Thinking of adding a dash of panache to your small ensuite? Be inspired by these 8 spaces that are small in size but big on style.
Hi. I’m Ruth, Creative Stylist at Victoria Plum. As an experienced interior designer, I know what it takes to transform a small space into one that’s greater than the sum of its part. Today, I’ll be looking at all the things you need to consider when refurbishing an ensuite.
Ensuite bathrooms are, by their very nature, private sanctuaries which you can call your own. As you often only share them with a partner, they can be designed to reflect your own personality, tastes and preferences.
If you’re planning an ensuite bathroom, but simply don’t know where to begin when it comes to styling, don’t fret. I’m here to provide you with all the small ensuite ideas you need to take your home to the next level. So, sit back, relax and be inspired by these 8 ensuite bathrooms that are small in size, but big on style!
1. On-trend colour
When choosing colours for small bathrooms, a light and bright palette will help to create a bright, open and airy ambience.
As small ensuite ideas go, this one really caught my eye, not least because of the bold green/yellow colour, which has been achieved using shower wall panels.
To achieve a contemporary look, keep an eye out for on-trend bathroom colours (a topic which I’m always writing about!). Cyber Lime, Elemental Blue and Fondant Pink are just some of the shades that are set to be big in 2024 and beyond!
2. Playful patterns
To maximise floor space, consider a wall hung vanity, instead of a floorstanding unit. These come in a range of compact sizes, perfect for ensuites, allowing you to be more playful with your flooring.
In the ensuite below, we’ve opted for a feature floor, complete with Victorian style patterned tiles, and extended the theme through floral shower wall panels and hexagonal pink wall tiles.
If you have a lack of natural light, it’s worth fitting an illuminated mirror, providing you with focused task lighting.
3. Compact yet cleverly designed
When coming up with these small ensuite ideas, we had to think long and hard about each and every bathroom layout. One area in which you can save on space is your choice of toilet and basin.
Toilets come in all shapes and sizes, but for small spaces like your ensuite, certain designs can make a significant impact. First off, you could choose a corner toilet that efficiently utilises otherwise challenging corners. For even more space-saving, think about wall hung toilets, which create the illusion of more floor space. And, if your layout allows, a slimline toilet and basin combination unit (like the one from our MySpace furniture range below) is another ingenious design idea for a small ensuite.
4. Sarah Beeny’s country style
If you watched the Channel 4 series Sarah Beeny’s New Life in the Country, you may recognise this next ensuite bathroom!
We worked with entrepreneur and presenter Sarah, along with her husband Graham, to create an idyllic rural retreat from scratch. As part of the process, Sarah and Graham went about creating 4 ensuite bathrooms for their 4 sons, Charlie, Laurie, Billy and Raffey.
We’ve picked out Billy’s bathroom to provide you with some great small ensuite ideas, as we love the luxurious wall-to-wall marble-effect design, combined with traditional fixtures which reflect the classic charm of their countryside home.
With no other properties overlooking it, this ensuite benefits from large windows which, along with natural light, allow for easy ventilation—something you always need to think carefully about when planning an ensuite bathroom.
Find out how to get Sarah Beeny's look in our bathroom style guide
5. Small wet room ensuite
Your choice of shower enclosure can make all the difference in your ensuite. Most enclosures are transparent, which is ideal for ensuites, cloakrooms and compact spaces—allowing light to flood the space.
Depending on the size and shape of your ensuite, you may wish to consider corner shower enclosures, which take up less floor space and make use of tiny corners, or, go all out with a walk in shower or wet room.
Contrary to popular belief, small wet rooms are certainly achievable and could make great use of a compact floor plan. Don’t believe us? Check out the mid-century-inspired bathroom below!
6. Rustic and warming
How about some more small ensuite ideas courtesy of our creative and highly experienced team? This beautiful bathroom combines soft industrial style with rustic elements.
When it comes to basin ideas, the possibilities are endless. As we’ve already seen, you can combine your toilet and basin to solve space-saving challenges, or explore wall hung basins for a stylish yet compact solution. However, if you do have a little more floor space, you can easily boost your storage with a statement vanity unit, like the Dalston below, which comes complete with a genuine marble countertop and inset sink.
7. Light and bright
Strategically placed mirrors can work wonders in making your ensuite feel twice the size. When paired with chrome-finished fittings or glossy furniture, a small bathroom can instantly appear more spacious.
An illuminated bathroom mirror is a stylish way to enhance lighting and spaciousness in your small ensuite while reducing costs. Meanwhile, if ventilation is a concern, a fog-free mirror can help maintain that airy feel and, finally, consider a mirrored cabinet for a double-duty solution that saves both space and money!
If you aren’t blessed with skylights (like the ensuite below), LED spotlights or flush ceiling and wall lighting options can brighten up the room while conserving valuable space that would otherwise be taken up by traditional hanging lights.
8. Bathing beauty
No matter the size of your ensuite, it will always feel cramped when cluttered. When you're pondering small ensuite ideas, your layout is paramount.
Minimise the amount of bathroom furniture to maximise your floor space, and make the most of your walls by incorporating clever shelving (as demonstrated below). Always keep ease of cleaning and mobility in mind when planning your ensuite layout.
By freeing up space, you could conceivably find room for a shower bath—a real treat if you love an undisturbed soak on an evening! Keep your colour scheme warm and welcoming for a relaxing atmosphere.
More tips and advice for ensuites
We hope you’ve been inspired by all our small ensuite ideas. However, if you’re looking for a little guidance or some fresh ideas, Victoria Plum is the place to be!
From our expert ensuite bathroom planning guide to an ensuite buying guide, you’ll find everything you need to help you make the best possible choices.
Discover loads of great ensuite bathroom ideas all in one place and make the most out of your small yet serene sanctuary.
Shop ensuite bathroom suites
At Victoria Plum, officially the UK’s largest online only bathroom retailer, you’ll find a superb range of high quality ensuite bathroom suites at the lowest prices around. In fact, if you find them at a lower price, we’ll match it! Start your shop today by clicking below.
