Plan Your Remodel with These 7 Bathroom Layout Ideas
There’s a lot to think about when you’re remodeling a bathroom. You want it to be a space that meets your daily needs while also being comfortable and inviting.
Where do you start? Do you need a shower or a tub? What bathroom layout will work best?
We’re here to help with tips and tricks, plus layout ideas to help inspire your remodel, whether you’re creating a guest bath, family bath, or primary bath.
How to Plan Your Small Bathroom Layout
Designing a layout for a small bathroom comes with some challenges, but careful planning makes all the difference. First, who will be using the bathroom? Is it for guests, kids, or for you and your partner? A bathroom for kids might benefit from lower sinks, while a guest bathroom may need less storage or fewer features. If it’s a master bathroom, privacy, relaxation, and more storage space are important.
Budget also matters. Keeping existing plumbing in place—rather than moving toilets, sinks, or showers—can save money. Choosing a walk-in shower instead of a full bathtub may reduce costs and leave more usable space. Finally, style preferences such as modern, classic, or minimalist designs can shape the overall feel of the space. Be sure to choose a layout that complements your style without sacrificing functionality.
Common Bathroom Dimensions
Knowing the standard dimensions of bathroom fixtures will give you a better sense of what can fit comfortably in your space, especially for a small bathroom layout plan.
- Bathtub: Standard bathtubs are generally 60” long, 30” wide, and around 14” to 20” deep. Freestanding tubs may be larger, while small alcove tubs fit compact spaces.
- Walk-in shower: A typical walk-in shower is 36” x 36”, but some homeowners prefer larger sizes, such as 48” x 36” or even 60” x 36” for added comfort.
- Toilet: The standard space for a toilet is at least 30” wide, with at least 21” of clearance in front. Wheelchair accessibility requires more space.
- Vanity: Single vanities range from 24” to 48” in width, while double vanities range from 60” to 72”. The depth is typically about 21” to 24”.
These standard dimensions provide a baseline, but you should always measure your space and customize everything to your bathroom’s exact size.
Accessibility Considerations
Keep in mind that accessible bathrooms require specific measurements and additional fixtures. If you or a loved one uses a wheelchair, make sure the doorway is at least 32” wide, and leave a 5-foot turning radius for easy movement. You’ll also need at least 30” of clearance in front of the toilet. You might also install grab bars near the toilet and shower, a raised toilet, and a hand-held showerhead—even if you don’t need them now, they can help future-proof your bathroom as you age.
Tips to Maximize Your Layout for a Small Bathroom
Working with a small bathroom often means getting creative. Here are a few bathroom layout tips to help you design a functional space that doesn’t feel cramped:
- Choose a shower instead of a tub: Tubs take up more room and may not be necessary. A walk-in shower can make a bathroom feel larger.
- Use pocket doors: Traditional swinging doors take up valuable floor space, but pocket doors slide into the wall, freeing up space around the entry.
- Consider sliding shower doors: Like the entry door, swinging shower doors require extra room. Sliding doors save space and reduce the risk of bumping into things.
- Go vertical with storage: Install over-the-toilet storage or mount wall shelves. Vertical storage frees up the floor, creating a more open feel.
- Install floating fixtures: Wall-mounted vanities and sinks offer storage space underneath while making the floor space feel larger. The floating design also adds a modern touch.
- Place fixtures in the corners: Use every inch of your bathroom by placing sinks or toilets in corners. This frees up wall space for storage or other fixtures.
7 Small Bathroom Layout Plans to Inspire Your Project
To help spark your imagination, here are some popular small bathroom layouts that can fit various spaces and needs. They can all be personalized to your space and style.
1. Three-Quarter Bathroom
A three-quarter bathroom layout includes a toilet, sink, and shower, but no bathtub. It uses less space while still offering all the essentials, and it’s perfect for guest bathrooms or homes where a full bath isn’t necessary. This type of bathroom is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical option for busy households.
2. 3-in-a-row Layout
In a 3-in-a-row layout, the toilet, sink, and shower (or bathtub) are aligned along a single wall. This setup works especially well in narrow bathrooms where space is limited. Keeping all the plumbing fixtures on one side also simplifies installation, which can save both time and money. It’s a great choice if you’re working with a tight budget or don’t want to make big changes.
3. Added Privacy Layout 
For busy households, a bathroom layout with added privacy can make shared time more manageable. In this layout, pocket doors separate the vanity area from the shower and toilet. This allows one person to use the sink or vanity while another uses the shower in private. It’s ideal for households where people want to use the bathroom at the same time without feeling crowded.
4. Opposite Wall Layout
This bathroom layout splits the fixtures between two walls, with the sink and toilet on one side and the tub or shower on the other. Dividing the space this way makes the room feel more balanced and spacious. It also allows for better flow, and it works well in medium-sized or long, narrow bathrooms where you have enough space to spread out fixtures.
5. Plenty of Counter Space Layout
Favored by hotels, this layout emphasizes counter space and is great for anyone who wants lots of room for toiletries, makeup, or appliances like hair dryers. Extending the vanity or installing a long countertop provides plenty of storage and space to get ready, and it’s a popular layout for master bathrooms. Consider installing double sinks to get the most from the extra space.
6. Compact Primary Bathroom Layout 
In a small primary bathroom, fitting a bathtub, shower, toilet, and vanity into a compact footprint is possible with a thoughtful layout. This plan uses corners efficiently and uses pocket doors to save space. Despite the limited size, it still has the full range of bathroom features along with a cozy, private feel.
7. Accessible Bathroom Layout
An accessible bathroom is designed with mobility in mind. This plan features wider doorways, a low-threshold shower, and plenty of space to move comfortably. Grab bars and a raised toilet are also essential. This layout is perfect for families with elderly members, anyone with mobility issues, or homeowners who plan to age in place.
Looking to Remodel Your Existing Bathroom Layout?
West Shore Home is here to make your bathroom remodel stress-free. Our expert designers are ready to help you update your bathroom so it fits your style and lifestyle perfectly. We offer free, no-obligation design consultations, so you can explore every option and detail. Let’s get started on making your dream bathroom a reality. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start planning your perfect bathroom.
Bathroom Layout FAQs
What are some practical bathroom layout ideas?
Practical bathroom layouts include options like the “three-in-a-row” setup, which lines up the sink, toilet, and shower along one wall to save space and make installation simpler. For a shared bathroom, a privacy layout with pocket doors separates the vanity from the shower or toilet area.
How can I design a small bathroom layout?
To design a small bathroom layout, choose space-saving fixtures like a walk-in shower and floating vanity, which help create an open feel. Use vertical storage solutions, such as shelves or wall-mounted cabinets, to free up floor space. Pocket doors and light colors also maximize the sense of space.
What’s a Jack and Jill bathroom layout?
A Jack and Jill bathroom layout connects two bedrooms, typically with two sinks and a shared toilet and shower area. This layout is ideal for families or guests, who can share the bathroom while maintaining privacy and streamline morning routines.