel — the curve gives elbow room and keeps sightlines open. The upside is a roomy feel without expanding footprint; the downside is custom glass can be pricier, so choose acrylic tub shells and a standard-radius curve to save money.

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2. Linear Wet Zone with Half-Height Divider

Create a single wet zone where shower and tub share drainage but are visually separated by a half-height tiled wall or glass block. It’s efficient for plumbing and maintenance, which my contractor loved during a tight-budget reno. Expect a slightly reduced tub width, but you gain cohesion and easier cleaning — a win if you’re practical over luxurious.

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3. Walk-in Shower Adjacent to Compact Soaking Tub

Push the shower and tub side-by-side along one long wall to free up floor space for the vanity and door swing. This arrangement worked beautifully in an apartment where we needed maximum circulation; the result felt like a boutique hotel despite modest square meters. If you want visuals before demo, try a clever wet-dry partition idea in a mockup to test placement and sightlines.

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4. Raised Tub Platform with Sliding Glass

Raising a shallower tub on a narrow platform lets you tuck a sliding glass shower door behind it, avoiding the swing conflict of hinged doors. I recommended this to a client who loved baths but hated cramped doors; the platform gives storage beneath and a spa vibe. Note: plan waterproofing carefully — platform details add cost but reward you with functionality and hidden storage.

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5. Wall-Mounted Fixtures + Vertical Storage

Use a shallow tub and wall-mounted toilet and sink to reclaim floor area, then stack storage vertically above the tub or in recessed niches. I confess I love this trick — it makes the room breathe. For final presentations I often produce a 3D visual mockup so clients can see scale; the trade-off is less under-sink storage, which you can offset with clever shelving or mirrored cabinets.

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FAQ

1. Can I fit both a tub and a shower in a bathroom under 5 m²?

Yes. With space-conscious tubs (shorter length or soaking style) and clever layouts like side-by-side or corner placements, it’s very doable. Prioritize circulation and door swing early in the plan.

2. What tub type is best for tight bathrooms?

Compact soaking tubs or square tubs save length while still offering a bath experience. Avoid overly deep or long freestanding tubs unless you have the footprint to match.

3. Is shared drainage for tub and shower a good idea?

Often yes — combining drains within a wet zone simplifies plumbing and waterproofing. Your plumber should confirm slopes and trap arrangements to meet local code.

4. Are sliding doors better than hinged doors in small baths?

Sliding or pocket doors save swing space and are generally more practical in compact layouts. Hinged doors can work if positioned carefully with clearances planned.

5. How do I budget for a layout that includes both fixtures?

Expect higher costs for glass partitions and platform construction, but save in other areas with standard fixtures, acrylic tubs, and wall-mounted hardware. I usually recommend a simple 10–15% contingency for unforeseen tweaks.

6. What lighting works best in compact bathrooms?

Layered lighting — recessed ceiling lights plus task lighting at the vanity and warm accents near the tub — expands perceived space. A frosted window or high clerestory is a bonus if you can add it.

7. Any rules about wet-dry separation standards?

Follow local building codes for waterproofing and ventilation; industry best practices are summarized by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) and similar authorities (see NKBA: https://www.nkba.org). Proper venting and tile/waterproof membranes are non-negotiable.

8. How can I preview designs before committing?

Mockups and 3D visuals are a lifesaver — they reveal door conflicts and scale issues before demo. I always recommend a quick visual mockup to clients so we can iterate cheaply instead of during construction.

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