In San Diego, where square footage often comes at a premium, small bathrooms are common—especially in older homes and beachside properties. Whether you're in a bungalow in North Park, a townhouse in Mission Valley, or a family home in Scripps Ranch, making the most of your bathroom space is key to both comfort and long-term home value.
1. Light Colors and Bright Lighting
Choosing light-colored walls and accessories is more than just a visual choice—it creates an illusion of openness, especially when paired with bright, evenly distributed lighting.
In San Diego homes, particularly in coastal areas like Ocean Beach or Point Loma, maximizing natural light is essential due to smaller window sizes or older layouts. Our team often recommends combining soft neutrals with skylights or backlit mirrors to create a fresh, airy feel that looks and feels twice the size.
2. Large Mirrors
Strategically placed large mirrors serve a dual purpose. Beyond reflecting light to create the illusion of more space, they also introduce an elegant touch to your bathroom. Consider oversized or full-length mirrors for maximum impact.
3. Clear Glass Shower Enclosures
Opt for clear glass shower enclosures to remove visual barriers. This seamless look enhances the perception of a more expansive area. It not only makes the bathroom feel larger but also contributes to an open and inviting atmosphere.
4. Wall-Mounted Storage
Freeing up floor space is a game-changer in a small bathroom. Wall-mounted storage solutions, such as floating shelves or cabinets, not only keep the space organized but also maintain a sense of openness by keeping the floor visible.
5. Use Vertical Space
Maximize the use of vertical space by installing tall cabinets and shelving. This draws the eye upward, creating a sense of height and spaciousness. This is especially effective in smaller bathrooms, making them feel more expansive. This is especially effective in compact San Diego bathrooms, like those found in older homes around University Heights or Normal Heights.
6. Compact Fixtures
Choosing space-efficient fixtures—such as wall-mounted faucets, toilets, or pedestal sinks—is crucial in a small bathroom. These streamlined choices reduce visual clutter and create a more organized, open layout. We often install wall-mounted fixtures in tight powder rooms across downtown condos and beachside homes.
7. Strategic Tile Patterns
Incorporate large-format tiles to minimize grout lines and create a cleaner, more expansive look. Experiment with diagonal or herringbone patterns to play with perception and add a touch of visual interest.
8. Consistent Flooring
Extend the same flooring throughout the bathroom without interruptions. A continuous floor visually expands the space by eliminating dividing lines, resulting in a more cohesive and spacious feel.
9. Hidden Storage
Concealing storage areas behind mirrors or within built-in cabinets enhances aesthetics while reducing visible clutter. This contributes significantly to the perception of a larger and more organized space.
10. Optical Illusions
Experiment with visual tricks, such as a feature wall or captivating focal point. Thoughtfully chosen elements divert attention and add a sense of depth, making your small bathroom remodel a creative and visually impactful endeavor.
🛠️ Real Example: Small Bathroom Remodel in Allied Gardens
We recently completed a small bathroom remodel in the Allied Gardens neighborhood of San Diego. This space went from dull and outdated to bright, modern, and full of charm. To maximize functionality without sacrificing style, here's what we did:
✅ Replaced the old, cramped vanity with a custom green cabinet to add storage and character
🪞 Installed a large mirror to reflect light and visually open up the space
🚰 Added a wall-mounted faucet to free up counter space and accommodate a larger sink
🧱 Chose patterned tile flooring for a bold yet timeless design
🚿 Replaced the dated shower/tub combo (which had red horizontal accent stripes) with subtle multi-toned white subway tile up to the ceiling to make the room feel taller and brighter
Swipe through the slider below to see the full transformation—from the original dated layout to a modern, space-smart bathroom designed by our San Diego remodel team.
🎥 Video Tour: See the Remodel in Action
Want to see how this transformation came together? Watch our quick video tour of this Allied Gardens bathroom remodel below:
👇 Follow us on Instagram @integrityhomesd for more behind-the-scenes tours, before-and-afters, and remodeling inspiration from projects across San Diego!
Conclusion: Maximize Space: 10 Small Bathroom Remodel Tips
Remodeling a small bathroom is a creative challenge that, when approached strategically, yields remarkable results. Incorporate these expert tips to maximize space and create a stylish, comfortable retreat that defies its size. Whether through light colors, clever storage, or optical illusions, each element plays a role in transforming your small bathroom into a spacious haven.
Ready to Start Your Home Remodel Project?
At Integrity Home Improvements, we help San Diego homeowners transform their homes into spaces they truly love. Our experienced team understands the importance of a well-designed and functional space, and we work closely with you to bring your vision to life. Learn more about our San Diego home remodeling services and how we can help you create a space that fits your lifestyle.
Book a free appointment by clicking below or calling us at 858-751-0800. Let us show you how a remodel can make a world of difference in your home.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the average cost of a small bathroom remodel in San Diego?
A: Most San Diego bathroom remodels for compact spaces start around $15,000–$25,000 depending on the layout, finishes, and custom features.
Q: How long does a small bathroom remodel take?
A: At Integrity Home Improvements, most small bathroom renovations are completed in 3–5 weeks, depending on material availability and the scope of work.
Q: Can you remodel bathrooms in older San Diego homes?
A: Absolutely! We specialize in remodeling bathrooms in older homes throughout neighborhoods like La Mesa, North Park, and Allied Gardens—handling everything from layout redesigns to modern plumbing upgrades.
To see photos of our latest San Diego bathroom remodels, CLICK HERE.
👤 About the Author
Written by Jacob, Design and Marketing Manager at Integrity Home Improvements in San Diego. Jacob collaborates closely with clients and the remodeling team to bring practical design ideas to life and help homeowners get the most value out of their space.