Designing a small bathroom may feel restrictive, especially in older Glasgow properties where space is often tight. However, with the right layout, materials and lighting choices, compact bathrooms can feel just as considered and luxurious as larger ones.

The key is understanding how to make the most of what you have, rather than trying to force features that do not suit the space.

Start with layout and flow

In small bathrooms, layout matters more than anything else. Even a few centimetres can make a big difference to how comfortable the room feels.

Good design focuses on:

• Clear movement through the space
• Avoiding doors or fittings that clash when opened
• Making sure everyday items are easy to reach

Wall-hung furniture and toilets are often a smart choice in compact rooms. They free up floor space visually and make the bathroom feel lighter and more open. Walk-in showers also work well in smaller layouts, removing the need for bulky enclosures or baths that dominate the room.

In Glasgow tenements, careful planning is especially important due to original layouts and existing pipework. Working with the structure rather than against it usually leads to better results.

Light and colour make a bigger impact than size

Lighting plays a huge role in how large a small bathroom feels. Poor lighting can make even a well-designed space feel cramped, while thoughtful lighting can open it up.

A layered approach works best:

• Good overhead lighting for overall brightness
• Focused lighting around mirrors for daily use
• Subtle lighting in niches or under units for warmth

Lighter colour palettes also help reflect light around the room. This does not mean everything has to be white. Soft neutrals, warm stone tones and pale greys all work well. Even darker colours can be used successfully when limited to feature areas, such as shower walls or alcoves.

Large format tiles are another useful trick. Fewer grout lines create a more seamless look, helping the room feel calmer and more spacious.

Smart storage keeps the space calm

Clutter is the quickest way to make a small bathroom feel overwhelmed. Smart storage solutions are essential, especially in homes where bathrooms are used daily by multiple people.

Effective storage ideas include:

• Mirrored cabinets that provide storage without taking up extra space
• Built-in wall niches for toiletries
• Vanity units with internal drawers rather than open shelving

Keeping surfaces clear makes the bathroom feel more considered and easier to maintain. Storage that is integrated into the design always looks better than add-ons fitted later.

Choosing materials that suit compact spaces

In smaller bathrooms, materials need to work harder. High-end bathroom materials are still achievable, but they should be chosen with balance in mind.

Materials that work particularly well in compact spaces include:

• Porcelain tiles that mimic stone or marble without heavy maintenance
• Matte or satin finishes that reduce glare
• Subtle textures that add interest without visual clutter

Using fewer materials but carrying them through consistently often creates a more expensive looking finish than mixing too many styles.

Small does not mean compromising on luxury

A smaller bathroom does not mean you need to sacrifice quality or comfort. In fact, compact spaces often benefit most from thoughtful design and better materials.

Features like:

• A well-designed walk-in shower
• Quality brassware in warm finishes
• Carefully planned lighting

can transform a modest space into something that feels refined and intentional.

Designing a small bathroom that works for your home

Every home is different, especially in Glasgow where property styles vary so widely. The best small bathroom designs respond to the building they sit within, rather than trying to replicate something seen online.

A strong approach is to:

• Prioritise layout and storage first
• Use light and materials to enhance the sense of space
• Keep the design simple and cohesive
• Invest in quality where it matters most

If you are planning a small bathroom renovation and want advice that suits your home and lifestyle, exploring recent projects or speaking to an experienced design and installation team can make all the difference.