Small Bathroom Remodel Ideas That Make the Room Feel Bigger
The best ways to make a small bathroom feel larger are clear frameless glass instead of a curtain, a wall-hung vanity, large-format tile with fewer grout lines, a recessed medicine cabinet, a pocket door and bright, layered lighting.
Ideas that work
- Frameless glass panel instead of a shower curtain
- Wall-hung (floating) vanity to show more floor
- Large-format tile on floor and walls
- Recessed medicine cabinet and shower niche
- Pocket or barn door instead of a swing door
- Light, consistent color palette
- Vertical tile layout to emphasize ceiling height
- Wall-mounted faucet to save counter depth
Layout first
In a 5-by-8 bathroom, moving the toilet even a few inches can free up space — but plumbing moves add cost, so we'll show you options both ways.
Updated November 2026 · Typical installed price ranges, not quotes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a walk-in shower good for a small bathroom?
Often yes — a glass-enclosed shower feels much larger than a tub with a curtain.
How much does a small bathroom remodel cost?
In Costa Mesa, about $15,000–$30,000 for a full small-bath renovation.
Your new bathroom starts with a free quote.
In-home quotes across Costa Mesa and West Orange County · Mon–Sat 9–5