18 Long and Narrow Bathroom Ideas – Space-Saving Design Tips

Designing a long and narrow bathroom can be a tricky balancing act. These spaces require thoughtful planning to avoid feeling cramped while maximizing functionality and style. 

The good news? With the right design tricks, even the slimmest of layouts can be transformed into a stunning, practical space. 

This article will share 18 creative ideas to help you elevate your long and narrow bathroom’s design while making the most of every square inch. 

With these principles in mind, let’s explore the 18 ideas that will take your bathroom from cramped to chic. 

18 Long and Narrow Bathroom Ideas 

1. Add Sliding Pocket Doors 

Replace traditional swing doors with sliding pocket doors to free up valuable floor space and improve functionality. 

These doors tuck neatly into the wall when opened, eliminating the need for clearance space that traditional doors require. 

This makes them ideal for smaller bathrooms, as the additional room can be used for extra storage fixtures, a laundry basket, or decorative elements to elevate the aesthetic of the space. 

2. Install a Walk-In Shower 

A walk-in shower with frameless glass doors not only looks sleek but also opens up the visual space in your bathroom, creating a more modern and spacious feel. 

Position the shower at one end of the room to achieve an uncluttered, streamlined layout. 

Opt for glass panels to allow light to flow freely through the entire space, and consider adding a rain showerhead or built-in seating to enhance comfort and luxury. 

3. Use Vertical Storage 

When floor space is limited, think tall, not wide! Incorporate recessed shelves, wall-mounted cabinets, or tall linen closets to make use of vertical space. 

These storage solutions can hold towels, toiletries, and decorative items without encroaching on walking space. 

For a cohesive look, match the shelves or cabinets with your bathroom’s color scheme, and use baskets or bins to keep items neatly organized. 

4. Choose a Floating Vanity 

Floating vanities give the illusion of a larger floor area by exposing more of the floor beneath them, making the room feel less crowded. 

These vanities are available in various styles and finishes, allowing you to customize the look to suit your bathroom. 

For additional functionality, place storage baskets or bins underneath to store essentials like toiletries, cleaning supplies, or even extra toilet paper, while keeping the space visually clean and clutter-free. 

5. Incorporate Long, Narrow Tiles 

Using long tiles or horizontal patterns can visually elongate the bathroom, creating an optical illusion of a wider room. 

This technique works especially well in narrow spaces, making them appear more open and inviting. 

Pair these tiles with light, neutral tones like white, beige, or soft gray to maximize the airy look and reflect light around the room. To add a touch of interest, consider subtle textures or a contrasting grout for added depth. 

6. Utilize Recessed Shelves 

Recessed shelves are a brilliant way to save space while incorporating stylish, built-in storage options. 

They can be installed in the shower to hold shampoo, soap, and other essentials or placed above the sink for easy access to daily-use items like toothpaste or skincare products. 

To make recessed shelves stand out, line them with decorative tiles or add LED lighting for a polished finish that complements the rest of the bathroom design. 

7. Focus on Natural Light 

Natural light can work wonders in making a small bathroom feel larger and more inviting. Add windows, skylights, or glass panels where possible to flood the space with light. 

If privacy is a concern, frosted or textured glass can be a great alternative that balances light and privacy. 

Even if windows aren’t an option, consider using large mirrors to reflect light and brighten the space, or add light-colored curtains or blinds that won’t block sunlight. 

8. Add a Statement Wall 

Draw the eye and create a focal point in your bathroom by adding a statement wall with bold accent tiles, wallpaper, or textured materials. 

Whether it’s a vibrant color, an intricate pattern, or a unique material like wood or stone, a statement wall at the far end of the room directs attention and distracts from the narrowness of the space. 

Pair the statement wall with complementary elements like matching towels, rugs, or decor to tie the look together seamlessly.

9. Pick a Slim Vanity  

A slimline vanity is the perfect solution for narrow bathrooms, offering a compact design that maximizes functionality without overwhelming the space. 

It provides just enough counter and storage space for your essentials while maintaining a clean, streamlined look. 

Pair it with a large mirror to reflect natural and artificial light, making the room feel brighter and more spacious. Consider vanities with built-in drawers for added organization. 

10. Incorporate a Freestanding Tub 

If your bathroom has enough length, a freestanding tub placed at one end creates a luxurious, spa-like atmosphere. 

Opt for a slim or modern tub design that adds elegance without taking up too much room. 

You can enhance the look by surrounding it with subtle accent tiles or adding a freestanding faucet for an extra touch of sophistication. 

11. Use Frameless Glass Panels 

Frameless glass shower enclosures are a fantastic way to make a narrow bathroom feel larger and more open. 

By allowing light to travel uninterrupted through the space, they remove visual barriers and create a seamless, cohesive look. 

These panels are great for showcasing tiled shower walls and are easy to clean, adding both style and practicality. 

12. Opt for Hidden Storage 

Hidden storage solutions keep clutter at bay while maintaining a sleek appearance. Consider mirrored cabinets recessed into the wall, built-in drawers under the vanity, or storage niches in the shower area. 

These clever storage ideas are perfect for organizing toiletries, towels, and other bathroom essentials without taking up extra space or creating visual distractions. 

13. Create Zoning with Flooring 

Zoning your bathroom with different flooring materials is a smart way to break up the space visually while maintaining functionality. 

Use hardwood or laminate flooring near the vanity to add warmth and contrast, and opt for durable, water-resistant tiles in the shower or tub area. This technique helps define different areas within the room and adds a designer touch. 

14. Add Statement Lighting 

Statement lighting can instantly elevate your narrow bathroom. Pendant lights, oversized fixtures, or stylish wall sconces not only provide ample illumination but also draw the eye upward, emphasizing the height of the room. 

For an even better effect, choose lighting with metallic or reflective finishes to bounce light around the space. 

15. Install a Double Vanity 

If your bathroom is long enough, a double vanity is a practical and stylish choice for shared spaces. 

Install it along one wall to save space while providing plenty of counter and storage space for two people. 

Look for vanities with deep drawers or cabinets to keep items organized, and pair them with two mirrors or a single oversized mirror for a polished, functional design. 

16. Go with Floor-to-Ceiling Mirrors 

Mirrors are a designer’s secret weapon in narrow bathrooms. A floor-to-ceiling mirror creates the illusion of a wider, taller space by reflecting light and adding depth. 

Place it strategically opposite a window or light source to amplify the effect, and choose a sleek, frameless design to maintain a minimalist, modern vibe. 

17. Use Floating Shelves 

Floating shelves are a versatile storage solution that works perfectly in narrow bathrooms. Install them in typically unused spaces, such as above the toilet, next to the mirror, or behind the door. 

Use them to store towels, toiletries, or decorative items like plants or candles. Their minimal design keeps the space open and avoids a bulky, cluttered appearance. 

18. Experiment with Bold Tiles 

Bold, patterned tiles are a great way to distract from the narrow shape of the bathroom and add personality to the space. 

Use them on the floor for an eye-catching foundation or create an accent wall behind the vanity, shower, or tub. 

Choose colors and patterns that suit your style, and pair them with neutral elements to keep the design balanced and cohesive.

FAQs

Final Words  

With the right design strategies, even the most challenging long and narrow bathrooms can be transformed into functional and inviting spaces. 

From clever storage solutions to eye-catching design elements, these ideas prove that size doesn’t have to limit style. 

Are you planning your own bathroom makeover but don’t know where to start? Our affordable design consultants are here to help. Get in touch today and transform your bathroom with expert advice tailored to your needs.