Small Bathroom, Big Changes: 10 Before-and-After Transformations

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Last updated on October 28, 2024

When it comes to remodeling small bathrooms, it often seems like options are limited. However, our design team at Schloegel has tackled countless small baths in need of upgrades, consistently delivering creative, thoughtful, and stylish solutions to the common challenges these spaces present. With clever design choices and innovative storage solutions, you can turn a cramped area into a bright and inviting retreat that truly reflects your personal style. This week, we’re excited to showcase ten inspiring small bathroom transformations that demonstrate how even the tiniest of spaces can possess immense potential. Get ready to explore ideas that will reassure you that a stunning, functional bathroom is within reach!
 

Before: A Tired Powder Bath

This powder bath, while once charming in its own way, had become a relic of outdated design. The stark white walls felt bland and lifeless, offering little visual interest, much like the tired cabinetry that accompanied them. The faux marble countertop, though it attempted to inject some personality, ultimately missed the mark for what our clients envisioned. To make matters worse, the undersized faucet struggled to keep up with the bathroom’s frequent use, further emphasizing the need for a functional and aesthetic update.

 

After: Packed With Delight

This powder bath is now brimming with character and rich texture! The vibrant persimmon wallpaper instantly commands attention and has quickly become a favorite here at the Schloegel offices. The countertop, a fortunate find after the original selection was damaged in transit, turned out to be a serendipitous choice that our clients fell in love with. The new floating vanity, with its charming beadboard drawer fronts, adds a touch of craftsmanship and warmth to the design. Complementing this are the brass fixtures and green trim, which together evoke a romantic, cohesive ambiance. We were able to retain the existing lighting fixtures and flooring, tying the old and new elements together seamlessly.

Designer: Nina Schmidt

 

 

Before: Dark and Dreary

This powder bath, with its overly ornate and dated design, was in need of a refresh, especially as part of the larger renovation our clients had undertaken. In a small bathroom like this, the dark wallpaper added a sense of heaviness, making the room feel even more confined—a common pitfall when working with limited square footage. The aging acrylic molded sink and counter, paired with the natural oak cabinetry and traditional fixtures, gave the room an outdated look that no longer aligned with our clients’ modern vision. Compounding the issue was the single flush-mounted light fixture above the vanity, which cast a dim, unflattering light, leaving the space feeling dreary.

 

 

After: Seeing the Light In Pink and Brass

The newly transformed powder bath is now a vibrant and inviting space. A fresh coat of white paint enhances the room’s brightness and openness. A new statement chandelier above the vanity, provides not only functional lighting but adds a touch of elegance to the overall design. Adding a playful twist, the pink cabinet introduces a refreshing pop of color, perfectly complementing the new brass accents throughout the space. A charming ledge above the wall-mounted faucet offers practical space for decorative items or essentials. This thoughtful combination strikes a balance between modern flair and traditional charm.

Designers: Donna Kirsopp & Kenny Choikhit

 

 

Before: A  Bath in the Dark

This upstairs hall bathroom lacked natural light. Its combination of dark tiles, a tan wall color, and a black vanity mirror created a sense of blandness that did little to inspire. Our clients envisioned a brighter, more welcoming environment for their guests, one that would not only enhance the space’s functionality but also transform it into a cheerful retreat.

After: A Bath That Sparkles

The redesigned bath now radiates brightness and showcases just the right amount of personality and style. The white floor-to-ceiling shower tile creates a clean and spacious look. Embracing a sense of playfulness, our clients opted for small mosaic floor tiles arranged in a chic diamond pattern, adding a touch of visual interest without overwhelming the space. The new vanity has been thoughtfully updated to provide increased counter space and ample cabinet storage. A natural wood finish introduces an organic element and brings warmth and texture. Additionally, we replaced the old, harsh vanity light with a softer, more contemporary fixture, ensuring the space is well-lit while maintaining a cozy and inviting ambiance. The result is a beautifully balanced bathroom that perfectly marries style with practicality.

Designer: Maggie Stephenson

Before: A Tiny Forgotten Space

This tiny powder bath exuded an overly utilitarian vibe, offering just enough space to navigate but little else. The pedestal sink, while functional, served only for washing, contributing to a design that lacked any sense of style or warmth. Despite having its own window, the room still felt dreary and dark, failing to take advantage of natural light. As we were already engaged in several other areas of the home, our clients expressed a desire for every space, including this one, to feel intentional and cohesive. They envisioned a powder bath that would not only serve its practical purpose but also reflect their personal style, creating a welcoming atmosphere that harmonizes with the overall design of their home.

 

After: Small But Mighty

A small space doesn’t mean sacrificing design; instead, it can be a canvas for creativity. We reworked the footprint on this main floor, which included moving the bathroom and giving it a little more square footage. Our clients embraced the opportunity to infuse their powder bath with a sense of fun and lightheartedness. We successfully incorporated various unique elements into this compact area, starting with the bold patterned wallpaper that served as the foundation for our design—adding new rustic textured tile in a herringbone pattern anchors the space, adding depth and character. We included a full freestanding navy vanity that now provides ample storage and counter space. To amp up the charm, we added beadboard wainscoting. Even the vanity mirror came from our client’s past home, and we selected a matte black light fixture to mix the metals. Overall, the combination of vibrant patterns and rich textures transforms what was once a cramped area into a lively powder bath brimming with character and charm.

Designers: Kelly Summers & Lindsay Brungardt

 

Before: Bland & Uninspiring

This basement bath was functional but ultimately uninspiring, equipped with all the necessary elements for use yet lacking any features that would make it enjoyable to experience. The vanity, while the only real touch of style in the room, offered little in terms of storage, leaving the space feeling sparse and uninviting. The stark white walls paired with the white marble flooring created a sterile environment that felt like a blank canvas—one that needed a vision to bring it to life. Eager for change, our clients were excited to completely reimagine this area and seamlessly blend it with the ongoing renovations in the rest of their basement.

 

After: A Speakeasy-Inspired Throne Room

This newly designed bathroom is one you’ll find yourself seeking excuses to use! We chose to embrace the secluded basement location by using a moody black paint color as a dramatic base, setting the stage for a bold and sophisticated design. Every inch of this bath received a dramatic upgrade, including the toilet. Brass accents abound in this beautifully curated room, including an open-frame vanity topped with a stunning marble countertop and complemented by a stylish brass faucet. The two brass industrial wall sconces not only provide ample illumination but also contribute to the room’s chic vibe. In contrast, a new vanity mirror with a brass frame ties everything together beautifully. The combination of moody hues and luxurious details transforms this bathroom into a captivating retreat that is both functional and visually striking.

 

 

Before: A Blank Family Bath

This bathroom had seen better days. Our clients were eager to address the failing plumbing and enhance the functionality of this compact area. The existing vessel sink not only lacked adequate storage but also offered limited workspace, making daily routines a challenge. Across the room, the tub and shower combo was showing its age, with cracked drywall and noticeable deterioration at the seams and plumbing fixtures. With only a single upjohn wall cabinet to store their bathroom supplies, the space felt cluttered and disorganized. Recognizing the need for a complete overhaul, our clients envisioned a more functional and inviting bathroom that would better accommodate their family’s needs.

 

After: A Spa-Like Retreat 

We successfully incorporated all the items on our clients’ wish list—and then some—into this compact bathroom! Our journey began with the demolition of a hall closet that had been housing toiletries in the adjacent hallway, allowing us to reclaim a few valuable square feet. No need to worry about storage; we replaced that lost space with deep open shelving and a lower cabinet across from the new toilet. We transformed the bathing experience with a brand-new full-size shower equipped with a double shower head and a convenient niche for toiletries. We also replaced the old pedestal sink with a spacious vanity featuring a sleek quartz countertop. To keep the countertop clear, we installed a wall-mounted faucet, complete with an electrical outlet for added convenience. Above the vanity, a double mirror and medicine cabinet provide generous storage for everyone’s toiletries. Additionally, we swapped out the swinging door for a space-saving pocket door. The new color combination of natural maple, teal tilework, and black fixture accents adds a vibrant touch, making this once-cramped bathroom not only functional but also visually striking and inviting!

 

 

Before: Overly Ornate

These clients were undertaking a series of updates throughout their home to better align with their evolving style. Unfortunately, the hall bath had become a mismatch with its overly traditional features, which no longer suited their contemporary aesthetic. The dark granite countertops featured a busy pattern that felt dated and out of place. Additionally, the ornate faucet, wall sconces, and vanity mirror clashed with one another, creating a visual competition that detracted from the space’s overall appeal.

 

 

After: A Powder Bath with Punch

The newly designed bath now crackles with energy with a new brightly colored patterned wallpaper. To create a more open and airy feel, we replaced the bulky built-in vanity with a sleek floating vanity crafted from quartz with a faux marble finish. This contemporary piece is complemented by a stylish wall-mounted faucet and vessel sink, creating the perfect washing station. Flanking the sink, a new pair of opposing wall sconces maintain the symmetrical look that the previous design had but with a fresh, modern twist. Each fixture features a chic brass finish that beautifully complements the vibrant green wallpaper, tying the entire design together. Adding a layer of texture and warmth, the wicker-wrapped frame of the new vanity mirror enhances the natural feel of the space. To complete the look, we installed white marble tile on the floor, providing a clean finish.

Designer: Megan Bringman

Before: A Cramped Condo Bath

This bathroom, located within a condo, had a pass-through or jack-and-jill layout, severely restricting its functional possibilities. The existing paint and finishes were in dire need of a refresh. The shower area, which featured a window, had a traditional sill that was ill-suited for a moist environment. Additionally, the shower’s layout was less than ideal, with a bench seat awkwardly tucked into an L-shape that mirrored the shower door, ultimately wasting precious space that could have been better utilized. To make matters worse, the tile within the shower was beginning to show signs of wear and disrepair, further detracting from the bathroom’s appeal.

 

After:  A Simplified Layout For More Space

The biggest impact in this small bathroom came from a few strategic layout changes that significantly enhanced its functionality. By removing one of the doorways, we created a more private atmosphere and allowed for more breathing room. This change also made way for a large decorative mirror that visually expands the area. We redesigned the shower into a more standard rectangular shape and reversed the shower door’s swing, eliminating movement restrictions within the bathroom. The once-bulky framed shower door has been replaced with a sleek minimal frameless design. Our client was fond of the original black and white mosaic tile, so we sourced the same tile to incorporate into the shower floor, paired with classic white subway tile for the floor-to-ceiling shower walls. We replaced the built-in bench seat with a more minimal floating style one. While we retained the existing open-frame sink, we upgraded the toilet to a more decorative model that complements the updated design. The entire space received a fresh coat of paint, creating a much more inviting space.

Designer: Kelly Summers

Kansas City Plaza condo bathroom remodel

Before: Both Florid and Intense

This powder bath was part of a larger remodel that had our team providing the home with an English vibe. This space did not at all fit in to that category. The vanity was bulky and overly ornate as well as the lighting fixtures. The bold red color seemed to shrink the space, making it feel oppressive and uncomfortably vibrant.

After: A Playful Space

The newly designed powder bath is brimming with personality, featuring a bold new wallpaper that serves as a striking focal point, complemented by freshly painted trim. The open-frame vanity enhances the sense of space while incorporating a small quartz shelf for essential toiletries. A playful triple globe lighting fixture adds a warm glow and element of whimsy. The brass finishes throughout enhance its charm and makes the room shine. Overall, this powder bath is a delightful blend of vibrant design and thoughtful details.

Designer: Megan Bringman

Before: Too Much Tile

This hall bath was overwhelmed by excessive tiling, with all of the fixtures and finishes out of date after decades without updates. Our clients were eager to transform the space, aiming to make better use of the available area while infusing it with a modern aesthetic.

After: Lovely in Lilac

The newly designed powder bath now boasts a much more refined look, enhanced by stylish features. We replaced the outdated shell-style pedestal sink with a sleek, contemporary marble sink with lilac veining, paired with a wall-mounted faucet that saves space and adds a modern touch. We installed all-new wallpaper with a subtle texture that adds depth while maintaining elegance. We installed small hexagonal marble floor tiling that offers a fresh and sophisticated look. To further maximize the space, we installed a wall-mounted toilet.

 

 

 

Feeling inspired? Contact our design team today to transform your space!