5 Bathroom Remodel Ideas 2023: Practical, small-space bathroom remodel ideas for 2023 from a senior designer

I once had a client who wanted a spa, a laundry chute and a powder room all squeezed into a 5-foot-wide bathroom — and I loved the challenge. Right away I sketched a few unconventional moves that became some of my favorite bathroom design ideas, and that tiny project taught me how small spaces can spark big creativity. If you’re hunting for bathroom remodel ideas 2023, I’ll walk you through five approaches I actually used on real jobs.

1. Wet-room shower for maximum openness

Turn the shower into a wet room to visually expand the space: a single plane of tile and a glass screen or half wall makes the bathroom feel continuous. The upside is a modern, accessible layout that’s easy to clean; the downside is waterproofing must be done right, so budget for proper membrane and drain work.

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2. Vertical storage and recessed niches

I love using vertical space — tall cabinets, recessed niches, and stacked storage keep the floor free and make tiny bathrooms usable. It’s an affordable win: custom niches during a tile job cost little but add big functionality, though you’ll need to coordinate plumbing and studs carefully.

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3. Floating vanities and pocket doors for flow

Floating vanities create the illusion of more floor area and allow for lighting underneath, which makes the room feel airier. Pair that with a pocket or sliding door for real circulation gains; if you want to test layouts before committing, a free floor plan creator can help you visualize cabinet widths and swing clearances.

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4. Mix bold tile with calm fixtures

I once used a bold encaustic tile on the floor and kept the walls simple white — the result felt tailored, not busy. The trick is to pick one statement surface and balance it with matte fixtures or wood accents; this approach is high-impact on a moderate budget, but patterned tiles can be hard to match later if you want to change styles.

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5. Smart tech, heated floors and realistic previews

Heated floors, low-flow fixtures, and touchless taps make small bathrooms more luxurious and functional without changing footprint. I always encourage clients to see a realistic 3D render before ordering finishes so they know how light and texture perform together — it cuts costly mistakes and gives confidence during selections.

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FAQ

Q1: What’s a budget-friendly way to remodel a bathroom in 2023?

Start with layout tweaks (like swapping a swing door for a pocket door) and replace visible finishes—vanity, mirror, hardware—before tearing out plumbing. Small cosmetic changes often deliver the biggest perceived upgrade for the least money.

Q2: How long does a typical bathroom remodel take?

A small bathroom refresh can take 2–4 weeks; a full gut remodel usually runs 6–10 weeks depending on permits, plumbing moves and tile work. Always build a buffer for tile curing and unexpected plumbing issues.

Q3: Are heated floors worth it?

For many clients they’re a top comfort upgrade and add resale appeal, especially in cold climates. Installation adds to the initial cost but can be zoned and controlled to conserve energy.

Q4: How can I make a small bathroom look larger?

Use continuous flooring, wall-mounted fixtures, glass shower screens and a light, limited palette. Mirrors and consistent grout lines also help create visual continuity and perceived depth.

Q5: What are eco-friendly fixture options?

Choose WaterSense-labeled faucets and showerheads, low-flow toilets, and LED lighting. These choices reduce water and energy use without sacrificing performance; for guidance see the EPA WaterSense program at https://www.epa.gov/watersense.

Q6: Should I hire a designer for a small bathroom?

If your project involves layout changes, plumbing moves or high-end finishes, a designer saves money by avoiding mistakes and optimizing every inch. For simple cosmetic refreshes, clear mood boards and a solid plan often suffice.

Q7: How do I preview finishes before buying?

Ask for samples, view materials under your home lighting, and use realistic 3D previews to see how textures and colors interact. A 3D mockup can reveal scale issues you won’t notice in small samples.

Q8: Can I remodel a bathroom myself to save money?

DIY can be good for painting and installing accessories, but plumbing, electrical and waterproofing are best handled by pros. Mistakes in wet areas lead to expensive repairs later, so budget for expert help on critical systems.

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