5 Small Bathroom Cabinet Designs You’ll Love: My tried-and-true space-saving ideas for your tiny bathroom

As someone who has designed dozens of compact homes, I’ve learned that small spaces truly spark big creativity. Current interior design trends favor clean lines, smart storage, and materials that make a room feel larger. Today I’m sharing 5 small bathroom cabinet designs that blend my own project experiences with data from trusted design sources—so you can make the most of every inch of your bathroom.

Minimalist floating vanity

My Take: I used a minimalist floating vanity in my own apartment’s bathroom renovation, and it transformed the space. The wall-mounted design freed up the floor, which instantly made the room feel airier.

Pros: Cleans lines pair well with small bathroom layouts, and the open space underneath helps visually expand the floor area. According to Houzz 2023 trend data, floating vanities are one of the top 5 choices for modern small bathrooms.

Cons: Limited storage compared to full cabinets, and plumbing concealment can be tricky during installation.

Tip: Combine it with under-sink baskets for extra storage flexibility. Check out this case of Minimalist floating vanity renovation to see how it works in practice.

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Recessed wall cabinet

My Take: In one remodel for a young couple, we installed a recessed wall cabinet above the toilet. It was almost invisible but held all their toiletries neatly.

Pros: Maximizes wall depth without protruding into your limited footprint, and blends seamlessly with the wall finish. This is a great solution for those who want a discrete look.

Cons: Requires some wall modification, and might not be feasible in all buildings due to plumbing or wiring in the walls.

Case: Pairing a recessed unit with soft-close doors keeps noise to a minimum and adds a premium feel.

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Mirror-front storage cabinet

My Take: On a recent bathroom upgrade, I chose a mirror-front cabinet, and it worked double duty—storage plus the illusion of a larger space.

Pros: A mirrored surface bounces light around, making small bathrooms feel brighter and bigger. It’s a clever long-tail solution for tight bathrooms where every function matters.

Cons: Needs regular cleaning to avoid water spots, and mirror edges can chip if poorly made.

Tip: Opt for beveled edges for safety and style. In this example, Mirror-front cabinet for a narrow bath shows just how much light you can add with one move.

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Under-sink pull-out drawers

My Take: I once designed under-sink pull-out drawers for a client who disliked bending down to find items. The result was life-changing for them—everything had its place and was easily accessible.

Pros: Every inch under the sink becomes functional, and pull-out drawers keep things organized. They’re perfect for small bathrooms where clutter needs strict control.

Cons: Slightly higher cost than fixed shelves, and installation precision is key to avoid drawers hitting plumbing fixtures.

Tip: Divide drawers with organizers for toiletries, cleaning products, and spare towels.

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Slim tall cabinet for vertical storage

My Take: In a micro apartment’s bathroom, I fitted a slim tall cabinet between the shower and the entry door. That vertical space became the family’s linen closet.

Pros: Makes use of height without eating up floor space, and can store bulkier items like towels. Great for maximizing small bathroom layouts in urban homes.

Cons: Can feel imposing if not balanced with lighter design elements. Dusting the top shelf may be a stretch without a stool.

Example: Here’s a case of Slim tall cabinet elevating bathroom function that shows vertical storage at its finest.

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Summary

For me, a small bathroom is not a limitation—it’s an opportunity to be smarter with design. Using strategies like floating vanities, recessed cabinets, and vertical storage can make your bathroom feel twice its actual size. As Apartment Therapy notes, conscious use of light and layout planning can transform tiny rooms. Which of these ideas would you try in your own space?

FAQ

1. What is the best small bathroom cabinet design? The best depends on your layout. Floating vanities and recessed cabinets are great for maximizing space without sacrificing style.

2. How do I add more storage to a tiny bathroom? Use vertical shelving or slim tall cabinets to make use of unused height. Recessed cabinets are also highly effective.

3. Are mirror cabinets good for small bathrooms? Yes, they combine storage with the illusion of space by reflecting light.

4. How much does a small bathroom cabinet cost? Prices range widely—from $150 for basic units to $800+ for custom designs.

5. Can I install a recessed cabinet myself? Only if you’re confident there’s no plumbing or wiring where you plan to install it. Otherwise, hire a pro.

6. What cabinet colors work best for small bathrooms? Lighter colors like white or pale wood tones open up the visual space.

7. Is a floating vanity sturdy? Yes, if properly mounted into wall studs. Professional installation is recommended for safety.

8. Which material is best? Moisture-resistant materials such as PVC, marine plywood, or sealed solid wood are ideal. According to NKBA guidelines, durability factors are key in wet environments.