Lots of homes in Northern Ireland have small bathrooms, but that doesn’t mean they need to feel cramped. In our bathroom showrooms, we work with people every day who want to get more from limited spaces.
Here are some of the top ways we make small bathrooms look bigger and work better.
1. Choose Large-Format Tiles
One of the easiest ways to make a small bathroom look bigger is by using large-format tiles. Because there are fewer grout lines, the floor and walls look more seamless, which tricks the eye into seeing more space.
They’re becoming an increasingly popular design choice, and require professional installation. We often suggest large pale stone or marble-effect tiles, because lighter shades reflect more light.
2. Go For Wall-Hung Fixtures
Wall-hung toilets and wall-hung vanity units are a great option if you’re wondering how to make a small toilet look bigger. By lifting furniture off the floor, you see the full footprint of the room, therefore creating the illusion of more floor space.
Not only does it look sleek and modern, but clients often tell us they appreciate the practical side too, as wall-hung fixtures are much easier to sweep or mop underneath. 
3. Add Clever Storage
Clutter makes any room feel smaller, and bathrooms are no different. When every bottle and brush is left on display, the space can start to feel cramped. Built-in alcoves are a popular bathroom trend right now - just avoid overfilling them, as this can look messy.
Bathroom furniture is the most effective storage solution, especially mirrored cabinets above the sink or slimline vanity units. They hold far more than you’d expect, and keep everything hidden.
4. Use Frameless Showers
If your main family bathroom is small, your choice of shower makes a big difference. Fully framed enclosures or frosted panels can make the room feel smaller, whereas clear glass keeps sight lines open and helps the whole bathroom feel bigger.
When choosing your shower enclosure, go for a frameless or minimal-frame design. Wet room layouts also work well, as they avoid step-ups and give a more open look.
5. Play with Light & Mirrors
Bathroom mirrors are one of the simplest ways to make a small bathroom look bigger. They reflect both natural and artificial light, making the room feel brighter and more open.
LED bathroom mirrors are a customer favourite. The extra light can add ambiance and is practical for doing your makeup or shaving. They’re especially useful in small windowless bathrooms, like an en-suite.
6. Stick to Light, Neutral Colours
Light, neutral colours make a small bathroom look bigger, and sometimes it’s as easy as adding a fresh coat of paint to the walls. Natural white, soft grey, or taupe shades are timeless and always brighten up small spaces.
To avoid the room feeling flat, bathroom accessories are a great way to introduce dark colours in a neutral bathroom - you could try a black towel rail or even coloured bathmats.
7. Swap Out Bulky Radiators
Traditional radiators that sit on the floor take up valuable space in a small bathroom. We often suggest going for a wall-mounted heated towel rail - it looks tidier, frees up floor space, and gives you warm towels at the same time.
For an even cleaner look, some of our customers choose underfloor heating. With no radiator on the wall or floor, the room feels more open and easier to plan around.
Common Customer Questions
What size tiles make a bathroom look bigger?
Large tiles are best for small bathrooms. Square tiles such as 600 x 600 mm work well on both walls and floors. Rectangular tiles like 300 x 600 mm or 600 x 1200 mm can be used to change the sense of proportion - laid horizontally, they make a narrow bathroom feel wider; laid vertically, they make low ceilings feel taller.
How can the bathroom layout make a small bathroom look bigger?
The layout makes a big difference in how a compact bathroom works. Swapping bulky fixtures for wall-hung options, rethinking where the shower sits, or keeping the floor clear can all help. For more ideas, see our small bathroom ideas blog.
What type of lighting makes a small bathroom feel bigger?
Even, layered lighting works best. Recessed ceiling lights reduce shadows, while LED mirrors brighten up the sink area. If you have space, wall lights can spread light across the room and stop corners feeling dark.
How can I make a narrow bathroom feel wider?
Using long, horizontal tiles or a wide mirror can help stretch the room visually. Keeping flooring consistent from end to end also makes the space flow better. Slimline fittings and wall-hung units prevent the sides from feeling crowded.
Make Your Small Bathroom Look Bigger with Bassetts
Hopefully you’ve picked up some useful ideas for making your small bathroom look bigger! While paint and mirrors can help, the biggest difference usually comes from layout and fixture choices.
If you’re in Northern Ireland, and want to transform your small bathroom, book your free design consultation and we can help you get the most from your space.
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