Small bathrooms can be a real challenge, especially in Perth’s older homes and townhouses, where space is limited. But with clever design and the right features, a walk-in shower can completely transform your bathroom into a stylish, practical sanctuary that feels much larger than it actually is. Whether you’re renovating to increase your home’s value or simply want a fresher, more functional space that suits your lifestyle, choosing renovation solutions tailored specifically to Western Australian homes and trends can make all the difference.
Embrace open showers for a spacious feel
Open or doorless showers are one of the best ways to create a sense of openness in a small bathroom. By removing shower doors or full enclosures, you eliminate visual barriers that break up the room, allowing your eye to travel freely and giving the impression of a larger, uninterrupted space. This minimalist, seamless design is also very much in line with the indoor-outdoor living style popular in Perth and across WA, helping your bathroom feel more connected to the rest of your home.
Open showers are particularly suited to WA’s warm climate, making it easier to keep your bathroom fresh and well-ventilated. Plus, they’re easier to clean without the need to worry about doors and tracks catching grime or mould. When combined with quality waterproofing and smart drainage, an open shower can be both beautiful and highly practical.
Use large tiles to minimise grout lines
Choosing the right tiles is a simple but impactful way to visually expand a small bathroom. Large-format tiles, both on the walls and floors, reduce the number of grout lines. Fewer grout lines mean less visual clutter, creating a smooth, continuous surface that appears more spacious and streamlined.
- In WA homes, where dust can be a concern, large tiles also make cleaning easier. Grout can often trap dirt and mildew, so minimising grout lines helps your bathroom stay cleaner for longer. Consider neutral tones or soft textures that complement your home’s natural aesthetic, such as stone-look porcelain or matte finishes, to keep the look fresh and timeless.
Consider a hobless shower design
Hobless (sometimes referred to as curbless or level-entry) showers eliminate the traditional step or ledge into the shower area, creating a flat, smooth transition from bathroom floor to shower floor. This design is a game-changer for small bathrooms, enhancing the sense of space and improving accessibility.
For families with young children, older adults, or anyone with mobility challenges, hobless showers make getting in and out safer and easier. They also contribute to a sleek, modern bathroom design — perfect for contemporary homes. When planning a hobless shower, proper drainage is key to preventing water spilling, so working with an experienced WA bathroom renovator ensures the right solutions are installed for your space and lifestyle.
A great example of this design is the level-entry shower area in our Nedlands Carrathurs project — a sleek, easy-access bathroom that shows how practical and modern this style can be in a real home.
Incorporate vertical storage solutions
In small bathrooms, every millimetre counts — so utilising vertical storage is essential. Instead of bulky floor cabinets, opt for tall, slim cupboards or open shelving that takes advantage of wall height without encroaching on limited floor space.
Moisture-resistant materials are especially important for bathroom storage to prevent damage over time. Consider floating shelves or recessed niches built into the shower wall to neatly store shampoos, soaps, and other essentials without cluttering the space. Clever storage keeps your bathroom tidy and functional while maintaining an open, airy feel.
Choose light colours to enhance brightness
Light colours are a simple and effective way to make your small bathroom feel brighter and more spacious. Whites, soft greys, and subtle pastels reflect both natural daylight and artificial lighting, bouncing light around the room to create an airy, fresh environment.
In Perth, where natural sunlight is plentiful, pairing light-coloured tiles and walls with natural materials like timber accents or stone can add warmth and texture without closing in the space. Using a consistent light colour palette throughout your bathroom visually expands the area and makes it feel calm and inviting — an important quality in busy households.
Install clear glass shower panels
Clear glass panels are a must-have feature in a small bathroom, aiming for a spacious look. Unlike frosted or textured glass, clear panels keep sightlines open across the room, allowing light to flow freely and making the whole space appear larger and more connected.
For a clean, contemporary feel, frameless or semi-frameless clear glass panels are ideal. They not only look sleek but are easier to maintain since there are fewer frames and seals where grime can build up. A good bathroom renovator can help you select and install the perfect glass panels to complement your bathroom’s style and maximise your space.
Incorporate mirrors to reflect light
Mirrors are one of the oldest tricks in the book for visually expanding a room. In a small bathroom, a large mirror can double the amount of light bouncing around the space, creating the illusion of depth and openness.
Placing a mirror opposite a window or near a light source will amplify natural light, making the room feel airy and bright. For added functionality and style, consider mirrors with integrated LED lighting — these provide excellent task lighting for grooming and add a modern touch to your bathroom design.
If you’re looking for more inspirations on how to incorporate mirrors into your bathroom design, we’ve got you covered in this blog.
Upgrade your bathroom today
Having a small bathroom area means you often face space challenges, especially in older homes or townhouses. But with smart design choices like open walk-in showers, hobless entries, light colour schemes, and clever storage, your small bathroom can be transformed into a beautiful, practical space tailored to your WA lifestyle.
At WA Assett, we specialise in bathroom renovations that maximise space without compromising on style or quality. Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek, modern walk-in shower or a bright, accessible bathroom retreat, our team has the local experience to bring your vision to life. If you’re keen to explore more ways to maximise your bathroom space, be sure to check out our Small Bathroom Ideas for WA Homes — packed with practical advice for making the most of limited space.
