According to an article published by The Spruce, even spacious bathrooms can feel small, cluttered and far from relaxing when certain decoration and planning mistakes are made.
+ 6 kitchen design tweaks that make cooking much easier
Interior designers consulted by the website explain which five factors most contribute to a cramped feeling in the bathroom — and how to reverse them in a simple way.
1. Too many items on the countertops
The buildup of objects on the sink, on the bathtub edge or in the shower niche creates visual clutter and makes the bathroom look smaller.
“Just like in the kitchen, countertop clutter makes the space feel smaller,” says Candis Stratton, designer and owner of Stratton Interiors, to The Spruce.
The recommendation is to invest in cabinets or shelves to store towels, products and accessories, keeping only the essentials visible.
2. Choosing tiles that are too small
According to The Spruce, overly detailed or small tiles confuse the eye, creating a sense of tightness.
“This can be hard for the brain to process,” explains Chasity Centeno, designer and owner of Riese Design. She notes that spas use large tiles because they are visually more relaxing.
Large-format tiles, such as 30×60 cm, and neutral colors help visually expand the space.
3. Using the wrong mirrors
Poorly positioned or disproportionate mirrors can visually shrink the space.
“If the mirror is too low, it can make the entire vanity area feel cramped,” says Stratton to The Spruce.
Centeno advises hanging the mirror aligned between the light fixture and the countertop, ensuring better light distribution and a greater sense of spaciousness.
4. Inadequate lighting
The article highlights that lighting is one of the biggest factors influencing how big a space feels. Fixtures that are too large, too small or insufficient lighting make the bathroom feel heavy.
“Without adequate lighting, spaces can feel smaller,” says Centeno.
Whenever possible, prioritize natural light — a larger window can completely transform the room.
5. Clothes left on the floor
According to The Spruce, clothes thrown on the floor take up space and make the bathroom look messy.
“Use a laundry basket to keep things organized and the space free,” says Stratton. In small bathrooms, it may be worth having a designated laundry area outside the bathroom.
Source: The Spruce. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
