Cramped Bathroom Makeover

Before: Stuck in the 1980s, this bathroom had one big drawback (other than it’s pink decorating scheme): boxed in pipework behind the toilet and at the end of the bath, both of which created ugly lines within the room.

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Before

After

After: This classic bathroom layout is one that many of us are stuck with. So how to make it look good while being practical?

Build-In Storage For Sleek Lines

The right hand wall was brought forward to hide the pipework and to allow for a built-in cupboard and a wall-hung, back-to-the-wall toilet. Doing so kept the bathroom storage hidden and gave the room the straight lines it lacked before, helping it to feel bigger and better.

Add Interest With Tiles

To add an element of decoration to an otherwise cramped space, plain tiles were rejected in favour of traditionally patterned ones with a metallic glimmer. These bathroom tiles were carried on to the bath panel, and this continuation helps exaggerates space, too.

Fit Light Reflecting Wallcoverings

Whether wallpaper or tiles, ensure it has a glimmer to it if it's in a small space. Doing so creates a feeling of depth and helps reflect light.

Save Space

A towel rail sits at the end of the bath, which helps save space elsewhere, and a plain glass screen blends into the background to help heighten the feeling of space.

For More Ideas & Advice

- Plan A Small Bathroom - design and planning advice
- Bathroom Design Ideas - inspiration for your scheme
- Bathroom Planning Advice - from layouts to regs
- Bathroom Buyer's Guides - from flooring to basins

Pictures: Colin Poole