Small country bathroom decorating ideas


60 Small Bathroom Ideas for Decorating Tiny Spaces

Style

Bathroom

Ideas & Inspiration

Small Spaces

by Caroline Biggs

updated Nov 10, 2022

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When it comes to small-space living, it often seems like the first room that suffers is the bathroom. If your bathroom is totally micro, you’re probably looking to spruce things up a bit. But don’t sweat – a tiny bathroom can still be totally chic. But if you’ve ever tried to carve out more storage space in a small bathroom, you know that it can seem like an impossible task. That’s why it pays to know a few tips and tricks that can help make the most of a diminutive bathroom and keep it organized. 

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Here, we’re bringing you some of Apartment Therapy’s favorite small bathroom ideas; both from our archives and some fresh additions from Instagram, to lend you some inspiration for a water closet work-over. The following homes have incorporated everything from floating shelves and tiny sinks to mosaic tile and chic towel racks, but they all have one thing in common: a beautifully designed small bathroom. 

Continue scrolling for 60 ingenious ways to maximize even the smallest of bathroom spaces—all without sacrificing an inch of style.

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1. Add seating to your shower.

Even the smallest bathroom has at least one place to sit… and we all know what that one place is! But if you need extra seating and simply don’t have room for it, cop the look we found in this Austin, Texas home and add some seating to your shower. 

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2. Utilize walls and ceilings.

When you’re short on space, you’ve got to use every inch. And that often means hanging things from the ceilings and walls, like this Ontario bathroom displays. 

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3.

Incorporate a bold shower curtain.

Short on space? No one will even know when you opt for a super bold shower curtain like the one in this Washington, DC bathroom. 

Watch

12 Brilliant Ideas for Your Small Bathroom

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4. Reduce clutter with teeny tiny cabinetry.

This small bathroom idea from @Homestyle_byCarly incorporates the philosophy that when it comes to bathroom cabinets, smaller is better. After all, this helps reduce clutter and encourages you to keep only what you use regularly. Do you really need space for 26 colors of nail polish? A small vessel sink fits perfectly atop this tiny bath vanity.

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5. Install built-in storage.

We love the clever built-in storage shown here from @alima_studio_architetto. Two shelves right next to the bathtub allow you to stow frequently used items, while the top functions as a great place for pretty bathroom decor or accessories.  

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6. Save space with a small sink.

There’s little need for a huge sink, especially when you’re short on space. We love the small bathroom idea of paring back on things that aren’t crucial. This bold, artful bathroom by @origins_living beautifully incorporates a barely-there sink with an oversized hexagonal mirror. 

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7. Use a basket to corral clutter.

Using a basket to keep small items together in one handy spot is a great small bathroom idea if you want to keep your space looking clean and uncluttered. We love this modern black basket that @dany.living uses as a tiny towel basket. 

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8. Impossibly small, yet incredibly chic.

Even the smallest space can still benefit from a chic upgrade, as shown in this tiny bathroom that’s part of an Airstream trailer. A coordinating rug and shower curtain give the space a much-needed update, while the white cabinetry doesn’t crowd the space. 

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9. Utilize under sink storage.

Just because you’ve opted for a floating vanity doesn’t mean you can’t store things below. These oversized jute baskets are the perfect touch in this rustic Texas bathroom, and allow for plenty of storage space as well. 

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10. Make it a shower room.

Even if your shower takes up your entire bathroom, you can still make the most of the space, as evidenced by this gorgeous Swedish studio. A water-resistant bench for holding your belongings and towels is a great small bathroom idea. 

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11. Hide pipes with a plant.

Name something a plant can’t fix—we’ll wait. While you may be disappointed with certain things in your tiny bathroom that you don’t have the means to fix, like unsightly pipes or a boring cupboard, you can use a plant to take the attention off the area like these California renters did in their bath. What a great small bathroom idea! 

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12. Rely on tile.

Smaller square footage means less room for decor, but when you install striking tile, like what’s seen in this cozy Vermont getaway, who needs anything more? The colors and patterns in the ceramic squares instantly brighten up the room and take up zero precious space, since they’re used as a countertop material and to trim out the shower.

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13. Turn to hanging storage.

Installing hanging baskets for shower storage makes your bathroom look so much more fun—just take a look at this chic Pennsylvania home as an example. Your walls also won’t feel as cluttered, and you’ll avoid the pain of drilling or putting together a flat packed shelf.

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14. Go all out with color.

With little space for art or hanging decorations, you can fix a boring bathroom with a maximalist wallpaper, as is the case in this vivid New Jersey home. This small bathroom idea infuses fun, lively color into your space but still leaves room for wall-mounted storage if needed.

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15. Pick a bold paint color.

Bright turquoise blue walls provide a stylish contrast to traditional white tile floors in a tiny bathroom, as we saw in this colorful New Orleans home. 

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16. Mount a few floating shelves.

A pair of wall-mounted shelves turn a cramped bathroom corner into a storage-savvy scene. Let a chic Washington, D.C. apartment show you how it’s done.

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17.  Give your space the tiled treatment.

Add mosaic tile to the walls surrounding your bathtub or shower to create an artful display in your small bathroom, just like we saw in Shana Cohen’s cozy cottage in Florida. 

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18.

Play with texture.

Take a cue from this Santa Barbara home by bringing some boho flair to a small bathroom. Here, you’ll see a mix of textures and textiles, like the woven rug, linen shower curtain, and rattan baskets.

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19. Swap out your mirror.

Looking for easy small bathroom ideas for a chic upgrade? Replace your current mirror with a more sophisticated one—like the round floral bone mirror we found in this San Francisco apartment—to elevate the entire ambiance of your bathroom. No renovations necessary!

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20. Work wonders with wallpaper.

As proven in this maximalist Philadelphia home, sprightly floral wallpaper brightens up a tiny powder room with style.

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21. Fake it ‘til you make it.

An oversized mirror, like the round one we spotted in a Michigan home, reflects light and creates the illusion of more space in a tiny bathroom. Using mirrors to create the illusion of extra space is one of our favorite small bathroom ideas. 

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22. Picture ledge power.

Working with little to no surface space for storage on your pedestal sink? Mount a floating picture ledge above your sink to store cosmetics, perfume bottles, and other small bathroom necessities, as we saw in this Paris apartment.

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23. Just keep it simple.

A bathroom in a tiny home is about as small as you can get, but this Washington DC abode’s bathroom doesn’t feel cramped. If you keep products to a minimum and select only your favorite plant or candle to display, things will feel more spacious, even if they’re actually far from it.

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24. Make a splash with a shower curtain.

A cheery shower curtain can amp up just about any space, and the one in this boho-style Bronx apartment creates an artful display. When it comes to small bathroom ideas, adding decor in your favorite style will make up for a lack of space. 

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25. Gallery walls galore.

A pair of gallery walls filled with eclectic artwork brings color and personality to a small bathroom—no floor space required, as we found in Apartment Therapy editor Adrienne Breaux’s New Orleans home.

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26. Wow with a wreath.

No room for a house plant in your small bathroom? Take a cue from this farmhouse and hang a wreath for an organic touch.

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27. Spice it up with sconces.

Searching for a stylish way to free up space around your sink? Swingarm sconces—like the ones in this Michigan home—are a great small bathroom idea. They’ll  provide plenty of accent lighting without taking up an inch of surface space.

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28. Mirror match-up.

In this bold bathroom, owners Brian Huddleston and Emily Cosper chose an oriental vibe. They used a family heirloom mirror and matched it with several other coordinating pieces of Oriental artwork for a beautiful, pulled-together lookin this art-filled New Orleans home.

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29. Create a chalkboard wall.

Cover a single wall in a fresh coat of chalkboard paint to make an artful statement in a small bathroom, which is not only a great small bathroom idea, but a handy source of entertainment while you’re in there. Let this Rhode Island home serve as the perfect bathroom inspo.

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30. The trim treatment.

Bring a pop of color and contrast to your small bathroom by painting your baseboards and door trim in a bright hue. The owner of this Kansas City home nailed this design trick.

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31. Embrace the awkward.

Maximize a small, awkwardly shaped bathroom by covering the walls with some playful wallpaper, as we saw in this charming house in Edinburgh, Scotland.

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32. Go green.

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33. Lean in.

Not working with a ton of wall space to hang art in your tiny bathroom? Learn from Cupcakes and Cashmere founder Emily Schuman and prop a piece of art above your toilet tank. Let it lean against the wall for a sleek, nails-free display like she did inside her Los Angeles home.

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34. Think pink.

A bold shade of bright fuchsia wall paint turns even the smallest of powder rooms into a glamorous scene, as we saw in a very colorful Minneapolis, Minnesota loft.

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35.

Make mirror magic.

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36. Dive into the decor deep end.

Dark walls allow flashy gold-finished fixtures to shine in a small bathroom, as we found in an Art Deco-inspired Indiana home, which hits a high note in our book.

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37.  Collect toiletries in a cute tray.

A well-placed tray instantly creates an additional storage opportunity on top of your toilet tank, as we saw in this modern Chicago home.

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38. Create a glamorous glow.

Switch out your humdrum flush mount for a more striking overhead style, like the pendant light we spotted in this San Francisco remodel, to upgrade a small bathroom in seconds. Playing around with lighting is a great small bathroom idea, as the right lighting can create the perfect ambience for a room of any size. 

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39.

Edit your palette.

If you feel a busy color scheme cramps your style, select two colors—or even just one—and stick with it. This small but stylish New York apartment shows how black and white can make a bathroom appear larger than it is.

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40. Be bold.

Too much of a good thing can be wonderful, and gallery walls in a small bathroom are no exception. Take a cue from this eclectic Nashville home and install floor-to-ceiling gallery displays on every wall of your bathroom for an impactful maximalist scene.

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41. Hang out.

An extra-long hanging plant—like the wall-length heartleaf philodendron we spotted in this Los Angeles bathroom—naturally draws the eye up so a cramped space seems larger than it actually is. Many of the best small bathroom ideas incorporate ways to trick the eye.

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42.

Dare to be woodsy.

You can always count on wood-paneled walls to create an outdoorsy atmosphere in your tiny bathroom, just like we saw in this inspiring Austin, Texas abode. Who needs to trek to a log cabin when you have this?

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43. Try an atypical towel rack.

Score some extra sink-side storage space by replacing your wall-mounted towel rack with a multifunctional leaning ladder, like the one in this Austin, Texas home. 

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44. Fashion flower power.

In the bathroom of a Highland Park, California home, a commanding shower curtain creates a colorful centerpiece in a tiny white-tiled space

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45. Forge some floating storage.

Invest in a sleek and slender hanging rail system, like the FINTORP series at IKEA, so you won’t waste an inch of precious sink space on toiletries. Jordan and Brittany Griggs take their storage strategy to the next level with this hack.

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46. Be bold and botanical.

When you don’t have enough room to place houseplants in your powder room, but you’re looking for small bathroom ideas to add a touch of nature to your space,  consider vibrant leaf-patterned wallpaper. This trick definitely pops in a lush Beverly Hills home.

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47. Keep plants in the shower.

Plant parents don’t need to sweat it, if shelf space is taken, and there’s no room on the floor. Many plants do perfectly fine chilling with you in the shower. Just take note of how the owners of this stunning Montreal home did it and research to see if your green-fronded friends can find a home in your bathroom. You can even hang a few off of your shower rod!

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48.

Embrace the extra.

A floor-to-ceiling gallery wall gives a compact bathroom a maximalist upgrade when displayed against a bright green-painted wall. Look to this colorful Los Angeles home for some inspiration.

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49. Try textured walls.

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50. Play with complementary colors.

The orange shower curtain and blue walls in the bathroom of a stylish New Orleans house pull the eye up and around the space. They also help visually elongate the room, emphasizing the tall ceilings and taking attention off of the narrowness of the space.

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51. Color your cabinets.

Bring a burst of color into a small, minimalist bathroom by painting your sink cabinets in a vibrant hue, as we saw in this soothing space in a Michigan kit home.

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52.

Take a seat.

A petite side chair provides a place to perch and surface space for tub-side storage in a small bathroom, as seen in this English farmhouse.

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53. Go geometric.

A shapely wall-mounted storage unit, like the floating brass circle shelf we spotted inside an Oakland apartment, adds some geometric flair (and a storage opportunity) to a tiny bathroom.

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54. Create contrast.

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55. Float on.

If you’re working with little to no storage space around your shower or bathtub, mount a floating shelf or picture ledge on the wall above the tub to store your shampoo, conditioner, and soap. This Buenos Aires home strikes a balance between form and function.

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56. Keep a low profile.

When you don’t have any surface space around your pedestal sink, a great small bathroom idea is to consider employing a petite, tiered side table to create some instant storage opportunity. This Austin abode shows how to get the job done in style.

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57. Go big or go home.

Don’t let a lack of square footage hold you back from designing your dream bathroom. Take a cue from Lauren Naimola and Chad Pratt and install everything from a gallery wall to a statement light in your powder room to prove that good style will always trump size.

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58. Tub/shower combo.

If you’ve never thought of putting your tub right in your shower, you’re missing out on a key small bathroom idea. We love this design from @imperiumimmobilier, which allows a homeowner to choose between a luxurious shower or an equally relaxing bath, all in the same small space.  

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59. Cut-out shelving.

If your bathroom is so small that you’re struggling even for room to get around, consider tucking shelving into a cut-out like @enchantedberkeley did. If it’s possible, it allows you to keep your crucial bathroom storage without having to worry about bumping into shelves that are sticking out from the wall. 

Country bathroom ideas: 30 rough-luxe bathrooms and ensuites

(Image credit: Future)

When you're looking for country bathroom ideas, take your cue from the property and its setting. For rural homes, that can mean considering any quirky angles and unusual proportions into account when planning the layout of the bathroom. 

The best country bathroom ideas incorporate materials and textures that reflect the construction of the building, and also the rural views outside the window. So while you'll find luxe finishes and hotel-style fittings, wood, stone, plaster and paneling are all key features of a country bathroom.

We've put together tips and style advice to cover all bathroom ideas, from tiles and tubs to basins, showers and vanity units, from interior designers and experts to help you pin down the best look and layout for your country bathroom.

Country bathroom ideas – large and small

The beauty of the country look is that it works as well in a large family bathroom or master bathroom as it does in a powder room or guest bathroom. It's the details that define the look, from the style of the bath and choice of faucets, to the colors and patterns you bring in with blinds, wallpaper and accessories.

1. Bring in beautiful pattern

(Image credit: Warner House)

A beautiful floral fabric will immediately bring a country house feel to your country bathroom scheme. It's a look that works particularly well in an en suite bathroom, where you can carry through the decor from the bedroom to create a sense of connectivity between the two spaces.

Curtains and blinds can be a wonderful way to bring color, pattern and texture to your bathroom,' agrees Lee Clarke, Director of Warner House . 'Not only can they add drama, personality, and visual interest, but they can also bring warmth and a sense of coziness to interiors.'

The blind and wallpaper in this bathroom are the Les Pecheurs China Blue design from Warner House.

2. Combine paper with tile

(Image credit: Bayswater Bathrooms)

Classical designs often top the list of country and cottage bathroom ideas because they suit period properties and rural homes so well. But that doesn't mean you can't refresh the look. Combining a bathroom tile and wallpaper in a soft pastel tone, alongside a period-style basin and bath, will add a contemporary update.

'Classical bathrooms have undergone something of a revival this year, as homeowners bring a touch of period style to their home,' says Barrie Cutchie, Design Director at Bayswater Bathrooms . 

'We’ve also seen a few exciting twists to the classical look, with modern elements being mixed in to create a beautiful on-trend traditional space. It's a style that is perfect for country-style properties.'

3. Go bold and dramatic

(Image credit: Burlington)

The bathroom is the perfect space to set your wilder design ideas free. You may even decide they're so successful, they can roam to other rooms, too!

'If you’re worried about bringing color into the bathroom, don’t be,' insists Faye Foye from Burlington . 

'Although they are often the smallest room in the house, bathrooms can take more adventurous styling. For example, dark walls, elaborate wallpaper, and bright or dramatically colored baths or basins help bring an authentic expression of style into these functional spaces.'

Dark bathrooms can be the perfect mix of light and shade, shine and matt, to bring character to your country styling.

4. Power-up a powder room

(Image credit: Simon Bevan/Future)

A tile mural that evokes the beauty of nature on a grand scale, a stunning wallpaper or an oversized mirror in a small space – elements like these can elevate a country bathroom, especially a small space like a powder room that can otherwise seem a design afterthought.

'Cloakroom rooms are an exciting design opportunity. They can be a true departure from the story of the house,' suggests Jennifer Morris of New York-based JMorris Design , who designed the powder room in the Kingston Design Showhouse in Kingston, NY.  'I want the space to be comfortable, thoughtful and visually stunning.'

5. Ensure privacy with a blind

(Image credit: Jane Churchill)

A pretty fabric blind is more than a screen from prying eyes. It can filter light, add pattern and color, and bring softness to the hard surfaces of the bathroom.

Make your choice of textile an integral element of your country bathroom ideas, as it's always surprising how much space windows take up in a room – remember, your blind will be on show for much of the time.

Here, the block print from Jane Churchill works beautifully against the tonal wallpaper, providing a fresh pop of bathroom color and pattern.

6. Think big in a large space

(Image credit: Industville)

When your room already has the wow factor, your choice of bathroom fittings and furnishings need to do it justice.

Here, a Swan Neck wall lights from Industville , a dramatically tiled floor, gleaming freestanding tub and twin basins are designed to work with the scale of the room and beamed ceiling.

The symmetry of this design, which takes its cue from the twin windows, can be replicated in a smaller room, where the ordered design will help to make the room look clean and uncluttered.

7. Install a colorful bathroom suite

(Image credit: Burlington)

While white sanitaryware will never go out of fashion, we're seeing a resurgence of colorful suites in bathroom ideas. 

'There are a number of ways to inject color into a bathroom, regardless of your space or design confidence,' explains Burlington brand expert, Faye Foye. 'For those on the shy side, consider adding strategic pops of color through accessories, linens, or feature walls. This will enable you to test out your colour of choice without investing in a costly and disruptive renovation. 

For the more daring decorators, opt for jewel-toned tiles, vibrant floors, or colorful bathroom fixtures. These elements will create a standout space for your master bathroom.'

8. Use panelling for a relaxed look

(Image credit: Chris Snook/NK Living/Industville)

White wooden panelling and industrial-look black metalwork will add a characterful touch to your scheme, as shown in this bathroom design from NK Living , featuring lights from Industville.

'A classic monochrome scheme may be more associated with urban design, but this charming bathroom shows just how well it works within a more rustic aesthetic,' says Andréa Childs, Editor of Country Homes & Interiors magazine. 

'Key details give it a more rural look. The aged mirror, wooden vanity, quirky accessories, plants and  foliage, take it out of the city and into the countryside.'

Panelling like this works well when you're planning a beach bathroom, inspired by seaside living and bringing in nautical design details – the perfect match for a coast-meets-country aesthetic.

9. Pick the prettiest basin

(Image credit: London Basin Company)

A decorative basin will add a unique touch to your country bathroom ideas, especially when complemented with elegant brushed brass faucets and metalwork.

'Bold, vibrant and full of character, our Blue Marnie basin is well suited to country style interiors,' says Anna Callis, Founder and Designer, London Basin Company . 'Its joyful color palette of pinks, blues and greens is inspired by the natural world, helping to bring a sense of the outdoors. And its delicate floral pattern brings a botanical feel to the design.'

10. Add vibrant accessories

(Image credit: Dan Duchars/Future)

In an all-white scheme, introduce color, texture and pattern with bold accessories.

'This is a great way to update a timeless scheme,' says Homes & Gardens Stylist, Sara Bird. 'You could change rugs and towels with the seasons, bring in fresh flowers and foliage that changes week by week and month by month, and even switch up your soaps and bath products so the scents match the season or time of day.'

Some elements will stay constant in a country scheme – think rustic wood furniture pieces and natural materials.

11.

Clad the walls

(Image credit: Kate Lester Interiors)

Wood panelling can protect walls from splashes, while giving a softer look than tiles. It provides an opportunity to add color to the bathroom, too.

In a small or awkwardly shaped room, paint the panelling a darker color and the walls above a lighter shade, or hang wallpaper. This will 'lift' the ceiling and appear to open up the space – as shown in this beautifully designed powder room from California-based interior designer, Kate Lester .

Toning the color of the panelling with the flooring will give a sophisticated finish.

12. Coordinate the bath and cabinet colors

(Image credit: Ripples)

Painting the side of your bath, or its surround, then matching the color with bathroom storage will bring a cohesive look to your country bathroom ideas – and is a trick the experts use when planning their schemes. It works particularly well in a country home, as you can choose the paint shade to complement the age and style of your property, and its rustic setting. This deep and restful tone is a classic if you're looking for grey bathroom ideas and inspiration.

'This bathroom was in need of total renovation, giving the opportunity to re-work the layout and make the most of the space,' says Alfie Guard, Designer at Ripples . 'By repositioning certain elements, we were able to incorporate a large walk-in shower and integrated seating area, as well as a stunning roll-top bath which the eye is drawn to as soon as you walk through the door.

'While the overall look is luxe and contemporary, we added a couple of design elements to nod to the property's Victorian heritage, including the traditional towel rail and vanity unit. The brushed gold brassware brings the look together perfectly.

13. Add character with wallpaper

(Image credit: Heritage Bathrooms)

Outsized floral wallpapers are wonderfully nostalgic and visually soften the hard surfaces of a bathroom. Modern ventilation standards and improved paper quality means the danger of peeling is vastly diminished.  

If you’re still concerned, follow the lead of this bathroom by using panelling to keep wallpaper safely above the splash-zone. 

‘One of the greatest advantages of choosing classically shaped sanitaryware is their interesting silhouettes,’ adds Charlie Williams, Interior Designer at Heritage Bathrooms . ‘Pitched alongside patterned wallpaper, the curves and details really stand proud.’ 

14. Make architecture the feature

(Image credit: The White Company)

When architectural features such as beams cut across your bathroom, use them to help define the space and dictate the position of sanitary ware and services.

Here, a shower is tucked into an awkward corner, leaving the rest of the room free for the basin, bath and toilet.

The natural wood has been sanded back to give a paler finish that would suit a country coastal property. Driftwood wall art, plus soft cotton accessories and baskets from The White Company , continue the theme. 

Add tumbled flagstone flooring and a hand-carved stone basin for extra layers of texture and interest.  

15. Match the tub to the size of your space

(Image credit: Albion Bath Company)

A freestanding bath is a classic in country bathrooms, and can feature in a smaller ensuite as well as a larger family space.

‘With careful planning, even small bathrooms can play host to a freestanding bath’ says Phil Etherden, managing director at The Albion Bath Company . Our compact Tubby Too design is available in three lengths – all comfortably deep – and looks just as elegant positioned against a wall as it does in the middle of the room. Combine with one of our overhead shower systems for day-to-day practicality’. 

16. Highlight your layout with tile

(Image credit: BC Designs)

Shower rooms are often tucked at the back of the bathroom out of the way, but they can still make an impact. Placing bathroom floor tiles in an unstructured format is a brilliant way to achieve a softer, more fluid injection of color – and add modernity to a country bathroom.  

Here, tiles from Bert & May are carried vertically and horizontally, drawing the eye into the room and putting the shower firmly in the spotlight. Hexagonal tiles are ideal when connecting two materials. Pair pattern with plain to really emphasize shapeliness.

The undulating design creates a stunning backdrop for the bathroom suite – here, a mix of contemporary and period-style sanitary ware from BC Designs .

17. Choose aged brass fittings

(Image credit: Catchpole & Rye)

Create an instant vintage look without the wait for your country bathroom via aged brass fittings. The finish replicates patina that has built up over time and will add natural warmth to the coolest of bathrooms. 

If you want the aged effect to stay arrested in time, go for a lacquered finish. Unlacquered taps will continue to burnish during use, going darker where you touch them most as the metal reacts to the natural oils in your skin. 

Here, aged brassware from Catchpole & Rye stands out beautifully against a clean white backdrop. Notice how the white has a shaded tinge – this works well in country cottages, as it is softer than brilliant white and a little more authentic. Slaked Lime by Little Greene is a similar off-white

18. Add a curtain and a comfy chair

(Image credit: Divine Savages)

Flashes of vintage print will always look decadent in a country home, and the bathroom is an ideal place to be brave with bolder patterns. ‘A show-stopping shower curtain can be all it takes to bring a pop of Technicolour flair to a classic bathroom,’ enthuses Jamie Watkins, Co-Founder of Divine Savages . 

In this bathroom, belonging to Collette Vernon of The Vintage Trader , a blush pink velvet armchair continues the color story, while providing a comfortable place to lounge after a soak. 

The chequered floor beneath the bath makes a bold statement but is also linked color-wise to the shower curtain, which helps to prevent a potentially jarring pattern clash. 

19. Create a lighting plan

(Image credit: Burlington)

A country bathroom in a period property may feature small windows or be shaded by trees outside, making the room darker than desired. In the early planning stages, it is important to get placements right, including light sources. 

‘The most overlooked part 
of planning a bathroom is all the different types of lighting needed,’ says Marketa Rypacek, managing director at Industville . Ensure you have overhead lighting, as well as task lighting around the mirror. Consider where natural light comes into the space and remember that 
all bathroom lighting needs an appropriate IP rating.

20. Consider a wet room

(Image credit: Davide Lovati/Future)

While a wet room may be a more expensive option when designing a bathroom, it can be a worthwhile investment. It creates a seamless look that makes the shower area an integral part of the space and will give your bathroom a luxe, rustic vogue finish. 

The main cost is tanking to make the area waterproof but the result is a roomier space, as you don’t need a closed-off shower enclosure. Instead, you can have the same flooring throughout and a frameless shower screen 
to contain splashes without feeling too restrictive.  

Here, the bathroom design is by Katie McCrum , featuring walls clad in smooth MicroCrete . Taps and shower, Waterworks . Flooring, Cement Tile Shop

21. Line the walls with reclaimed wood

(Image credit: Brent Darby/Future)

This stunning bathroom has been installed in a renovated barn that links to a thatched stone cottage in Oxfordshire that dates back to the 1530s. 

It is owned by interior designer Bee Osborn, who has combined classic detailing with a modern country aesthetic. In the bathroom, reclaimed wood from an old schoolhouse clads the walls and brings a Scandinavian feel to the space. 

‘The extension has such extraordinary proportions that bring a contemporary elegance,‘ says Bee. ‘The en-suite bathroom links to the main bedroom. Both clad in reclaimed wood, the modern-rustic main suite has added a touch of boutique hotel-style glamor.'

The stainless steel bath is from BC Designs. Tapware, Crosswater . Petrified oak stool, Studio Osborn . Wall lights, Porta Romana

22. Scale up your suite

(Image credit: CP Hart)

A larger country home is your opportunity to indulge in a suitably fabulous bathroom space.

‘To achieve a real sense of grandeur, products should be on the larger side. It’s your opportunity to show off, so splash out on the extras – traditional country décor is all about the detailing, on coving, dados, sanitary ware and lighting,’ says Yousef Mansuri, Head of Interior Design at CP Hart . 

‘The most iconic feature of a traditional bathroom is still the classic cast iron freestanding bath, and if you’re really going for high impact, make it the centrepiece of your room,’ he adds. Yousef recommends doing this by literally positioning the bath centrally in your space, but if the bathroom layout doesn’t comply try crowning the bath with a statement mirror or chandelier above.

23. Make the most of the view

(Image credit: VSP Interiors)

In this country home, interior designer Henriette Von Stockhausen kept everything simple yet elegant, and using heritage-style fittings was key. ‘No bathroom trends, just classic detailing combined with antiques,’ says Henriette. 

‘The view here is stunning so we raised the platform to make the most of the vistas across the gardens while at the same time making installing the new waste pipes much easier.’ 

The reclaimed wooden floor was crucial for adding warmth in the high-ceiling space. ‘The most important thing for me in any bathroom is to make it feel like a room. I love to add art, rugs and curtains, just as you would anywhere else in the house,’ adds Henriette.

This is the Aurelius Slipper Bath, from BC Designs. Traditional Bath Shower Mixer, Perrin & Rowe . Imperial Astoria Deco Large Basin Stand Chrome with Astoria Deco Large Basin, Imperial Bathrooms . Design by VSP Interiors .

24. Reinvent Victorian style

(Image credit: Burlington)

Tap into the Victorian era’s love of decorative detailing for a country bathroom with added period glamor. 

This collection by Burlington echoes the prettiness of antique wrought iron but, made from aluminium, is far more practical. ‘Go for a simple monochrome scheme to ensure ornate fittings remain timeless,’ suggests Faye Foye, Marketing Manager, Burlington. ‘You can also take it in a more contemporary direction by combining with on-trend dark painted walls.’ 

Don’t forget the impactful presence of a high-level cistern. Perched on elegant filigree brackets, a traditional cistern can turn this bathroom staple into the main event.

Carrara marble top basin washstand, wall lights, mirror, high-level WC and cistern, Bateau bath: all Burlington. 

25. Add gold accessories

(Image credit: West One Bathroom)

In this serene modern country bathroom, traditional tongue and groove panelling is given an elevated look when paired with gold accessories.

‘If there is one room that needs a little luxury, it’s your bathroom,’ says Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms . 
She recommends using wall-mounted furniture to keep floor space clear and sticking to a neutral palette 
if you want an elegant spa-like finish. ‘This helps avoid breaking up the room with different colours, which will make it feel boxy,’ she explains.

And don’t be shy of adding 
a little glamor – it’s these brushed gold fittings that really make this bathroom shine.

26. Make a practical bathroom look pretty

(Image credit: Harvey Maria)

The perfect family bathroom combines practicality with an attractive look that fits the decor of your country home. 

Here, a small area of traditionally patterned tiles gives the bathroom a fabulous heritage feel. At the same time, it defines the shower area and elevates an otherwise neutral space without unsettling the sense of balance and calm. 

‘Natural materials, like wood, are the perfect backdrop for busier heritage patterns,’ adds Mark Findlay, Founder of luxury vinyl flooring company Harvey Maria . ‘Pale coastal tones, with lots of knots and grain, work beautifully to create an elegant, rustic feel.’ 

The floor shown here is realistic wood-effect vinyl, which is a more practical option near a walk-in shower and offers excellent grip for wet feet.  

Likewise, a centrally placed bath makes it easy to reach and look after little ones at bath time. 

27. Add storage with a vanity unit

(Image credit: Maisons du Monde)

‘Choosing a bathroom vanity unit comes down to storage preferences. Go for 
a large cupboard style for towels and cleaning products or one with 
smaller drawers for make-up,’ says Ellis Dean Odey, creative designer at Catchpole & Rye. 

With its distinctive bow front and marble counter, this beautiful handcrafted piece has a stylish French look. 
Use it as a starting point for your decorating scheme and build your 
look around it with traditional sanitary ware.

Make 
sure you choose a vanity unit that will not overcrowd your bathroom. You should be able to open and close cupboard doors and have 
free passage around the room. 

Wood, preferably from a sustainable source, 
is a great option as it’s hardwearing, will 
cope with changes in room temperature 
and humidity, and if you want a different 
look down the line, it could be painted.  


For their practical but opulent feel, marble 
and stone tops are both lovely choices.

28. Zone your bathroom space

(Image credit: BC Designs)

When you're redesigning a country bathroom, it's worth reconfiguring it into zones. You could have the shower and bath on one side, with the basin and loo on the other, so that someone could pop in and brush their teeth while you’re doing bath time with the kids, for example. 

‘Choosing 
to have a wet room can actually be hugely beneficial when wanting a bath to sit in the same space,’ says Sally Cutchie, marketing manager at BC Designs. ‘If you opt for a painted bath, use exterior eggshell paint as this is extra durable around water,’ she adds. 

29. Turn up the drama with tiling

(Image credit: Polly Eltes/Future)

Play up the contrast between period country architecture and modern graphic pattern with a tiled wall that adds wow to the bathroom.

'We felt this house could take strong shades and pattern,' says homeowner. 'So we felt confident to choose bold tiles from Bert & May for the bathrooms that were playful and fun. The tiles are reflected in the mirror opposite, bringing a hint of pizzazz to the plainer side of the room.

30. Lay down a rug for colour and comfort

(Image credit: Kasia Fiszer/Future)

In this farmhouse bathroom bolthole, wooden floorboards are topped with a colorful striped rug for comfort. Panelling and wallpaper in complementary tones create a wraparound feel that adds to the air of coziness.

Painting the bath tub a bold orange shade and adding the bright green stool really makes this room stand out and will be sure to brighten every morning.

What tiles should I have in my country bathroom?

How you decide to use tile in your bathroom depends on the size of your room, its shape, and whether you want a modern country look or a more classic aesthetic.

'Wall-to-wall tile can bring a luxe look to a bathroom, and it can work in a country scheme when it's balanced with natural and patinated materials such as wood and warm metallics,' suggests Andréa Childs, Editor of Country Homes & Interiors magazine.  

'For a more relaxed look, opt for a tile backsplash behind the bath and basin, so that you can decorate the walls around with paper or paint. This often works well in a quirky or period property, where uneven walls or beams would interrupt the smooth finish of a tile wall.

'Use tile to bring texture, color and pattern into your country bathroom ideas. The artisan touch of a hand-glazed tile, or the undulating surface of a clay design, will bring charm and character to your room.'

What ideas work for a small country bathroom?

You can have a big vision when it comes to small bathroom ideas – in fact, it can be even more necessary to be creative when it comes to your design.

'There are a few tricks that interior designers use to trick the eye into believing a room is larger than it is,' says Andréa Childs, Editor of Country Homes & Interiors. 'Matching large-scale floor and wall tiles, plenty of natural light, minimal frames around screens and mirrors, and a pale color palette should all be in your style toolkit. '

Clever bathroom storage ideas are key to making the best use of space. 'And think about repurposing furniture for a unique look that fits your space – a side table can be reinvented as a neat vanity, or bathroom shelf ideas can create another elevated surface area to store toiletries and accessories,' suggests Andréa.

Andrea has been immersed in the world of homes, interiors and lifestyle since her first job in journalism, on Ideal Home. She went from women's magazine Options to Frank. From there it was on to the launch of Red magazine, where she stayed for 10 years and became Assistant Editor. She then shifted into freelancing, and spent 14 years writing for everyone from The Telegraph to The Sunday Times, Livingetc, Stylist and Woman & Home. She was then offered the job as Editor on Country Homes & Interiors, and now combines that role with writing for sister title homesandgardens.com. 

Top 6 Small Bathroom Design Ideas In 2021 Inexpensive And Stylish

The best way to afford a luxurious bathroom without paying too much for it is to find the right mosaic tile! Being the main element of the decor, it will help create the same wow effect.

A hot bath with fragrant foam, scented candles, pleasant music - the best way to relax after a long day at work. Still think that a small space limits the cherished dream? Enough! A small bathroom is not a reason to be upset at all, but it's time to turn on the creativity to the fullest and turn to original techniques. The smaller the space, the more carefully the preparation for its design should be carried out. Our task is to create not just a functional room, but also an aesthetic, comfortable atmosphere in which you can retire, relax and indulge in romantic dreams.

The best way to afford a luxurious bathroom without paying too much for it is to find the right mosaic tile! Being the main element of the decor, it will help create the same wow effect.

We recommend that you view the entire range of bathroom mosaics on our website.

Idea 1 - rustic style: enchanting cosiness

This light and airy room seems to be created to warm with its enchanting home comfort. In the decoration of walls and floors, give preference to a color ensemble of beige and wood shades. A truly elegant addition will be unpretentious elements of decor and furniture that imitate wood.

Small bathroom idea 2 - tropical paradise

Bring the spirit of summer and the jungle into the interior by turning your bathroom into a tropical oasis, fragrant with the freshness of the warm breeze and the riot of colors of the Gardens of Eden. Diamond Shell Mosaic TCJW-09 The exclusive Natural Shell Mosaic will bring you a relaxing atmosphere of never-ending vacation. Living indoor plants with lush and bright foliage will be an excellent addition.

A real salvation for a small bathroom - open shelves and shelves made of glass and wood. Unlike cabinets, they do not overload the interior, but on the contrary, they help to correctly use the space, while simultaneously performing a decorative function.

Idea 3 - rustic style in a small bathroom: how to tame the wild

A room in this style is absolutely perfect for those who want to replicate the luxury of a spa with a touch of natural comfort. Despite the fact that natural materials are not cheap nowadays, it is quite possible to create a rustic atmosphere based on budget analogues that will help create an equally stylish interior. A palette of natural shades will fill the space with the energy of the earth, the warmth of wood and the coolness of stone.

Rustic style is a unique opportunity to convey different tones, rhythms and moods of nature to your personal space.

Idea 4 - contemporary style in a small bathroom: metropolitan chic

time design.

Ergonomic design elements are critical. Using a variety of techniques, for example, the use of small mosaic tiles, a miniature washbasin, mirrors facilitates the visual perception of space and visually enlarges it.

Designer's tip! Brass-framed mirrors, faucets and other accessories enliven the cold aesthetics, adding a special gloss and harmony to the setting.

Idea 5 - discreet luxury

Do you want to recreate the magical atmosphere of a spa in your bathroom, able to dissolve everyday hustle and bustle, plunging you into a special state of meditative harmony and relaxation? Then follow our advice.

Designer's tip! Experiment with mirrors. An unusual composition of mirrors located opposite each other will help bring the game with a small space to a new level. And the use of fresh flowers and indoor plants in the interior will turn it into a real oasis of comfort and serenity. Notes of glamorous chic will help to bring a tile of contrasting, rich colors.

DNY-3 golden shade mosaic groans Italian marble Skalini Dynasty marble mosaic. Her palette perfectly balances the dominant brown color.

Idea 6 - a miniature bathroom: the triumph of functionality

No magic - the usual design tricks. You don't have to be Houdini to make your small bathroom look bigger. It's about knowing design secrets.
Everything needs balance, and if the space is small, then the objects in it must match. A metallic washbasin with a white washbasin will become an original dominant element of the basic color scheme of the decor and will create a very impressive effect. And 3D ornamental floors will be a real find and an excellent alternative to traditional tiles. Don't be afraid to experiment! Hanging shelves are amazing flexibility in terms of space organization and storage. Make them visually interesting by adding decorative elements of various shapes and heights.

The growing popularity of wall-hung washbasins is due to a number of undeniable advantages, where space savings play a dominant role. As an alternative to floor sanitary ware, they significantly free up floor space, as a result, the room looks spacious, light and elegant.

As you can see, the above examples prove that the number of square meters is not the most important thing. It's all about the original techniques with which the interior is decorated.

Be inspired to change and create a bathroom space that is not measured by size, but by comfort and coziness.

Author of the article: Colorist-expert Alexander Beglyarova

26. 11.2020

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Design of a small bathroom 2020

All that you read about the design of small bathrooms is unlikely to apply in a real apartment, and all the photos had nothing to do with your repair. I prepared 9adequate applicable advice and 103 photographs from ordinary real apartments after renovation and relocation , not in a perfectly clean room.