Making the most of compact bathrooms in Melbourne homes
Across Melbourne, especially in older suburbs like Surrey Hills, Hawthorn, Box Hill, and Kew, small bathrooms are the norm. They were built decades ago, when bathrooms were seen as purely functional rooms — not the stylish, spa-like retreats many homeowners want today.
The problem? These compact bathrooms can feel cramped, outdated, and hard to use.
The good news is that with clever design and professional renovation, even the tiniest bathroom can feel bigger, brighter, and far more practical.
As a renovation builder working in Melbourne for more than 15 years, I’ve transformed countless small bathrooms. Below are 7 proven space-saving ideas that really work.
1. Wall-Hung Vanities for More Floor Space
A wall-hung vanity (also called a floating vanity) opens up the floor area, making the bathroom look bigger. Instead of a bulky cabinet that sits on the floor, you get storage plus the illusion of more space.
Pro Tip: Pair it with a mirrored shaving cabinet. You’ll get double the storage without cluttering the room.
2. Sliding or Pocket Doors Instead of Swing Doors
A hinged door can take up half the bathroom just to open. Replacing it with a sliding barn door or a pocket door instantly frees up space.
This is especially effective in units, apartments, and narrow Melbourne townhouses, where every centimetre counts.
3. Large Tiles & Light Colours for an Open Feel
Small tiles create lots of grout lines, which can make a space feel busier. Using large-format tiles reduces that visual clutter and makes the room appear bigger.
Pair this with light, neutral colours (think whites, greys, and soft beiges) to reflect light and keep the room airy.
Pro Tip: If you want warmth, add timber-look cabinetry or shelving — you’ll get contrast without shrinking the space visually.
4. Recessed Niches for Hidden Storage
Built-in wall niches are one of my favourite tricks. Instead of bulky shelves or caddies sticking out, niches are recessed into the wall — usually in the shower or above the vanity.
They’re perfect for keeping essentials like shampoo, soap, and even small décor items handy while saving valuable elbow room.
5. Frameless Glass Shower Screens
Frameless glass creates a seamless look that lets your eye travel across the room. By contrast, bulky framed or frosted screens divide the space and make it feel even smaller.
For ultra-compact bathrooms, a walk-in shower with a single glass panel can create a sense of openness while still keeping water contained.
6. Combine the Shower and Bath
Some families still need a bath, but in small bathrooms, having both a separate shower and bath just isn’t practical.
A modern shower-over-bath setup solves this. With the right tiling and a frameless glass screen, it can look sleek and save a huge amount of space.
7. Rethink the Layout Entirely
Sometimes the best solution is not just changing fixtures but reworking the whole layout. Moving the toilet, flipping the vanity position, or adjusting the shower location can transform how the room feels.
This is often the difference between a bathroom that “just fits” and one that feels spacious and functional.
Key Things to Keep in Mind for Small Bathrooms
- Storage must be planned early. Tall cupboards, mirrored cabinets, and deep vanity drawers are more valuable than extra décor.
- Ventilation is critical. Small bathrooms are more prone to condensation and mould. Always plan for a good exhaust fan or window ventilation.
- Lighting matters. Layered lighting (ceiling, task, and accent) can make a small bathroom feel brighter and more inviting.
- Don’t cut corners on waterproofing. In small bathrooms, water spreads faster — poor waterproofing can lead to expensive repairs.
FAQs About Small Bathroom Renovations in Melbourne
Q1: How much does it cost to renovate a small bathroom in Melbourne?
* A refresh (tiles, vanity, fittings): $12k–$18k
* A reconfigure (new layout, waterproofing, tiling): $19k–$28k
* A full premium renovation: $29k+
Q2: How long does a small bathroom renovation take?
Usually 2–3 weeks, depending on layout changes, tiling complexity, and materials chosen.
Q3: Do I need council approval or a permit?
For most bathroom renovations in Melbourne, you don’t need council approval unless you’re extending or making structural changes. You do, however, need licensed waterproofing and plumbing compliance certificates.
Q4: What’s the most important thing in a small bathroom renovation?
Storage and layout. You can always change fittings and colours later, but getting the layout and storage right at the start makes the biggest difference.
Q5: Can a small bathroom still feel luxurious?
Absolutely. With the right tiles, lighting, and fixtures, even a compact bathroom can feel high-end. Many Melbourne homeowners are surprised at how much can be achieved in a small footprint.
Final Thoughts
Renovating a small bathroom in Melbourne isn’t about squeezing in more things — it’s about smart design, practical storage, and making every inch count.
If you plan carefully and work with someone experienced, you can turn a cramped, outdated bathroom into a space that’s modern, functional, and a pleasure to use.