Posts

How to make a small bathroom feel bigger

/in /by

A small bathroom doesn’t have to feel cramped or limiting. With the right design choices, even the most compact space can feel open, bright, and practical. At Olney Bathrooms, thoughtful layout planning and clever product selection often make a dramatic difference to how a bathroom looks and functions.

One of the most effective ways to make a small bathroom feel bigger is by keeping the colour scheme light and simple. Soft neutrals such as white, cream, pale grey, or stone tones reflect more light and help create a sense of openness. Using similar colours across walls, floors, and furniture can also make the room feel less broken up and more spacious.

Wall-hung furniture is another popular design solution. Floating vanity units and wall-mounted toilets expose more floor area, which creates the illusion of extra space while also making cleaning easier. Compact furniture designed specifically for smaller bathrooms can provide useful storage without overwhelming the room.

Choosing the right shower or bath can also transform a small bathroom. Walk-in showers with clear glass screens allow light to travel through the space and avoid visual barriers. In many cases, replacing a bulky bath with a modern shower enclosure can make the room feel significantly larger and more practical. Where a bath is still important, a shorter or space-saving design can work well.

Tiles and patterns play an important role too. Larger tiles with minimal grout lines can help a room feel less busy, while continuing the same tiles across both walls and floors can create a seamless look. Vertical tile patterns can make ceilings appear higher, while horizontal layouts can make the room feel wider.

Lighting is often overlooked but makes a huge difference in smaller bathrooms. Good layered lighting,  including ceiling lights, mirror lighting, and soft accent lighting removes dark corners and creates a brighter, more open feel. Mirrors themselves are one of the simplest ways to visually expand a space by reflecting both light and the room around them.

Storage should always be planned carefully in a small bathroom. Recessed shelving, mirrored cabinets, and vanity units with built-in storage help reduce clutter and keep surfaces clear, which instantly makes the space feel larger.

At Olney Bathrooms, designing small bathrooms is about balancing practicality with smart design. With the right layout, colours, and fixtures, even a compact bathroom can feel comfortable, stylish, and surprisingly spacious.

For more information on our Bathroom Services in Olney call today : 01234 731790

Or view recent projects at our Facebook page! > https://www.facebook.com/people/Olney-Bathrooms/

Common bathroom design mistakes to avoid

/in /by

Designing a new bathroom is an exciting project, but small planning mistakes can lead to problems later on. At Olney Bathrooms, careful design and experience help homeowners avoid common issues and create spaces that look great and work well for years to come.

One of the most frequent mistakes is not planning the layout properly. Bathrooms often have limited space, so the positioning of key items like the toilet, basin, and shower is crucial. Poor layout planning can make the room feel cramped or awkward to use. A well-designed layout ensures there is enough movement space and that doors, drawers, and screens can open comfortably.

Another common mistake is choosing style over practicality. While it’s important for a bathroom to look attractive, it also needs to suit everyday use. For example, open shelving may look great in a showroom but can quickly become cluttered in a busy household. Similarly, very dark colours or highly textured surfaces may require more maintenance than expected. A good design balances appearance with durability and ease of cleaning.

Insufficient storage is another issue many homeowners encounter. Bathrooms tend to collect everyday items such as toiletries, cleaning products, and towels. Without enough built-in storage, surfaces can become cluttered and the room can feel smaller. Vanity units, mirrored cabinets, and recessed shelving can all help keep the space organised.

Lighting is often overlooked during bathroom planning. Relying on a single ceiling light can leave the room feeling dull or create shadows around mirrors. Including layered lighting — such as mirror lighting, ceiling lights, and soft accent lighting — makes the space more functional and welcoming.

Another mistake is ignoring ventilation. Bathrooms naturally produce moisture, and without proper ventilation, this can lead to condensation, mould, and long-term damage to walls and furniture. Installing an effective extractor fan and choosing moisture-resistant materials can prevent these problems.

Budget planning is equally important. Focusing only on visible items like tiles and furniture without considering installation, plumbing adjustments, or preparation work can lead to unexpected costs. A clear plan from the beginning helps keep the project on track.

At Olney Bathrooms, the design process focuses on avoiding these common mistakes while creating bathrooms that are both stylish and practical. With the right guidance and planning, homeowners can feel confident that their new bathroom will not only look beautiful but also function perfectly for everyday life.

For more information on our Bathroom Services in Olney call today : 01234 731790

Or view recent projects at our Facebook page! > https://www.facebook.com/people/Olney-Bathrooms/