Experts advise avoiding certain design elements to prevent a bathroom from feeling small, regardless of its square footage. Factors such as poor lighting, dark color schemes, and bold patterns can contribute to a cramped space. While an oversized vanity may offer ample storage, it can visually crowd the room. Designers Lauren Lerner, Theresa Butler, and Kerith Flynn share insights on these design faux pas to steer clear of in order to create a more spacious feel in your bathroom.
1. Optimal Lighting: Proper lighting is key to creating a sense of openness in a bathroom. Insufficient or dim lighting can cast shadows, diminishing the perceived size of the space. Designers recommend selecting lighting fixtures that offer both functionality and style, ensuring they are strategically placed to enhance the overall ambiance.
2. Lighter Color Schemes: Dark or saturated paint colors can make a bathroom feel enclosed and smaller. Instead, opt for lighter, neutral tones that reflect light and create an illusion of spaciousness. Avoiding dark hues can help maintain a sense of openness, especially in bathrooms lacking natural light.
3. Minimize Clutter: Cluttered countertops can visually overwhelm a bathroom and reduce usable space. Adequate hidden storage solutions are essential to keep surfaces free from excess items. Avoid stacking beauty products, towels, or cleaning supplies on countertops to prevent the space from looking chaotic and disorganized.
4. Subdued Patterns: Bold and intricate patterns can visually clutter a bathroom, making it appear smaller. While patterns can add visual interest, excessive busyness can contribute to a sense of confinement. Carefully consider the use of patterns in elements such as tiles, wall paneling, or wallpaper to maintain a cohesive and spacious feel in the room.
“Avoid bold designs on walls, floors, or accessories as they can distract from the space and make it difficult to appreciate the room’s layout,” advises the expert. Another key consideration is the size of the bathroom vanity, as it impacts both practicality and visual appeal. “While a large vanity can provide ample storage, an oversized or deep one can overpower a small bathroom,” cautions Flynn. To prevent the area from feeling cramped, Flynn suggests steering clear of bulky vanities that occupy too much floor space or protrude too far from the wall. For more information, please refer to the original article on Better Homes & Gardens.
