Small Bathroom 5x8 Remodel Concepts
Renovating a tiny 5x8 foot bathroom can be a challenging endeavor, but with careful planning and creative design techniques, even the most compact space can be completely transformed.
From space-saving sinks and showers to lighting arrangements that make the room appear larger, these savvy remodeling ideas can help maximize every inch and unlock the full potential of 5x8 bathrooms.
Measuring and Planning Small 5x8 Bathroom Layout
The first step in any 5x8 bathroom remodel is careful measurement and planning. With only 40 square feet to work with, every inch matters.
Consider the age and condition of your home. In older houses with plaster walls, dimensions can be irregular, so re-measure even if you have plans. Carefully plot out the desired locations for key fixtures like toilets, showers, sinks, and door swing space. Map locations of plumbing and electrical as well.
Analyze your existing layout and usage patterns. Decide which elements you want to change and which to keep. This will guide remodeling efforts, allowing you to target specific improvements while working within constraints.
Choosing Floor Plans for a Narrow 5x8 Bath Remodel
In a 5x8 bathroom, thoughtful floor plans are essential to prevent a cramped, awkward layout. There are several approaches to arranging fixtures that can optimize the narrow space.
A toilet, sink, and tub or shower alcove are necessities. Carefully weigh different placements given available plumbing locations. Corner showers and tubs conserve floor space. Floating vanities with thin legs or wall-hung sinks save room underneath. An outward-swinging door can free up a few extra inches.
If the room is longer than wider, a single-file plan may work best, with sink and toilet aligned on one wall and the tub/shower on the opposite side. Wider but shorter baths can be arranged in zones, such as putting the toilet and sink area up front with the tub/shower zone in the back half of the room.
Selecting Fixtures and Features for a 5x8 Bathroom
Along with layout, choosing the right assortment of fixtures and features is key for 5x8 bathroom remodels. Compact, streamlined fixtures not only save space but contribute to an airier, less confined feel.
Deciding on Necessary Fixtures for a Compact 5x8 Bathroom Remodel
For necessary fixtures like toilets, sinks, showers and tubs, scaled-down choices make sense. Look for toilets under 30 inches wide and sinks with narrow rectangular profiles or compact pedestal bases. For tubs, a basic 60-inch model fits most 5x8 baths. Showers can be floor-to-ceiling stall units on one wall. Corner shower enclosures also work well.
When choosing fixtures, also consider additional features like comfort height toilets, vessel sinks for style, rainfall showerheads for an indulgent soak, and jetted or soaking tubs for relaxation. Hunt for pieces suited for small spaces but with all the desired features.
Picking Stylish Features to Enhance a Petite 5x8 Bathroom
Beyond essential fixtures, decorative flourishes like lighting, mirrors, storage furniture and material finishes give personality to a 5x8 bathroom remodel.
For lighting, recessed ceiling fixtures, horizontal vanity strip lighting or stylish wall sconces open up sightlines in the compact room. Mirror installation also makes spaces appear larger--try framing out the whole back wall or adding a large mirror above the sink.
Creative shelving and cabinetry carve out much-needed storage nooks. Floating shelves, corner floor cabinets, drawer stacks for sink skirts, and medicine cabinets with mirrors are great options. Make sure choices align with the room's overall aesthetic through colors, finishes and hardware.
Creative Storage Solutions for a Small 5-Foot by 8-Foot Bathroom
Finding storage space is an ongoing quest in 5x8 bathroom remodels. When dealing with an ultra-compact room, creative solutions make all the difference.
Built-in cabinets with shelves and drawers are a first go-to, allowing you to stash all manner of toiletries, cosmetics and cleaning items. Medicine cabinets with mirrors also serve double storage duty. Don't neglect vertical real estate either. Wall-mounted cabinets or shelving above the toilet maximize every inch.
Also look to unused spaces beneath and behind fixtures. A sink skirt lined with drawers or open shelving creates storage along the floor. Wall niches fitted with shelves around plumbing lines are great for tucking away extra toilet paper. Even the area behind a door can become a prime storage spot with the addition of some hooks.
Design Techniques to Visually Enlarge a 5x8 Bathroom Space
While physical dimensions of a 5x8 bathroom can't be expanded, a few simple design adjustments can help the petite space appear more spacious and expansive.
Using Light Colors and Patterns Strategically in 5x8 Bathroom
Color choices and surface patterns hugely impact spatial perception. Sticking to all light wall colors keeps things airy. However, bathrooms need some visual points of interest. Use patterns sparingly on floor tile or with one colored wall to define a shower zone without overwhelming.
Also, consider shower tile or accent walls in reflective finishes. Glossy marble or metallic tile add depth and dimension without darkening the room. Carefully chosen colors and patterns make 5x8 bathrooms feel more expansive.
Installing Mirrors and Lighting to Brighten and Expand a 5x8 Bathroom
Proper lighting design and strategic mirror placement also influence how large a 5x8 bathroom appears. Use lighting to eliminate dark corners or harsh shadows. Add mirrors to key areas, like above the sink or behind the toilet, to give the illusion of added space.
For lighting fixtures, consider adding windows, skylights or adjustable recessed lights. Wall sconces on dimmers lend flexibility for tasks or ambience. Mirrors maximize brightness from installed lighting while reflecting back the room's dimensions. Carefully orchestrated lighting and mirrors can make diminutive 5x8 bathrooms feel grand.
Cost-Effective Updates for 5x8 Bathroom Remodels
Bathroom remodels run the monetary gamut from simple DIY projects to full custom overhauls. With some savvy planning, 5x8 bath remodels can stick to reasonable budgets.
Cosmetic updates like new wall tile or fixtures often provide suitable facelifts. Strategic partial renovations like redoing the shower area also keep costs contained. Comparison shop online for fixtures or accessories to find deals. Purchase materials from home improvement warehouse stores for self-installation. The scale of 5x8 bathrooms lends well to affordable remodeling.
However, don't sacrifice quality solely for budget. Splurge on durable shower enclosures with watertight pans, for instance. Also invest in high-performing fans improving ventilation issues that small bathrooms often have. Thoughtful remodeling choices balance penny-pinching and functionality.
Maintaining Functionality in a 5-Foot by 8-Foot Bathroom Layout
With limited dimensions to work within, retaining functionality should be a top concern when remodeling 5x8 bathrooms. Key focal points include storage, fixtures suited for compact spaces and ample lighting.
Strategically placed shelving, medicine cabinets and built-in drawers maintain spaces for stowing everyday essentials. Carefully arranged toilet, sink and tub/shower fittings ensure comfortable navigating and access. Make sure lighting accommodates tasks like shaving and makeup application at the mirror.
Also account for ventilation requirements in the floor plans. Wet, humid conditions quickly develop in enclosed 5x8 bathrooms, making fans or windows critical for air circulation and moisture control.
Analyze how you use the existing bathroom to accommodate those needs in the redesign. With smart functional planning, 5x8 bathrooms can work efficiently.