Tiny rental bathrooms can feel more like cramped closets than calming sanctuaries – but don’t let the size (or the landlord’s restrictions) get you down. With a little creativity and the right know-how, even the smallest, darkest bathroom can be transformed into a bright and breezy retreat.
You don’t need a gut renovation or a major budget – just a few clever tweaks and a solid understanding of what not to do.
In this guide, I’m sharing 10 smart tricks to lighten up your rental bathroom and 7 common mistakes that could be dimming your style and space without you even realizing it.
1. Mirrors, Mirrors on the Wall
Reflective surfaces can work magic in a small bathroom. By strategically placing mirrors, you can create an illusion of space and amplify available light. One over the sink is classic, but why not add one behind the door?
This trick not only enhances brightness but adds depth. While a mirror with a quirky frame can double as wall art, opting for mirrored cabinets can provide additional storage without sacrificing style.
Ever considered a mirrored backsplash? Now’s the time to reflect on it! Mirrors are indeed a bright idea for any small space.
2. Light up with LED Strips
LED strips are like fairy lights for adults. Affix them under cabinets, along shelves, or around mirrors to cast a soft glow that makes any bathroom feel more open and inviting.
These energy-efficient lights come in various colors, allowing you to customize the ambiance. For a spa-like effect, choose a warm white.
Installing them is as easy as peeling and sticking, making them perfect for renters. Plus, they’re often waterproof, ensuring safety even in the steamiest showers. Let there be light, and let it be LED!
3. Embrace Light Colors
Color can dramatically impact how we perceive space. Light, pastel shades open up a room, reflecting more light than darker hues. Think soft blues, pale pinks, or classic white.
Even the ceiling can participate in this light game! Complement these hues with similarly colored towels and rugs for a cohesive look. If painting isn’t an option, consider removable wallpaper or decals to add personality.
4. Play with Patterns
No, patterns aren’t just for fashionistas – they’re a splash in bathroom design too. Introducing patterned tiles or shower curtains adds visual interest and can draw attention away from size limitations.
Geometric designs create a modern vibe, while floral patterns bring a touch of whimsy. For those in rentals, removable wallpaper or decals provide temporary style shifts that are tenant-friendly.
Patterns break the monotony and can make your tiny bathroom feel like a chic boutique hotel. Who knew small could be so stylish?
5. Maximize Natural Light
If you’re lucky enough to have a window, make the most of it! Natural light not only brightens but also enlarges a space.
Opt for sheer curtains or blinds that let the sunshine pour in while maintaining privacy. If privacy isn’t an issue, consider going curtain-less for an unobstructed glow. Adding plants on the windowsill can create a fresh, lively feel.
Remember, natural light is the best friend of any tiny bathroom, turning it from a cramped nook into an airy escape.
6. Go Green with Plants
Plants are nature’s air fresheners and can bring life into any dull bathroom. Hardy varieties like pothos or ferns thrive in moist environments.
Hang them in macrame holders or place them on shelves to save space. Their greenery can add a pop of color and texture, breaking up the monotony of tiles and fixtures. Not only do they purify the air, but they also create a serene atmosphere.
7. Accessorize with Glass
Make a space feel more open and organized with some glass accessories. Use glass jars for storage, holding cotton balls, bath salts, or even toothbrushes.
Their transparency allows light to pass through, enhancing the brightness. Glass shelves can also add a modern touch without cluttering the visual space.
Don’t shy away from using glass containers for everything from soap dispensers to flower vases. The clear advantage? They blend seamlessly with any color scheme and style.
8. Opt for Open Shelving
Open shelving is both functional and decorative. It encourages tidiness and allows you to display aesthetically pleasing items like neatly rolled towels or decorative jars.
Wood shelves add warmth, metal brings modernity, and glass is perfect for a minimalist vibe. The key is to keep it organized to avoid a cluttered look.
Mix functional items with decorative pieces to personalize the space. Open shelves invite the eye to move around the room, creating a sense of spaciousness even in tight quarters.
9. Install a Skylight
If you have the option, a skylight can transform a small bathroom into a sunlit sanctuary. Natural light has a way of making spaces feel expansive and airy.
A skylight brings the outdoors in, allowing you to bask in daylight while enjoying privacy. If installation isn’t possible, consider an artificial light fixture that mimics a skylight’s glow.
10. Use Multi-functional Furniture
In a space where every inch counts, multi-functional furniture is key. Think vanities with built-in storage or foldable stools that tuck away when not in use.
A ladder shelf can hold towels while doubling as a decorative piece. Such furniture maximizes functionality without overcrowding. By choosing pieces that serve more than one purpose, you create a streamlined flow that makes even a tiny bathroom feel uncluttered.
1. Gothic Chandeliers
Gothic chandeliers, with their intricate designs and dark metal finishes, can add an air of mystery. However, they often cast more shadows than light. Imagine walking into a bathroom with a chandelier that resembles the entrance to a medieval castle.
The ambiance is enchanting, but perhaps not ideal for applying makeup. The shadows dance with the flicker of candles, creating an atmosphere more suited for a haunted mansion than a fresh morning routine. Opt for softer lighting fixtures if you prefer a brighter start to your day.
2. Heavy Velvet Curtains
Heavy velvet curtains exude luxury and opulence. When draped across windows, they create a plush, theatrical setting. Yet, their dense fabric blocks sunlight more effectively than a blackout blind.
You might feel as if you’ve stepped into a vintage theater rather than a refreshing spa. While these curtains provide privacy, they might lead to a dim and somber space, especially if the color leans towards dark shades.
3. Dark Tile Flooring
Dark tile flooring can add a touch of elegance and sophistication. However, it absorbs light rather than reflecting it.
Stepping onto this type of floor might feel like traversing a shadowy path. The tiles’ rich hues can dominate the room, creating an impression of dusk even during the day. If you’re not a fan of gloomy undertones, lighter tiles might make the space appear larger and more inviting.
4. Moody Wall Paint
Moody wall paints like deep blue or charcoal can create a cozy, intimate vibe. Yet, they also absorb a lot of light, making spaces feel smaller and more enclosed.
Picture a room where the walls close in, wrapping you in their dark embrace. While this can be perfect for a calming bath, it might not be suitable for a morning wake-up.
To ensure brightness, consider using these paints as accents rather than the main color palette.
5. Oversized Bathtub
An oversized bathtub is the epitome of luxury. Its grand presence can transform any bathroom into a spa-like retreat. Its size, however, can overshadow the space, blocking light and creating a dim corner.
You may find yourself enveloped in shadow, as the tub claims the spotlight. For those who cherish open, airy environments, a more modest-sized tub might better suit your needs.
6. Dark Wood Cabinets
If you want some warmth and a touch of classic style to bathrooms, dark wood cabinets sound amazing. Their rich tones can make the room feel snug and welcoming.
However, they also absorb light, making the area feel dimmer, especially if the bathroom lacks natural light. The cabinets’ stately presence can dominate, casting shadows that might overshadow your grooming routine.
If brightness is a priority, consider mixing in lighter elements or reflective surfaces to lift the overall ambiance.
17. Dark Shower Curtains
Dark shower curtains can add a dramatic flair to your bathroom. Their heavy fabric and rich colors create a sense of enclosure, turning the shower into a secluded haven.
The bad part? They also block light, casting a shadow over your daily rituals. It’s like pulling a curtain on a stage, where the main act is dimmed.
For those yearning for a brighter space, consider lighter, more translucent materials that allow light to filter through.