Six ways to turn your dark bathroom into a light-filled sanctuary

Dreaming up a new bathroom but faced with a small, dark or airless space?

Don’t despair, says designer Camilla Molders. “A beautiful bathroom is all about smart storage, well-positioned lighting, and attention to detail,” she says. “It needn’t be a dead, hopeless space.”

By following these six steps, your bathroom will feel light and bright in no time.

Light

The first element to address is functional lighting. “Luckily, LED technology makes it easy to fake natural light,” says Molders. “Use in smart ways like adding a recessed strip in the ceiling and within cabinetry.” Or choose downlights, suggests designer Sarah Elshaug.

“Just one or two down the central spine of the room is enough, but opt for LED on the cooler side of the spectrum, rather than warmer bulbs that cast an orange glow.” Place LED lights on either side of the vanity mirror for effective task lighting and as stylish punctuation points.

“Or add a luxe drop pendant to one side that doesn’t steal space, and LED overhead for doing makeup,” she says. Choose a ceramic or glass pendant that withstands moisture and is easily cleaned. “I like Mud Australia for ceramic dome styles and coloured orb lights by Melbourne glass maker Mark Douglass,” she says. 

Space

Maximise layout for easy flow and movement. Place the shower behind a simple glass screen, adding a niche inside instead of shelves. “It looks stylish, takes up zero space, and is practical too,” Elshaug says.

“Make sure it’s set at elbow height and is tall enough to house extra-large bottles of shampoo.” Avoid baskets or floor storage, and create extra space with a wall-mounted toilet or one with a concealed cistern.

Vanity

“My focal point in a smaller bathroom is always the vanity,” admits Elshaug. “It should be stylish yet provide clever storage solutions.” Select a slim, modern profile with a deep under shelf drawer.  Above, add a mirrored cabinet that is tucked away and recessed into the wall.

“Accessorise your vanity with simple tap hardware and materials and finishes that flow together with ease,” she adds. “A cohesive look makes a space appear instantly larger.”  

Colour and texture

While an all-white colour scheme is the traditional go-to for a small room, Elshaug suggests adding pale shades to your palette. “White is a good base, but add neutral shades, like soft greys, for an airy feel.”

Streamline your layout with similar-sized, all-over tiling that flows from the floor and up the wall. “Add a pop of colour using a feature tile over the vanity and in the shower niche,” she suggests. “Little details often provide the most impact.” Molders agrees: “Adding colour to a simple or neutral palette feels less clinical.”

Reflection

Mirrored cabinetry adds a sleek, polished finish to a small room. Versatile for stowing daily essentials, it’s also effective for bouncing light around and creating a feeling of openness. Look for a round or angled style, or choose a long, horizontal shape that elongates a small wall.

“Whatever the shape, make sure it’s at a scale that gives you plenty to view,” adds Elshaug.  “Hang a full-length mirror on the back of the bathroom door too.” 

Airflow

A skylight can prove transformative in a windowless room, drawing in natural light that is both illuminating and flattering.  “Look for models that include a panel that can be opened for airflow, too,” suggests Elshaug. Choose a thin line style that sits discreetly and to scale within a restricted ceiling space. Install an exhaust fan nearby to combat steam and prevent mould.

“For maximum effect, place over or near the shower,” she says.  “Make sure it’s connected separately to the light, so it can be switched off when not required.”