Small Bathroom Renovation Ideas

Living in Hong Kong means making the most of every square foot. Your bathroom may be compact, but that doesn't mean it can't feel like a luxury retreat. After 28 years of renovating bathrooms across Hong Kong, I've seen firsthand how smart design choices can transform even the smallest spaces into stunning, functional sanctuaries.

Whether you're renovating a 30-square-foot guest bathroom or upgrading your master ensuite, this guide will show you how to maximize space while incorporating the luxury features you deserve. These aren't just theoretical ideas—they're proven solutions I've implemented in hundreds of Hong Kong homes.

A well-designed small bathroom can rival any luxury hotel suite

The Golden Rules of Small Bathroom Design

Before we dive into specific features, let's establish the fundamental principles that make small bathrooms work:

Luxury Feature #1: The Walk-In Shower

Nothing transforms a small bathroom quite like replacing a traditional bathtub with a walk-in shower. In Hong Kong's humid climate, a well-designed walk-in shower is not just a luxury—it's practical, hygienic, and space-saving.

Frameless glass walk-in shower creates an open, airy feel

Key Design Elements:

• Frameless Glass Panels: These create visual continuity and let light flow through the entire space. A fixed glass panel (rather than a door) works perfectly in tight spaces.
• Linear Drains: These sleek drains sit flush with the floor, allowing for a seamless transition and easier cleaning. They're especially popular in modern Hong Kong renovations.
• Rainfall Showerheads: Mounted directly overhead, these add a spa-like luxury without taking up wall space. Combine with a handheld option for flexibility.
• Built-in Niches: Recessed shelving for toiletries keeps surfaces clear and avoids the clutter of freestanding caddies.

Luxury Feature #2: Floating Vanities

A floating (wall-mounted) vanity is one of the most impactful changes you can make in a small bathroom. By exposing the floor beneath, you create the illusion of more space while also making cleaning easier.

Floating vanities create breathing room in compact spaces

Why Floating Vanities Work:

• Visual Space: Seeing the floor continue under the vanity tricks the eye into perceiving a larger room.
• Under-Cabinet Lighting: LED strips beneath the vanity add ambient lighting and a premium feel.
• Easy Cleaning: No more awkward maneuvering around vanity legs—just sweep or mop straight through.
• Storage Options: Modern floating vanities offer drawers and compartments for all your essentials.

Sizing Your Vanity:

In Hong Kong's compact bathrooms, I typically recommend vanities between 600mm-900mm wide. Single basin designs work best for smaller spaces, while a double basin might be feasible in larger master bathrooms.

Luxury Feature #3: Statement Lighting & Mirrors

Lighting can make or break a bathroom design. In small spaces, the right lighting strategy creates depth, highlights features, and provides the functional illumination you need for daily routines.

Strategic lighting transforms the bathroom experience

Lighting Layers for Small Bathrooms:

Mirror Magic:

An oversized mirror is the single most effective way to make a small bathroom feel twice its size. Consider:

• A full-width mirror above the vanity extending to the ceiling
• Backlit mirrors with integrated LED lighting
• Anti-fog heating elements (essential in Hong Kong's humidity)
• Built-in magnification panels for grooming

Luxury Feature #4: Smart Storage Solutions

Clutter is the enemy of small spaces. Every Hong Kong bathroom I renovate includes thoughtful storage solutions that keep daily essentials accessible while maintaining clean sightlines.

Built-in storage keeps everything organized and accessible

Storage Ideas That Work:

• Recessed Medicine Cabinets: Built into the wall, these provide storage without protruding into the room. Behind-mirror cabinets are particularly effective.
• Shower Niches: Built-in shelving in the shower wall keeps bottles organized and off the floor.
• Tall Narrow Cabinets: Utilize the full height of the room with slim storage towers in otherwise wasted corners.
• Under-Sink Drawers: Maximise vanity storage with full-extension drawers and internal organizers.
• Heated Towel Rails: Wall-mounted rails serve double duty—storing towels while keeping them warm and dry.

Luxury Feature #5: Large-Format Tiles

Counter-intuitively, larger tiles often work better in small bathrooms than small tiles. Fewer grout lines create a cleaner, more expansive look.

Large-format tiles minimize visual interruptions

Tile Strategies for Small Spaces:

• Size Matters: 600x600mm or 600x1200mm tiles reduce grout lines and create visual continuity. Book-matched marble-look porcelain is particularly stunning.
• Floor-to-Ceiling: Tiling the full height of walls eliminates visual breaks and makes ceilings appear higher.
• Consistent Palette: Using the same tile on floors and walls creates a seamless, spa-like environment.
• Color Choice: Light, neutral tones reflect more light. Whites, soft grays, and natural stone colors work beautifully.
• Minimal Contrast Grout: Match grout color to tiles for an uninterrupted surface.

Luxury Feature #6: Premium Fixtures & Fittings

In a small bathroom, every element is on display. Quality fixtures not only function better—they become the design statement of the room.

Premium fixtures elevate the entire bathroom experience

Where to Invest:

• Tapware: Quality taps in brushed nickel, matte black, or brushed gold become sculptural elements. Brands like Grohe, Hansgrohe, and Kohler offer both style and reliability.
• Showerheads: A premium rainfall shower or multi-function handset transforms the daily shower into a spa experience.
• Toilet: Wall-hung toilets save floor space and make cleaning easier. Consider smart toilets with bidet functions and heated seats.
• Heated Towel Rail: A luxury that's particularly appreciated in Hong Kong's cooler months.
• Accessories: Coordinated accessories (towel bars, robe hooks, toilet roll holders) in matching finishes complete the look.

Planning Your Small Bathroom Renovation

A successful small bathroom renovation requires careful planning. Here's my recommended approach:

Step 1: Assess Your Space

Measure everything. Note window positions, plumbing locations, and structural elements. In Hong Kong buildings, moving plumbing can be expensive and sometimes impossible—work with your existing layout where practical.

Step 2: Define Your Priorities

Do you need a bath or can you switch to a shower? How much storage is essential? What's your must-have luxury feature? Being clear about priorities helps allocate budget effectively.

Step 3: Consider Waterproofing

Hong Kong's humidity demands excellent waterproofing. This is not the place to cut corners—proper membrane installation prevents costly problems down the track.

Step 4: Plan for Ventilation

Good ventilation is critical for preventing mold and maintaining your renovation. Consider upgrading exhaust fans or adding mechanical ventilation if needed.

Step 5: Work with Professionals

Complex renovations involving plumbing, electrical, and waterproofing require experienced tradespeople. Cutting corners here often costs more in the long run.

Budget Considerations

Small bathroom renovations in Hong Kong typically range from HK$80,000 for a basic refresh to HK$250,000+ for a full luxury renovation. Key cost factors include:

• Extent of plumbing changes
• Quality of tiles and fixtures selected
• Custom cabinetry vs. standard units
• Waterproofing scope
• Building age and accessibility

The good news is that in a small bathroom, you can afford to splurge on premium materials without breaking the bank—you simply need less of everything.

Final Thoughts

A small bathroom doesn't mean compromising on style or functionality. With thoughtful design, quality materials, and expert installation, even the most compact Hong Kong bathroom can become a luxurious daily retreat.

The key is working with someone who understands both the constraints and possibilities of small spaces. After nearly three decades of bathroom renovations across Hong Kong, I've learned that the best solutions often come from creative problem-solving rather than unlimited budgets.

Have questions about your bathroom renovation project? I'm always happy to discuss ideas and possibilities. Reach out via WhatsApp or email, and let's explore what's possible in your space.