Small Bathroom, Big Impact: Smart Renovation Ideas
September 8, 2025
Small Bathroom, Big Impact: Smart Renovation Ideas
Small bathrooms often get a bad reputation—tight layouts, limited storage, and poor lighting can make them feel more like a challenge than a comfort. But the truth is, with the right design choices, a compact bathroom can be just as stylish and functional as a larger space. In fact, many homeowners discover that clever small-bathroom renovations not only maximise space but also add significant value to their property.
At Casey Constructions, we’ve helped countless Brisbane families transform cramped bathrooms into modern sanctuaries. With a focus on smart design, quality fixtures, and licensed craftsmanship, we make every square metre work harder for you.
Here are seven powerful ideas to get the most out of your small bathroom renovation.
1. Floating Vanities: Style Meets Functionality
One of the smartest ways to create the illusion of space is by using floating vanities. Instead of bulky cabinetry that eats into your floor plan, a wall-mounted vanity opens up the floor, making your bathroom look larger and more airy.
Not only does this design trick enhance the sense of space, but it also allows for practical under-vanity storage—perfect for baskets, scales, or even extra towels. Pair it with sleek, handle-free cabinetry to maintain a clean, minimalist look.
💡 Tip: Choose light-coloured finishes such as matte white, pale timber, or stone to keep the room bright.
👉 Want to see real samples? Visit our Cannon Hill showroom and explore a wide range of floating vanities that balance style with practicality.
2. Frameless Glass Showers for a Seamless Look
Traditional shower cubicles with metal frames and frosted panels can chop up a small bathroom visually. Instead, opt for a frameless glass shower. These transparent panels remove visual barriers, creating the illusion of a continuous space.
Casey Constructions often recommends walk-in showers with a single glass panel, eliminating the need for swinging doors that take up precious floor space. Combine this with a linear drain system for a sleek, contemporary finish.
💡 Tip: Extend your wall tiles into the shower area for a seamless, unified look—it makes the space feel larger and more luxurious.
👉 Ready to upgrade? Our bathroom renovation services can help you design a frameless shower layout that maximises functionality.
3. Mirrors and Strategic Lighting: Double the Space
Mirrors are every designer’s secret weapon for small spaces. A large, wall-to-wall mirror can visually double the size of your bathroom, reflecting both natural and artificial light.
Pair this with layered lighting:
- Task lighting around the vanity for grooming.
- Ambient lighting for overall brightness.
- Accent lighting (such as LED strips under the vanity) for a touch of luxury.
Casey Constructions partners with trusted suppliers to source energy-efficient LED lighting that enhances both functionality and mood.
💡 Tip: Install a backlit mirror to add both sophistication and practical illumination.
4. Built-In Niches and Hidden Storage
Clutter is the enemy of small bathrooms. Instead of adding bulky shelves or cabinets, consider built-in wall niches for shampoos, soaps, and accessories. Not only are they practical, but they also create clean lines that keep the room looking streamlined.
Our team specialises in designing custom storage solutions that fit your lifestyle—whether it’s recessed shelving in the shower or clever cabinetry built into unused wall space.
💡 Tip: Keep storage areas aligned with the wall tile pattern for a seamless, integrated look.
👉 Explore our custom renovation process to see how we integrate storage without sacrificing style.
5. Light, Neutral Colours to Brighten the Space
Dark colours can make a small bathroom feel even smaller. Instead, use light, neutral tones to create an open, airy atmosphere. White, soft grey, or natural stone tones work wonders in compact spaces.
To add character without overwhelming the room, introduce subtle contrasts through textured tiles, matte black fixtures, or timber accents.
💡 Tip: Use large-format tiles with minimal grout lines to reduce visual clutter and enhance the sense of spaciousness.
6. Multi-Functional Fixtures
In a small bathroom, every element should earn its place. Think wall-hung toilets, combined shower-bath setups, and vanities with integrated laundry hampers.
Casey Constructions works with top suppliers to ensure that your fixtures are both stylish and space-efficient.
💡 Tip: Opt for wall-mounted taps to save bench space and make cleaning easier.
7. Professional Planning and Licensed Workmanship
Even the smartest ideas can fall flat without professional execution. Waterproofing, plumbing, and ventilation are critical in small bathrooms where every mistake shows.
At Casey Constructions, we’re QBCC-licensed and insured, ensuring your renovation is compliant, durable, and protected by warranty. From the first consultation to the final walkthrough, we handle everything—so you don’t have to.
👉 Book your free on-site consultation and let us help you unlock the full potential of your small bathroom.
Conclusion
A small bathroom doesn’t have to limit your style or functionality. With smart design choices—floating vanities, frameless glass showers, large mirrors, hidden storage, light colour palettes, and multi-functional fixtures—you can create a space that feels both larger and more luxurious.
Most importantly, with Casey Constructions’ licensed team, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your project is handled with precision, care, and transparency.
👉 Transform Your Small Bathroom with Casey Constructions
Introduction One of the biggest decisions in a bathroom renovation is whether to retain your bathtub or swap it out for modern alternatives like a walk-in shower or double vanity. At Casey Constructions , we help Brisbane homeowners navigate that choice, ensuring your design aligns with lifestyle, resale goals, and your home’s flow. The Case for Keeping the Bath Ideal for Families: Having at least one tub is invaluable for families with young children or multi-generational needs. Learn more Resale Appeal: Homes with a bathtub often attract families. It can enhance your property’s appeal if you plan to sell later. Learn more Spa-Like Relaxation: A bathtub—especially a freestanding one—adds a luxurious, spa-like touch to your bathroom. Learn more The Case for Removing the Bath Maximise Space: Removing the bath frees up room for features like a walk-in shower or double vanity — perfect for tighter bathrooms. Learn more Lower Maintenance: Walk-in showers typically require less upkeep than bathtubs, making them a great option for busy households. Learn more Cost Considerations: Opting out of a bathtub may reduce installation complexity and cost. Learn more Market-Targeted Design: For properties aimed at professionals or downsizers (such as apartments or townhouses), a modern walk-in shower may better suit expectations. Learn more Balancing Functionality and Appeal When deciding, consider: • Who uses the bathroom (children, guests, adults)? • Is space limited or generous? • Are long-term resale intentions part of the equation? Each bathroom should align with your home’s needs and your lifestyle goals. Learn more Conclusion Whether you keep the bathtub or opt for a sleek, modern alternative, Casey Constructions is here to guide your decision with expert design and craftsmanship. Ready for advice tailored to your space? ➡ Request a free on-site quote and design consultation and create a bathroom that works as beautifully as it looks.
A bathroom renovation can completely transform the comfort and value of your home but without the right planning, it can also cause unnecessary stress. At Casey Constructions , we’ve been helping Brisbane homeowners create functional, stylish bathrooms since 2014. From our base in Cannon Hill, we’ve delivered projects across the city and surrounding areas, backed by a QBCC licence and a reputation for quality. If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in Brisbane, here are five expert tips to make the process smooth and hassle-free. 1. Start with a Clear Plan The most successful renovations begin with clarity. Decide what you want to achieve—whether it’s more storage, better lighting, or a luxury feel. Collect inspiration images, set a realistic budget, and consider how the space will be used daily. In suburbs like Bulimba or Carindale, where Queenslanders and family homes often have unique layouts, planning ahead ensures you don’t run into unexpected issues later. A clear vision also helps your builder provide accurate timelines and costings. 2. Choose the Right Builder Your choice of builder will make or break the renovation experience. Look for a QBCC-licensed contractor with proven bathroom renovation experience. At Casey Constructions, we bring more than a decade of local expertise, delivering bathrooms that balance style, functionality and compliance. Always check reviews, ask to see previous projects, and confirm who will manage waterproofing, tiling, and compliance certificates. The right builder will guide you through every stage and keep communication open from day one. 3. Focus on Quality Waterproofing and Ventilation Brisbane’s humid climate makes waterproofing and airflow critical. Poor waterproofing can lead to mould, swelling cabinetry and long-term structural damage. Ventilation that only recirculates air won’t keep up with daily use. We recommend investing in a premium waterproofing system backed by warranty, along with extraction fans that vent externally. This protects your home, keeps your bathroom fresh, and saves you from expensive repairs down the track. 4. Select Durable, Low-Maintenance Finishes While it’s tempting to choose purely based on style, durability should always come first. High-quality porcelain tiles, epoxy grout, and PVD-coated tapware all stand up well to Brisbane conditions while remaining easy to clean. In high-demand areas like Ascot, homeowners often choose custom cabinetry and designer tiling that look elegant while keeping maintenance simple. A good renovation strikes the balance between aesthetics and practicality. 5. Communicate and Stay Involved Even with a trusted builder, your input matters. Regular check-ins help keep the project aligned with your vision and allow small adjustments before they become big issues. A good construction team should welcome your questions and provide updates without you having to chase them. At Casey Constructions, we encourage clients to stay involved at every stage. From layout to finishes, open communication ensures the final bathroom reflects both your lifestyle and the quality you expect. Bringing It All Together A hassle-free bathroom renovation comes down to preparation, trust and detail. With the right plan, licensed builder, quality finishes and clear communication, you can avoid stress and enjoy a bathroom that adds daily comfort and long-term value to your Brisbane home. Casey Constructions has been proudly servicing Brisbane since 2014, delivering renovations that stand the test of time. If you’re ready to start your project, call us on 07 3323 3962 or email matt@caseyconstructions.com.au today. FAQs How long does a bathroom renovation usually take in Brisbane? Most bathroom renovations take between three and five weeks, depending on size and complexity. Projects with custom cabinetry or premium tiling may take longer, but planning ahead keeps the schedule on track. Do I need council approval for a bathroom renovation? Generally, no—unless structural changes are required. A licensed builder like Casey Constructions will advise and handle any approvals if needed. What’s the average cost of a bathroom renovation in Brisbane? Costs vary depending on finishes and scope, but a high-quality renovation usually starts from the mid-$20,000s. Investing in durable waterproofing and ventilation always pays off long-term. Can I live in my house during the renovation? Yes, though you’ll need an alternative bathroom setup while work is underway. Your builder should discuss this upfront and help plan a practical solution. How can I make my bathroom more energy-efficient? Consider LED lighting, water-saving fixtures, and ventilation with built-in timers. Choosing durable, light-reflective tiles can also reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day.
Renovations can transform your home—but without the right planning, they can also turn into costly headaches. At Casey Constructions, we’ve helped Brisbane homeowners avoid common pitfalls and enjoy smooth, stress-free projects. Here are the 7 mistakes to avoid when renovating—and how to sidestep them with expert help. 1. Skipping the Planning Stage Jumping straight to demolition is tempting, but lack of planning causes delays and overspending. Solution: Work with Casey Constructions to create a tailored renovation plan before any work begins. Start smart—book a free on-site consultation today. 2. Ignoring Your Budget Unrealistic budgets can derail a project. Solution: We help you balance quality with affordability, offering transparent quotes upfront. 3. Choosing Cheap Materials Cutting corners on materials often leads to repairs later. Solution: Visit our Cannon Hill showroom to explore durable, stylish finishes firsthand. 4. DIYing Complex Work Plumbing, waterproofing, and electrical jobs require licensed professionals. Solution: Trust Casey Constructions’ QBCC-licensed team for safe, compliant installations. 5. Overlooking Ventilation Poor ventilation invites mould and shortens the life of your bathroom. Solution: We design with airflow in mind—protecting your investment long-term. 6. Forgetting About Functionality A beautiful bathroom is useless if it doesn’t function well. Solution: Our design process ensures form always meets function. 7. Not Hiring the Right Builder The biggest mistake? Hiring someone unlicensed or unreliable. Solution: With Casey Constructions, you get licensed professionals backed by a builder’s warranty. Conclusion Avoiding these 7 mistakes can save you time, money, and stress. Get Your Free Renovation Quote with Casey Constructions
Wondering if you should keep or replace your bathtub during your bathroom renovation? Discover expert tips from Casey Constructions, Brisbane’s trusted bathroom renovators.
Good ventilation is essential for a long-lasting bathroom renovation. Learn why airflow matters and how Casey Constructions ensures mold-free, stylish bathrooms in Brisbane.
Wondering if you should keep or replace your bathtub during your bathroom renovation? Discover expert tips from Casey Constructions, Brisbane’s trusted bathroom renovators.
1. Start with Clear Design & Planning Every successful bathroom renovation begins with planning. We work closely with you to understand your needs and preferences—whether it's optimizing storage or creating a spa-like retreat. Collaborating on design early ensures a renovation that truly reflects your lifestyle. 2. Choose Quality Fixtures that Last Opting for durable, stylish fixtures can elevate your bathroom's look and longevity. From sleek tapware to elegant tiles, our team helps you select fixtures that blend aesthetics and performance—built to withstand daily use. 3. Visit Our Showroom to See Options in Real Life Choosing materials online can feel abstract, so we invite you to our local showroom. Experience the look, feel, and finish of real samples—from vanities to tile textures—so you can make confident, well-informed decisions caseyconstructions.com.au. 4. Avoid Renovation Pitfalls with Trusted Craftsmanship A seamless renovation relies on skilled installations and honest craftsmanship. At Casey Constructions, our licensed and insured team manages everything—from demolition to finishing touches—with attention to detail and care. We’ve earned glowing reviews for clarity, professionalism, and reliability: “No nasty surprises and we got exactly what we wanted.” “They are superb—completed on time and excellent workmanship.” ProductReview.com.au 5. Guarantee Your Project Success with Ongoing Support We believe in building relationships, not just bathrooms. That means clear timelines, open communication, and a builder’s warranty for peace of mind. With over a decade of family-owned experience serving Brisbane suburbs, your renovation is in reliable, experienced hands. Conclusion Transform your bathroom into a space that blends style, function, and lifelong quality with the team at Casey Construction s. Ready to start your project? ➡ Request your free on-site quote today and let’s make your bathroom renovation stress-free and stunning.
A beautiful kitchen doesn’t have to come with a surprise price tag. If you’re planning a kitchen renovation in Brisbane, getting your budget right is just as important as choosing the right layout or materials. The biggest mistake homeowners make? Underestimating what’s involved—or forgetting the extras.
At Casey Constructions, we help clients avoid budget blowouts with clear quotes, smart planning, and options to suit different price points. Because renovating should feel exciting—not stressful.
When planning a bathroom renovation, choosing the right vanity is one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make. The vanity serves as both a functional space for storage and a key design element that can set the tone for the entire room. In recent years, floating vanities have become increasingly popular due to their modern aesthetic, space-saving design, and versatility. Here’s why a floating vanity might be the perfect addition to your bathroom renovation. 1. Creates a Modern, Sleek Look One of the most significant advantages of a floating vanity is the sleek, contemporary look it provides. By mounting the vanity off the floor, you create clean, uninterrupted lines that contribute to a minimalist and modern aesthetic. This design choice can make your bathroom feel more open and less cluttered, which is particularly beneficial in smaller spaces. Floating vanities often feature streamlined designs with integrated sinks, handleless drawers, and simple finishes, all of which contribute to a polished, modern appearance. Whether you’re aiming for a completely modern bathroom or want to incorporate a contemporary touch into a more traditional space, a floating vanity can be the perfect focal point. 2. Maximises Floor Space One of the most practical benefits of a floating vanity is that it frees up floor space, making your bathroom feel larger and more open. This is especially important in smaller bathrooms or powder rooms, where every square inch counts. By keeping the floor clear, a floating vanity creates the illusion of more space, which can make even the tiniest bathroom feel more comfortable and inviting. Additionally, the open space beneath the vanity can be used creatively. You can place decorative baskets for additional storage, install lighting to create an ambient glow, or simply enjoy the extra legroom. This flexibility makes floating vanities an excellent choice for bathrooms of all sizes. 3. Offers Versatile Design Options Floating vanities come in a wide range of styles, materials, and finishes, giving you the freedom to customise your bathroom’s look to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a natural wood finish for a warm, organic feel or a high-gloss lacquer for a sleek, modern vibe, there’s a floating vanity to match your vision. You can also choose from various configurations, including single or double sinks, multiple drawers, and open shelving. This versatility allows you to design a vanity that not only fits your bathroom’s aesthetic but also meets your storage needs. 4. Improves Cleaning and Maintenance Another practical advantage of a floating vanity is that it makes cleaning your bathroom easier. With the vanity raised off the floor, you can easily sweep or mop underneath it, ensuring that dust and dirt don’t accumulate in hard-to-reach corners. This not only keeps your bathroom cleaner but also reduces the time and effort required for maintenance. Moreover, the smooth surfaces and minimalist design of most floating vanities make them easier to wipe down and keep spotless. If you’re looking for a vanity that combines style with low maintenance, a floating design is an excellent choice. 5. Supports Weight and Conceals Plumbing One of the practical considerations when installing a floating vanity is ensuring that it is properly supported and that the plumbing is effectively concealed. At Casey Constructions, we can cover the waste pipe with Gyprock wall sheets that are then waterproofed and tiled, making the plumbing almost invisible to the eye. This approach not only enhances the clean, modern look of the vanity but also helps to support the weight of the vanity itself. By creating a solid, reinforced structure behind the vanity, we ensure that it remains securely mounted and does not tilt or shift over time, even if someone leans on it. This additional support is crucial for maintaining the long-term stability and safety of your floating vanity, giving you peace of mind that it will stand the test of time. 6. Enhances Lighting and Ambience The space beneath a floating vanity offers a unique opportunity to enhance your bathroom’s lighting and overall ambience. By installing LED strip lighting underneath the vanity, you can create a soft, ambient glow that adds warmth and sophistication to the room. This type of lighting is particularly effective for evening use, as it provides enough illumination to navigate the space without the need for harsh overhead lights. In addition to improving the mood of the bathroom, under-vanity lighting can also serve as a practical nightlight, making it easier to use the bathroom at night without disturbing others. 7. Adapts to Any Bathroom Size Floating vanities are not limited to small bathrooms; they work just as well in larger spaces. In a large bathroom, a floating vanity can create a stunning focal point, especially when paired with other modern design elements like large-format tiles or a frameless shower enclosure. You can also opt for a longer floating vanity with dual sinks, offering both style and practicality for a master ensuite. In smaller bathrooms, the space-saving benefits of a floating vanity are even more pronounced. By keeping the floor area clear, you maximise the usable space, making the bathroom feel more spacious and less confined. Every Home is Unique When it comes to bathroom renovations, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Every home has its own unique style, space constraints, and functional needs. At Casey Constructions, we understand the importance of creating a bathroom that reflects your personal taste while meeting your practical requirements. Whether you’re looking to install a floating vanity as part of a complete bathroom overhaul or simply want to update your existing space, our team has the expertise to guide you through the process. Final Thoughts A floating vanity offers numerous benefits, from creating a modern, sleek look to maximising floor space and improving maintenance. Whether you’re renovating a small powder room or a spacious master bathroom, a floating vanity can be a stylish and practical addition that enhances the overall design and functionality of the space. At Casey Constructions, we’re committed to helping you achieve your dream bathroom. From selecting the perfect vanity to ensuring a seamless installation with proper support and concealed plumbing, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Let’s work together to create a bathroom that not only meets your needs but also exceeds your expectations.
Tiles are one of the most versatile and impactful materials you can use in a bathroom renovation. Whether you’re aiming to create a striking focal point, add subtle texture, or achieve a stylish look on a budget, the right tiles can transform your bathroom into a beautiful and functional space. Here’s how you can use porcelain and ceramic tiles effectively in your renovation, focusing on focal points, textures, and cost-effective solutions. 1. Creating Focal Points with Smaller Tiles One of the most effective ways to add visual interest to your bathroom is by creating a focal point using smaller tiles on a feature wall. This could be behind the vanity, around the bath, or in the shower area. Smaller tiles, such as mosaics or patterned tiles, can highlight these areas and draw the eye, making them the hero of your bathroom design. For instance, a feature wall behind the vanity can serve as a stunning backdrop, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the space. Similarly, tiling the wall around the bathtub with smaller tiles can create a luxurious, spa-like feel. The key is to use these tiles sparingly, focusing on one area to avoid overwhelming the space. 2. Running Floor Tiles Up the Wall for a Cohesive Look If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to add style to your bathroom, consider running the same floor tiles up the walls. This technique not only creates a cohesive and streamlined look but also maximises the impact of your chosen tile. By using the same tiles on both the floor and walls, you can create a seamless transition that makes the space feel larger and more unified. This approach is particularly effective in smaller bathrooms, where visual continuity can help to enhance the sense of space. It’s also a great way to stretch your renovation budget, as you won’t need to purchase different tiles for the walls, simplifying the design process and reducing costs. 3. Adding Subtle Details with Textured Tiles Textured tiles are an excellent way to introduce subtle details into your bathroom design. While they may not be as bold as patterned or mosaic tiles, textured tiles add depth and interest to your walls without overwhelming the space. Whether you choose a gentle ripple effect, a natural stone texture, or a geometric pattern, textured tiles can bring a touch of sophistication to your bathroom. Textured tiles are particularly effective in neutral or monochromatic colour schemes, where they can create visual interest without the need for bold colours or patterns. Consider using textured tiles on a single wall, in the shower area, or as a border to add a unique touch to your bathroom. 4. Gloss or Matt Tiles: Which Is Best for Your Walls? When choosing tiles for your bathroom walls, the finish is just as important as the colour or pattern. Gloss tiles and matt tiles each have their own advantages, depending on the look and feel you want to achieve. Gloss Tiles: Gloss tiles reflect light, making them an excellent choice for smaller bathrooms or areas with limited natural light. Their reflective surface can help to brighten the space and make it feel more open. Gloss tiles also have a sleek, modern appearance, making them a popular choice for contemporary bathroom designs. Matt Tiles: Matt tiles, on the other hand, offer a more understated and sophisticated look. They don’t reflect as much light as gloss tiles, which can create a softer, more relaxed atmosphere. Matt tiles are also less prone to showing water spots or fingerprints, making them a practical choice for high-use areas like the shower. Both gloss and matt tiles work well on walls, so your choice will depend on the overall style and feel you want to achieve in your bathroom. 5. Cost-Effective Tile Sizes for a Stylish Bathroom When it comes to cost-effective tiling, the size of the tiles you choose can make a big difference. Standard tile sizes like 300mm x 600mm and 600mm x 600mm are typically more affordable and easier to work with, making them a popular choice for bathroom renovations. These sizes are versatile and can be used on both floors and walls, allowing for a cohesive look throughout the space. 300mm x 600mm Tiles: These tiles are a great mid-size option that balances style and practicality. They’re large enough to reduce the number of grout lines, which makes cleaning easier, but not so large that they dominate the space. This size is particularly effective in medium to large bathrooms. 600mm x 600mm Tiles: Larger tiles like these can make a small bathroom feel more spacious by minimising grout lines. They’re also an excellent choice for modern, minimalist designs, where a clean, uninterrupted surface is key. However, in smaller bathrooms, it’s essential to ensure that the tile size doesn’t overwhelm the space. Subway Tiles: Subway tiles are another cost-effective and stylish option, especially for creating classic, timeless designs. Their smaller size and rectangular shape make them ideal for feature walls or as a backsplash in the vanity area. When installed in a brick pattern, they add a touch of texture and interest without being overly bold. 6. Minimising Grout for a Clean Look One of the key considerations when tiling a bathroom is the amount of grout you’ll need. Less grout generally means easier maintenance and a cleaner, more streamlined look. Larger tiles reduce the number of grout lines, which not only makes cleaning easier but also creates a more modern, cohesive appearance. In contrast, smaller tiles or intricate patterns may require more grout, which can be more challenging to keep clean. However, using a grout colour that matches or complements your tiles can help minimise the visual impact of the grout lines, creating a more seamless look. Every Home is Unique Choosing the right tiles for your bathroom renovation is a critical step in creating a space that is both functional and beautiful. At Casey Constructions, we understand that every bathroom is unique, and we work closely with you to select the tiles that best suit your style, budget, and needs. Whether you’re looking to create a stunning focal point, add subtle texture, or achieve a stylish look on a budget, our team has the expertise to guide you through the process. Final Thoughts Tiles are a powerful design tool in any bathroom renovation. By carefully selecting the right tile size, texture, and finish, you can create a bathroom that reflects your personal style while meeting your practical needs. Whether you choose to highlight a hero area with smaller tiles, run floor tiles up the walls for a cohesive look, or play with textures and finishes, the possibilities are endless. At Casey Constructions, we’re committed to helping you make the best choices for your bathroom renovation. From selecting the perfect tiles to ensuring a flawless installation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s work together to create a bathroom that not only meets your needs but also exceeds your expectations.