The bathroom is more than just a space for personal hygiene; it’s a place where you start and end your day. The size and layout of this space can significantly impact how you feel about your home.
Did you know that in August 2023, Raleigh home prices saw an uptick of 2.1% compared to the previous year? When considering enhancements, it’s also worth noting that bathroom remodeling yields a return on investment (ROI) of about 71%. Therefore, by investing in making their bathroom feel more spacious, residents of Raleigh can add more value to their properties.
Here are some simple tips to give your bathroom a larger, more open feel without expanding its actual square footage.
1. Tub-to-Shower Conversion
Switching from a tub to a shower can drastically alter the perceived size of your bathroom. Tubs occupy a lot of space, making your bathroom look smaller than it really is. However, showers, particularly frameless ones, create a seamless look, giving the illusion of a more expansive space.
Did you know homes in Raleigh receive an average of 3 offers and typically sell within 35 days? A crucial selling point is often the bathroom, which attracts buyers and also adds value to your property. By making a bathroom look bigger, homeowners can make their property more appealing to potential buyers if they plan to sell.
When considering such renovations, remember that budgeting is essential. Therefore, reviewing the bathroom remodeling cost in Raleigh is wise to ensure the investment aligns with your financial capacity.
2. Opt for a Minimalist Design
Regarding bathrooms, simplicity can be the key to creating a sense of roominess. By selecting only the necessary fixtures and décor, you can free up space, making the area feel less cramped. Too many items can overwhelm a small bathroom.
Think about what you truly need and use daily. Perhaps there are redundant products or décor pieces that don’t serve a purpose. Efficient storage solutions, like drawers and cabinets, can also help. By keeping most items out of sight, you can maintain a clean and open atmosphere.
3. Choose Light Colors
The right color can greatly affect how big or small your bathroom feels. Light shades, like whites, creams, or soft pastels, enhance a sense of space. Why? Because these shades are good at reflecting light. When more light bounces around the room, it gives off an airy and open vibe. Dark or intense colors, on the other hand, can absorb light, making areas feel confined.
Therefore, for those aiming to make their bathroom seem larger without undergoing massive renovations, a simple paint job using lighter hues can be a practical solution. Additionally, complementing these shades with similarly toned fixtures and tiles can further enhance this spacious effect.
4. Install Larger Mirrors
One significant advantage of a bigger mirror is its ability to amplify the room’s visual space. When you have a more extensive reflection, it can make the bathroom seem almost twice as large as its actual size.
Additionally, mirrors have this natural ability to bounce light around. So, if you place one opposite a light source, it can effectively brighten up the room. This reflection of light adds an illusion of depth, making the bathroom feel more expansive.
5. Go for Floating Vanities
Unlike traditional vanities that reach the floor, floating ones are mounted to the wall. This design leaves open space underneath, which plays a visual trick on the eyes, making the floor area seem more expansive.
The clear line of sight from one side of the room to the other helps in creating a feeling of openness. Apart from this space-enhancing feature, floating vanities bring in a contemporary look. Their sleek design and clean lines can instantly update and modernize a bathroom’s appearance.
6. Opt for Clear Glass Shower Doors
Selecting the right kind of shower door can significantly affect your bathroom’s perceived size. Opaque curtains or frosted glass doors create visual barriers, breaking up the space and making it seem confined.
On the other hand, clear glass doors offer an uninterrupted sightline across the entire room. This continuity allows the eyes to travel freely, giving the feeling of a more expansive space.
Apart from enhancing the room’s size perception, clear glass also aids in allowing light to flow without hindrance. This means a well-lit, bright bathroom, which naturally feels more open.
7. Use Recessed Shelving
One way to maximize your space is by considering the storage options you implement. Recessed shelving is a top choice for this purpose. Instead of sticking out into the room, these shelves are built directly into the wall.
This design ensures that no additional floor or wall space is occupied, making the bathroom feel less crowded. Moreover, having these shelves means your bathroom essentials have a designated spot, reducing clutter. By keeping items neatly tucked away, the area appears tidier and more spacious.
8. Invest in Scaled Fixtures
In smaller spaces, oversized fixtures can dominate the room, making it feel cramped and uncomfortable. By investing in fixtures scaled to the size of the bathroom, you can ensure the space feels proportionate and balanced.
For example, a pedestal sink, which occupies less floor space than a traditional vanity, can create an airy feeling. Similarly, a smaller tub or a compact toilet design can be just as functional as their larger counterparts but without overwhelming the space. The goal is to strike a balance between function and size.
9. Light It Up
Appropriate lighting can be the difference between a room that feels cramped and one that appears open and welcoming. By ensuring there’s enough light from various sources, you can easily transform the ambiance of your bathroom.
It’s beneficial to have a mix of both overhead lights and task lights around mirrors or other essential areas. This combined approach helps eliminate shadows and brightens the entire room.
If your bathroom layout allows, having natural light sources like windows or skylights can further enhance the space. Natural light not only offers a fresh and airy feeling but also offers health benefits, such as improving mood.
10. Keep Floor Patterns Simple
When you use intricate and busy flooring patterns, the space can seem cluttered and tight. On the other hand, selecting simple designs and larger tiles can make a significant difference. Large tiles have fewer grout lines, which can lead to a more cohesive look. This continuous appearance can trick the eye into seeing a more expansive floor area.
Furthermore, when you pick uncomplicated patterns, it avoids distracting the eye and allows for a smooth visual flow. This simplicity helps in making the bathroom seem more open and airy.
Conclusion
Your bathroom’s design can significantly influence its perceived size. Simple layouts, light colors, and larger mirrors enhance the feel of space. Floating vanities, clear glass doors, and recessed shelving add modern touches while saving room. Choose scaled fixtures and keep floor patterns straightforward for the best effect. Adequate lighting, especially natural sources, illuminates and enlarges.
Overall, strategic design choices can make even smaller bathrooms seem spacious and inviting. So, make sure to consider the aforementioned tips when planning your next bathroom project.
