Living in Los Angeles means making the most of every square foot. With rising real estate prices and the popularity of charming, older homes, many Angelenos find themselves working with compact bathrooms. But small doesn’t have to mean cramped or cluttered. With thoughtful design, strategic choices, and a bit of creativity, you can transform your small bathroom into a space that feels open, airy, and inviting.
Here are expert tips tailored for Los Angeles homes to help make your small bathroom feel bigger:
Use Light, Neutral Colors
In a city like Los Angeles, where sunshine is abundant, you can take advantage of natural light to make your bathroom feel larger. Soft, neutral tones like whites, beiges, pale grays, or pastels reflect light and open up the space visually. Paint the walls, ceiling, and even the cabinetry in light colors to create a seamless, expansive look.
If your bathroom lacks windows, consider warm whites with a satin finish to bounce artificial light and prevent the space from feeling flat or sterile.
Install Large Mirrors
Mirrors are one of the simplest ways to double the perceived space in a small bathroom. A large mirror above the sink or even a full wall mirror can reflect both light and surroundings, making the room feel twice its size.
In Los Angeles homes where style matters, consider a custom-framed mirror that complements your design while maximizing space. Frameless or floating mirrors work well for modern and minimalist looks.
Opt for a Floating Vanity or Pedestal Sink
Floor space is visual space. By choosing a floating vanity or pedestal sink, you expose more floor area, creating a lighter, less bulky appearance. A floating vanity also offers the bonus of under-sink storage for small baskets or decorative bins.
In tight quarters, a corner sink can also save precious inches without sacrificing functionality perfect for vintage LA bungalows or guest bathrooms in Spanish-style homes.
Use Glass Shower Doors
Ditching the traditional shower curtain and opting for a frameless glass shower door makes a massive difference in opening up your space. A clear, unobstructed line of sight extends the view and prevents the bathroom from feeling cut in half.
If privacy is a concern, consider lightly frosted or textured glass that still allows light flow while offering a subtle screen.
Maximize Vertical Storage
When square footage is limited, go up—not out. Install floating shelves, tall cabinets, or wall-mounted organizers to take advantage of vertical space.
In Los Angeles homes, where style meets function, you can combine open shelving with decorative baskets or jars to keep things organized while adding a personal touch. Recessed shelving in the shower area or above the toilet is another space-saving solution that doesn’t protrude into the room.
Incorporate Recessed or Minimalist Lighting
Bulky light fixtures can overwhelm a small bathroom. Recessed lighting or wall sconces free up space and create a clean, streamlined look. Natural daylight is a big bonus, so if you’re planning a renovation, consider adding a skylight a popular feature in many Southern California homes.
Dimmer switches are another great addition, allowing you to create a spa-like ambiance without adding clutter.
Choose Large Floor Tiles
It might sound counterintuitive, but larger floor tiles (such as 12×24 or even 24×24 inches) can make a small bathroom look bigger. Fewer grout lines mean less visual interruption, which gives the illusion of a more expansive floor.
Stick to light-colored tiles with minimal pattern for the best effect. Bonus: light-colored tiles stay cooler in the LA heat!
Declutter and Embrace Minimalism
Small bathrooms cannot afford clutter. Store only what you need, and keep countertops as clear as possible. Use built-in storage options and limit your color palette to 2–3 hues for a cleaner, more cohesive appearance.
In Los Angeles, where interior design often reflects a laid-back, breezy lifestyle, a minimalist approach can also increase the resale value of your home.
Add a Touch of Greenery
A small potted plant or a wall-mounted succulent arrangement can add freshness and life to your bathroom without taking up much space. Choose low-maintenance plants like snake plants, pothos, or air plants that thrive in humidity.
This small design element adds vibrancy and fits well with the indoor-outdoor living style popular in many LA neighborhoods.
Making a small bathroom feel bigger doesn’t always require a major renovation. By using space-smart techniques and thoughtful design, you can create a functional, stylish bathroom that feels open and serene even in the heart of Los Angeles. Whether you live in a cozy Venice cottage, a Highland Park craftsman, or a downtown loft, thanks for Kitchen and Bath Los Angeles’s team of expert’s tips you can turn your small bathroom into one of your favorite rooms in the house.
Also Read: Kitchen Trends Taking Over Los Angeles Homes