Small 5×8 Bathrooms Can Look GREAT!

The average full bathroom size in the United States measures 5 feet by 8 feet. A bathroom that is 40 square feet is an adequate size to contain the necessary amenities of the sink, shower or shower-tub combo, and a toilet. Bathroom spaces that are smaller in size make it difficult to accommodate two people at the same time. While 40 square feet may not sound like a lot of room, by planning your space wisely, you can maximize it and give everyone ample room to do what they need to do.

Shower or shower-tub combo size and placement

The shower or shower-tub combo area is the largest use of space in a bathroom, so it is wise to begin your remodeling plans with it. Depending on your preferences, you can plan for a more luxurious walk-in shower, or go with a shower-tub combo. A 5 x 8 bathroom in McKinney, TX can comfortably accommodate either option, though there won’t be much space to spare. Regardless of where your bathroom door is located, you will need to space to swing your shower door outward or to exit the shower-tub combo in the same direction. In smaller bathrooms, a sliding door provides the most room. Swinging or pivot shower doors require a corner shower or are ideal for bathrooms that are larger. Your shower door glass can be clear, frosted, or patterned. Sleek, frameless shower doors can visually expand the space by streamlining its look of it.

Sink and toilet placement

You won’t want your toilet to be the first thing you see when you enter your bathroom, but you will want a clear flow of traffic through your bathroom to it.  It is typically best to put your sink and toilet side by side on the same long wall, even if the toilet area is hidden in a water closet or half wall. Floating vanities, wall-mounted sinks, and wall-hung toilets typically make spaces look larger. These can also maximize remaining space for storage. Wall niches above the toilet and in the shower provide additional storage space.

Bathroom vanity sizing

To provide more storage options, add a large vanity with multiple drawers with an under-mount sink. Before you can determine the proper vanity size for your space, you have to determine just how much room you have to work with. It’s important to make careful measurements of the area designated for the vanity, including width, depth, and height. The width of the area will help you determine if you will be able to fit a single or double vanity in the layout. (Also, it’s important to note that the vanity countertop usually extends an extra ½ inch to 1 inch on each side of the vanity itself.) If your space can accommodate a double vanity, you will need to make sure it is plumbed for one. If it is not, you will need to call a plumber to provide the necessary hook-ups to accommodate the additional sink.

Bathroom lighting

Good lighting is a requirement for a 5 x 8 bathroom in Frisco, TX to avoid a dark or closet-like feel. Overhead lighting, recessed lighting, wall sconces, and strip-style fixtures located on either side of the mirror will brighten the space. A well-lit space also feels larger.

5 x 8 bathroom features that can impact your budget

Even in small bathrooms with limited options, there are often creative ways to rework a space and add more functionality and design to a previously cramped and dated bathroom. Certain amenities and features can impact your budget when you are revamping your space, however. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Bathtub size and style have an impact on the cost. Also, free-standing tubs can incur additional plumbing costs.
• Cabinets and vanities: custom cabinets are the most expensive, while stock vanity units are the most economical. Size, top style, cabinetry, and material used will impact the overall price of a vanity unit.
• The countertop material is a significant line item in bathroom remodeling costs, especially natural stone.
• Sinks and fixtures: costs will vary according to manufacturer, material, and style.
• Wall and floor tile: porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone are popular options, though natural stone usually costs more to install because it is difficult to cut and place. However, from natural stone and classic ceramic to glass and engineered stone, there is a huge variety of options, so you are likely to find something that fits the look you want within your budget.