10 Smart Ideas for Small Bathrooms with Tubs: Space-saving and stylish tips from my 10+ years of interior designLena M. HartJan 20, 2026Table of ContentsIdea 1 Go Vertical with StorageIdea 2 Choose a Compact Tub ShapeIdea 3 Clear Glass Instead of a CurtainIdea 4 Light-Colored TilesIdea 5 Built-in NichesIdea 6 Mirror MagicIdea 7 Wall-Mounted FixturesIdea 8 Clever Lighting LayersIdea 9 Pocket or Sliding DoorsIdea 10 Consistent MaterialsFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOne time, a client asked me if we could fit a clawfoot tub, a double vanity, and a full laundry nook into her 4-square-meter bathroom. I almost choked on my coffee, but it turned into a fun challenge — and reminded me that small spaces often spark the most creative solutions. After more than a decade designing compact homes, I’ve found that a small bathroom with a tub is absolutely doable, you just need smart planning. Today, I’m sharing 10 ideas based on real projects that have worked wonders.Idea 1: Go Vertical with StorageIn small bathrooms, wall space is prime real estate. I like to use tall cabinets or floating shelves above the tub. Once I even used a recessed shelf that aligned perfectly with tile lines — a little trick I sketched using my bathroom layout sketches tool before demolition.save pinIdea 2: Choose a Compact Tub ShapeOval or Japanese soaking tubs can save floor area while still offering comfort. They not only fit better but also free up space for a slimmer vanity.save pinIdea 3: Clear Glass Instead of a CurtainA frameless glass panel makes the room feel wider, unlike a heavy curtain that closes off the space. Bonus: it shows off beautiful tiles you’ve paid for.save pinIdea 4: Light-Colored TilesUsing light shades like soft grey or off-white helps bounce light and gives the illusion of openness. Just remember, lighter grout may need more upkeep if you have kids splashing around.save pinIdea 5: Built-in NichesRecessed wall niches inside the tub area are a stylish way to store shampoo bottles without extra shelving. I once used patterned encaustic tiles inside the niche for an extra pop.save pinIdea 6: Mirror MagicLarge mirrors are my go-to trick for small spaces. Even a mirrored cabinet above the sink can double as hidden storage.save pinIdea 7: Wall-Mounted FixturesWall-hung sinks and toilets free up visible floor space, making the room feel less cramped. Planning these details early in a scaled floor plan helps avoid awkward pipe rerouting later.save pinIdea 8: Clever Lighting LayersA mix of overhead, task, and accent lighting brings depth. I’ve used waterproof LED strips along the tub skirt for a spa-like glow.save pinIdea 9: Pocket or Sliding DoorsWhen you can, swap a standard swing door for a sliding or pocket version — this frees wall and floor space without sacrificing privacy.save pinIdea 10: Consistent MaterialsUsing the same tile on floors and walls blurs edges and makes the bathroom feel bigger. I always double-check patterns in a 3D material preview to be sure the effect is seamless.save pinFAQQ: Can I have both a tub and decent storage in a small bathroom?A: Yes, but you’ll need to mix vertical storage, built-in niches, and compact fixtures.Q: What’s the smallest size for a practical tub?A: Japanese soaking tubs can be as small as 120cm long while still comfortable for most adults.Q: How do I avoid making a small bathroom look cluttered?A: Stick to a consistent color palette, choose clear glass, and reduce the number of visible items.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