Are you planning a bathroom remodel? Or, maybe just a small change that could make a big difference in how spacious and accessible your bathroom is? Well, this blog post is for you!
When you're designing a small bathroom, you want to maximize every inch of the bathroom floor. But at the same time, you want to make sure the room feels open and stylish – and that's a challenge! However, one key element most homeowners overlook is the shower door. Here's more!
Pick the Right Door Opening Style
The type of shower door you choose, including the size and features, can do more than just aesthetics. It will enhance the appearance, but it will also make your bathroom feel much bigger, especially if you go for sliding glass shower doors.
On the other hand, you pick the wrong one, and your bathroom will feel more like a cramped and stressful space. So, how do you pick the right one? Well, we have a few tips and ideas on how you can optimise the design and practicality of your bathroom using a shower door!
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Sliding Doors
If you have a narrow layout, sliding doors should be the go-to option then. These doors move along a track, so there's no need for a swing radius that might eat into the available space. It's also ideal for tight spaces for easier movement, and also doesn't take additional floor area.
In case you're working with a tiny apartment bathroom or a compact en suite, sliding doors are a great choice. They'll leave you with a sleek appearance and add more functional value to your small bathroom.
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Folding Doors
If your shower is near the toilet, vanity, or storage, you should consider folding doors. They are ideal here because, unlike swinging doors, they can fold back into themselves. That way, you save even more space.
On the other hand, you can for the accordion-style design to improve accessibility. They don't take up unnecessary floor space and work extremely well if you have an unconventional layout.
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Fixed Glass Panels
If privacy isn't a major concern, fixed glass panels seem to be a popular option. This type of shower door has a fixed panel which leads to a half-enclosed shower. So, you have shower space that feels open and connected.
It works ideally for a very small bathroom. Plus, if you want an open, airy atmosphere, a fixed glass panel door might be a great investment. With clear glass options, you can improve the light flow and make the bathroom feel less cramped.
Choose the Right Materials
Moving on, the choice of materials will also make a huge difference in your bathroom. You want a shower door that won't just look good but also perform well – and for a long time. Regardless, if there's less space, you want lighter materials. That way, you can ensure durability with ease of maintenance and a spacious feel.
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Frameless Glass
If you want a more modern and clean look, then frameless glass is the ideal choice. They are minimalist, without bulky metal framing, and let light pass throughout without obstruction. With the transparency effect, frameless glass makes the room feel bigger than it is. Plus, it's also easier to clean and maintain.
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Tempered Glass (with Safety Film)
Since safety should be the top priority, small bathrooms work perfectly with tempered glass. This material usually comes with a safety film, which makes it tough and more resistant to breakage. It's ideal for small bathrooms because tiny spaces have a higher potential for accidents. And, with the safety film, you benefit from higher durability.
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Frosted Glass
If you want to enhance privacy, go for frosted glass doors. They are an excellent option that will let you maintain privacy but still allow ample light into the space. That way, you can get a more sophisticated look that combines style and functionality without making the space feel tight.
Optimize Layouts for Maximum Space and Function
After sorting the door type and materials, you want to choose a design that will maximize the available space. So, being strategic will help you improve usability, create more flow, and open up the space better than before.
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Go Vertical
You can go for wall-mounted vanities and shelves to save floor space. As a result, it will make the small bathroom feel larger. Also, by lifting fixtures off the floor, you will have more openness and ease of cleaning.
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L-Shape Corner Design
With an L-shaped corner design, you can easily maximize the limited bathroom space. The shower area will feel spacious without overwhelming the rest of the floor area. This type of layout often works best with sliding or folding doors.
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Add LED Mirrors
You can also install LED mirrors in the bathroom to “visually” expand the space. With a soft glow, your bathroom will benefit from the enhanced depth that can make the room feel lighter.
Other Tips for Optimal Bathroom Comfort and Functionality
So, the shower door seems complete with the right style, material, and layout. What's next? You want to make sure the bathroom features accessories and fixtures that will complement the new shower door. Yes, we're talking about both overall comfort and the door's longevity.
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Low or No Threshold
If you're dealing with mobility issues in the bathroom, go for a low or no-threshold shower door. That will make the transition from the bathroom to the shower smoother. And, it will also prevent water spills and the damage from it to extend the door's functional life.
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Magnetic Seals
One way to prevent leaks is to go for a shower door that has a strong magnetic seal. It is extremely effective for small spaces where water can easily escape, and will help you keep your bathroom dry and clean. -
Rust-Resistant Hardware
To make sure you get the best use of your new shower door, go for rust-resistant hardware. The top choices include:- Stainless steel
- Aluminum
Conclusion
From the right shower door to the lighting and mirror sizes, you want to enhance the bathroom's design and aesthetics. At the same time, you want to keep it spacious, connected, and accessible enough for a comfortable experience.
We suggest starting with the right shower door type. Then, check out different materials and glass door varieties available to you. To get the best options, our team suggests talking to the top-rated professionals near you, like Inyouths.
We will help you find the best shower door, with other professional recommendations, so you can make the most of your small bathroom space!
