How to furnish a small and rectangular bathroom with taste

Furnishing the bathroom can turn out to be a complicated challenge, not only for decor novices but also for the most expert and connoisseurs of interior design. The bathroom, usually the smallest and least illuminated space in the house, needs small measures to enhance the shape and optimize its spaces. In this article, we will provide you with some simple and practical tips on how to furnish a small and rectangular bathroom with taste.

Furnish a small bathroom by exploiting the rectangular layout

First of all, it must be said that the rectangular shape of the bathroom can offer different design possibilities, therefore it is necessary to define how to exploit the long walls and the short walls of the room.

Make the best use of the long walls of a small rectangular bathroom

The long walls of a small rectangular bathroom represent the main element that can be optimized. Positioning the washbasin, sanitary ware, and also a storage unit along one of the walls allows for the creation of a linear and orderly layout. This type of layout favors a better circulation of space, leaving the other wall free for any mirrors or decorations.

Make the best use of the short walls of a small rectangular bathroom

The short walls of a small rectangular bathroom can instead be exploited in a creative way to maximize space. One of the most common choices is to place the shower enclosure on one of the short walls. A corner or a walk-in shower, delimited by transparent glass, is ideal to not visually weigh down the space. Alternatively, it is possible to use a short wall for a built-in niche or to hang shelves for storing towels and accessories.

Watchword: space-saving furniture

To furnish a small rectangular bathroom with taste, one of the first steps relates to the choice of the right furniture, focusing one's attention on wall-hung bathroom furniture and space-saving furniture. Each element must have a precise function and contribute to optimizing the available space.

Here is some practical advice:

• Compact and wall-hung washbasin: A small wall-hung washbasin not only frees up space underneath but also contributes to creating a lighter visual effect. Some models include a storage base or integrated shelves for storing towels and bathroom products.

• Multifunctional cabinet: Choose furniture with drawers or doors to maximize the internal space. For example, a vanity unit under the sink with divided sections can house both toiletries and cleaning products. Furthermore, another solution can be provided by wall storage units, to be placed next to the washbasin, which allow you to exploit every centimeter of your space.

• Wall-hung sanitary ware: Just like the washbasin, wall-hung sanitary ware, such as the toilet and bidet, are an excellent choice for small bathrooms. Not only do they simplify cleaning the floor, but they also leave a free visual space that makes the bathroom seem larger.

• Shelves and corner furniture: This type of solutions are to be taken into consideration in your projects for a rectangular bathroom, as they allow you to exploit further space that can be used to store or display bathroom products and furnishing accessories (e.g., small plants, room fragrances, scented salts, etc.).

Furnishing a small bathroom with details that make the difference

There are several stratagems that you can use to furnish your small bathroom, from the correct use of artificial and natural light, to the choice of the most suitable shower enclosure, strategically positioned mirrors, and so on. Below we propose a general overview that can help you make the best use of every space in your bathroom.

Exploit natural light

Natural light is one of the most useful elements to transform a small bathroom into a bright and welcoming space. If the bathroom has a window, even a small one, making the best use of it is fundamental. Below, some useful tips:

• Choose light curtains: Opt for roller blinds or transparent fabrics like linen or organza, which let light filter through without compromising privacy.
• Reflective finishes: Materials like glass, polished metal, or glazed tiles amplify natural light and create an effect of greater depth.
• Bright niches: If possible, create niches in the walls to place plants or accessories that enhance natural light, making the space more welcoming.

Use artificial lighting correctly

In the absence of adequate natural light, or for evening hours, artificial lighting must be carefully designed to avoid shadows and make the bathroom functional and elegant. Below we offer you some solutions that can be adapted according to the different needs of your bathroom:

• LED spotlights: Install recessed spotlights in the ceiling for a diffused and homogeneous light. They are ideal for not visually weighing down the space and ensuring uniform illumination.
• Mirror lights: Insert LED strips or sconces on the sides of the mirror to eliminate shadows on the face; this solution is ideal for make-up or shaving.
• Atmosphere lighting: Add LED strips under wall-hung furniture or in niches to create an elegant and modern effect.
• Color temperature: Prefer lights with neutral shades for a natural and welcoming effect, avoiding overly cold or warm shades.

Furnish your small bathroom by choosing the right shower

The choice of the shower is crucial to optimize the space in a small rectangular bathroom. There are different solutions that combine functionality and aesthetics, here are some:

• Corner shower: A corner shower enclosure is perfect for making the best use of one of the corners of the bathroom. With sliding or hinged doors in transparent glass, it reduces the visual impact and facilitates movement in the space.
• Walk-in shower: A floor-level shower with glass panels is a minimalist and contemporary choice. Ideal for long and narrow bathrooms, it creates visual continuity and increases the perception of space.
• Slim shower tray: Choose slim or floor-level shower trays for a discreet and elegant solution, avoiding superfluous clutter.

Use “strategic” mirrors

A large mirror, perhaps with integrated lighting, is a fundamental element in a small bathroom. It can be positioned above the washbasin to reflect light and visually expand the space. For a touch of design, you could consider bathroom mirrors with thin frames or with particular shapes, such as round or oval.

How to furnish a small rectangular bathroom by choosing the right tiles

When designing a rectangular bathroom, keep in mind that tiles can play a fundamental role in the decor. The choice of format, color, and layout can significantly influence the perception of space. Below are some tips that can help you in your choice:

• Large format tiles: Even in small spaces, large format tiles can be an excellent choice. By reducing the number of grout lines, a uniform surface is obtained that visually amplifies the space.
• Vertical tiles: Placing tiles vertically on the walls can create the illusion of a higher ceiling, giving greater momentum to the room.
• Light and neutral color: Shades such as white, beige, or light gray contribute to making the bathroom brighter and more spacious.
• Decorative details: Inserting a decorative strip or a mosaic in strategic points, such as in the shower or behind the washbasin, adds character to the room without weighing down the environment
• Glossy materials: Glazed tiles reflect light and amplify both natural and artificial brightness.

How to furnish a small bathroom by visually expanding the space playing with light colors

The use of light colors is one of the strategies that can be adopted to visually expand a small and rectangular bathroom. Bright and neutral shades not only reflect light better but also contribute to creating a more welcoming and less claustrophobic environment. Below are some tips to transform your environment through color harmony:

• Neutral tints for the walls: Choose shades such as white, beige, cream, or light gray for the walls, so as to create a uniform base that expands the perception of space.
• Coordinated floors: A floor in light colors, such as beige tiles or a bleached wood effect, increases the feeling of visual continuity.
• Soft accents: Add small touches of pastel color, such as powder blue or sage green, to give personality without compromising overall brightness.
• Tone-on-tone tiles: Use tiles of the same color, but with different textures, to add depth without weighing down the environment.

As you have noticed, furnishing a small and rectangular bathroom with taste requires creativity, attention to detail, and a good knowledge of the spaces available. In this article, we have given you some practical tips that can serve you in designing your rectangular bathroom. Play, experiment, dare, to transform your bathroom into your small design oasis!