Design by C&C Partners / Photo by Beverly Glenn
Maximizing a small bathroom may seem challenging, but minimalists have mastered the art of simplicity and smart design. By embracing these principles, they transform even the smallest spaces into peaceful retreats. Curious about their secrets? We’ve consulted some minimalist design experts to share their top tips for creating understated yet stunning bathrooms.
Meet the Experts:
– Andrea Goldman: Founder of Andrea Goldman Design
– Emily Ruff: CEO and Principal Designer at Cohesively Curated Interiors
– Patrick Cunningham: Co-founder of C&C Partners
Round Mirrors:
In any bathroom, especially a minimalist one, adding character without overwhelming the space can be tricky. Your vanity mirror presents an opportunity to do just that. Emily Ruff recommends opting for a round mirror instead of a harsh, square one. Round mirrors bring a gentle flow, counterbalancing the sharp angles in a minimalist bathroom. Ruff suggests choosing a round mirror with a beautiful finish like burl wood or brightly colored lacquer for a carefully curated look.
Natural Materials:
Andrea Goldman emphasizes the importance of incorporating natural materials and organic accents like plants, wicker, and jute in minimalist bathrooms. These elements add warmth and vitality to counteract the coolness of sharp edges. If space is limited, consider using sconces with wicker or rattan shades, a bamboo roller shade, or textured wall art such as flat woven baskets or juju hats.
Large Scale Windows:
Instead of disrupting clean lines with art, Patrick Cunningham suggests installing large-scale windows to bring natural beauty and light into a minimalist bathroom. These windows frame the outdoors like living art and fill the space with natural light, transforming its energy. For added interest, consider blocked or paned glass, or even stained glass windows for a unique touch.
Full Tile Walls:
A bold tile backsplash behind a vanity can add visual interest without compromising minimalist design principles. Experiment with different tile choices, such as tiny mosaic tiles in an ombre palette or vertically stacked subway tiles in contrasting hues, to create a striking focal point.
Seamless Sink:
To maintain a minimalist flow, avoid introducing too many materials. A seamless sink is a sleek choice that complements minimalist aesthetics without overwhelming the space.
“Having too many interruptions and breaks creates a less streamlined and more disconnected feel in the space,” according to Goldman. When planning your bathroom design, consider areas where materials can be shared, such as extending wall tiles onto the floor or using the same material for both the sinktop and sink basin.
Goldman recommends the elegance of integrated stone sinks, where the countertop seamlessly transitions into the sink. This design choice results in a unified and effortless look for the entire vanity.
Arches are highlighted by McCoy Design Studio as an architectural element that can add character to a minimalist space while keeping clutter away. Arches create a visually appealing vaulted effect, drawing the eye upward and infusing a hint of drama while maintaining an air of sophistication.
If a full renovation to incorporate arched doorways is not feasible, consider incorporating the beauty of arches affordably with items such as arched mirrors or medicine cabinets.
Andrea Goldman Interiors emphasizes the role of decorative lighting in adding personality to a minimalist bathroom without overwhelming the space. Globe sconces, cylindrical sconces, or LED rod sconces are suggested as options to infuse style and uniqueness without appearing overly ornate.
Goldman stresses that minimalism is about striking a balance between individuality and restraint, with the right lighting fixture serving as the perfect element to achieve this harmony.
