15 Genius Small Bathroom Ideas with Tub for Smart Makeovers

Okay, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – or should I say, the tub that barely fits in the room? You know that feeling when you walk into your tiny bathroom and wonder if someone played a cruel joke by installing a bathtub that leaves you exactly three inches to shimmy past? Yeah, I’ve been there.

But here’s the thing: having a small bathroom doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice your soaking sanctuary. I’ve spent the last decade helping friends renovate their cramped bathrooms, and trust me, I’ve seen some real doozies.

The good news? With the right approach, you can transform that shoebox-sized space into something that actually makes you smile every morning.

So grab your coffee (or wine, no judgment here), and let’s chat about 15 brilliant ways to make your small bathroom work with a tub. These aren’t just random Pinterest fantasies – these are real, practical solutions that actually work in the real world.

Corner Bathtub for Small Bathrooms

Ever notice how corners just sit there, doing absolutely nothing? What a waste of prime real estate! Corner bathtubs are basically the superhero of small bathroom design – they swoop in and save the day when you thought all hope was lost.

I installed one of these bad boys in my first apartment, and honestly, it changed everything. You get all the benefits of a full-sized tub while freeing up valuable floor space for, you know, actually being able to turn around. The triangular shape fits snugly into that awkward corner, and suddenly your bathroom feels twice as big.

Why Corner Tubs Rock

The best part about corner tubs? They come in tons of different styles:

• Rounded edges for a softer look
• Angular designs for modern vibes
• Deep soaking models for when you really need to disappear for a while
• Some even have built-in armrests (fancy, right?)

Pro tip: Look for models with a curved front edge. They give you more internal space without hogging the floor. My neighbor installed one last year, and now I’m honestly a bit jealous of her setup.

Freestanding Tub in Compact Space

Okay, I know what you’re thinking. “A freestanding tub in my tiny bathroom? Have you lost your mind?” Hear me out though. Sometimes doing the unexpected creates the illusion of more space.

When you push everything against the walls, your bathroom can feel like a prison cell. But pop a sleek freestanding tub in there, and suddenly you’ve got this gorgeous focal point that makes the whole room feel intentional rather than cramped. It’s like wearing a bold accessory with a simple outfit – it just works.

Making It Work

Here’s how to pull off this seemingly crazy idea:

• Choose a narrow, deep model rather than a wide one
• Position it parallel to the longest wall
• Keep at least 15 inches of clearance on one side
• Go for simple, clean lines to avoid visual clutter

I helped my sister install a 55-inch freestanding tub in her 5×8 bathroom last summer. Everyone thought we were nuts, but now it looks like something out of a boutique hotel. Sometimes you just gotta trust the process 🙂

Shower and Tub Combo Design

Let’s get real for a second. The shower-tub combo gets way too much hate, IMO. Sure, it’s not as Instagram-worthy as separate fixtures, but when you’re working with 40 square feet, you can’t afford to be picky.

Modern shower-tub combos have come a long way from those generic fiberglass units your grandma had. Today’s options include sleek glass doors, rainfall showerheads, and even built-in niches for your seventeen bottles of shampoo (we all have them, don’t lie).

Smart Combo Features to Consider

• Sliding glass doors instead of shower curtains
• Built-in shower caddies at the perfect height
• Hand-held shower attachments for flexibility
• Non-slip surfaces that actually look good

The key is choosing quality materials and finishes. Skip the basic builder-grade stuff and invest in something with clean lines and nice hardware. Your future self will thank you every morning.

Also Read: 15 Brilliant Small Bathroom and Laundry Room Combo Ideas to Try

Built-In Storage Around the Tub

Storage in a small bathroom? What’s that? If you’re like me, you’ve probably perfected the art of balancing shampoo bottles on the tub edge like some kind of bathroom Jenga master. But there’s a better way, friends.

Built-in storage around your tub is basically free real estate. You’re already losing that space to the tub structure, so why not make it work harder? I’m talking recessed niches, ledges, and clever cubbies that hold all your stuff without eating up precious floor space.

Storage Solutions That Actually Work

Here’s what I’ve learned works best:

• Recessed niches in the tub surround (12″ x 12″ minimum)
• Corner shelves that fit snugly above the tub
• Ledge extensions that double as storage and seating
• Toe-kick drawers beneath platform tubs

When I renovated my bathroom two years ago, I added three recessed niches at different heights. Game changer! No more knocking bottles over with my elbow mid-shower.

Minimalist White Tub Layout

Sometimes less really is more. A minimalist white tub setup creates the illusion of space better than any fancy trick I know. White reflects light, makes rooms feel bigger, and gives you that spa-like vibe everyone’s after.

But here’s the thing – minimalist doesn’t mean boring. It means being intentional about every single element. Choose one statement piece (maybe a gorgeous faucet or a pop of wood), and let everything else fade into clean, white simplicity.

Making White Work

To nail the minimalist white look:

• Layer different shades of white for depth
• Add texture through tiles or materials
• Include one natural element like wood or stone
• Keep hardware finishes consistent

My best friend went full minimalist last year, and her tiny bathroom now feels like a zen retreat. Who knew that doing less could achieve so much?

Clawfoot Tub for Vintage Style

Want to know a secret? Clawfoot tubs are actually perfect for small bathrooms. Why? Because you can see under them! That visible floor space tricks your brain into thinking the room is bigger than it really is.

Plus, let’s be honest, nothing says “I have my life together” quite like soaking in a clawfoot tub. Even if your bathroom is the size of a closet, that vintage charm makes everything feel intentional and curated rather than cramped.

Clawfoot Considerations

Before you jump on the clawfoot bandwagon:

• Measure your doorways (seriously, measure twice)
• Check your floor strength – these babies are heavy
• Consider wall-mounted faucets to save space
• Think about shower attachments if you need dual function

I installed a 54-inch clawfoot in my last rental (with permission, obvs), and it transformed that sad little bathroom into the apartment’s best feature. The landlord even increased the rent for the next tenant – oops?

Also Read: 15 Clever Very Small Bathroom Ideas That Maximize Space

Under-Window Bathtub Placement

Got a window in your bathroom? Lucky you! Placing your tub under the window is like hitting the small bathroom jackpot. Natural light makes everything feel bigger, and who doesn’t want to soak while gazing at the sky?

This setup works especially well because it uses wall space that’s often wasted. Plus, the window acts as a natural focal point, drawing the eye up and making your ceiling feel higher. It’s basically free architectural interest.

Window Tub Tips

Make the most of this prime position:

• Install privacy window film that still lets light in
• Add waterproof window treatments
• Consider a plant ledge for some greenery
• Use moisture-resistant materials around the window

Fair warning: Once you experience a sunny morning soak with natural light streaming in, there’s no going back. You might start calling in “sick” more often.

Spa-Inspired Small Bathroom Tub

Who says you need a massive bathroom to create a spa vibe? Small spaces can feel just as luxurious with the right approach. Think quality over quantity here.

I’m talking about deep soaking tubs, mood lighting, and materials that make you want to light a candle and forget your responsibilities for an hour. The key is choosing elements that engage all your senses – soft textures, calming colors, maybe even a small essential oil diffuser.

Creating Your Mini Spa

Transform your tiny tub area into a retreat:

• Install dimmable lighting for ambiance
• Add a teak bath mat or stool
• Use natural materials like stone or wood
• Include built-in speakers for meditation music
• Keep luxurious towels within reach

My current setup includes a waterproof Bluetooth speaker hidden behind a plant, and honestly, it’s better than most actual spas I’ve visited. Total cost? Under $50.

Space-Saving Japanese Soaking Tub

Can we talk about Japanese soaking tubs for a minute? These things are genius! They’re deeper than they are long, which means you can have a proper soak without needing a football field-sized bathroom.

Traditional Western tubs make you lie down, taking up tons of floor space. But Japanese soaking tubs let you sit upright, submerged up to your shoulders in a fraction of the footprint. Mind. Blown.

Why Japanese Tubs Make Sense

Here’s what makes them perfect for small spaces:

• 40% less floor space than traditional tubs
• More water depth for better soaking
• Often include built-in seats
• Work great with modern minimalist design

I tried one at a hotel in Tokyo (humble brag), and now I’m convinced every small bathroom should have one. You haven’t lived until you’ve soaked sitting up – trust me on this.

Also Read: 15 Trendy Small Bathroom with Shower Ideas That Maximize Space

Floating Shelves Above Bathtub

Real talk: the space above your tub is prime storage territory that most people completely ignore. Installing floating shelves up there is like finding a $20 bill in your old jacket pocket – pure bonus space!

But here’s where people mess up: they either go too high (need a ladder to reach anything) or too low (bonk their head getting out of the tub). The sweet spot? About 48-54 inches from the tub rim.

Shelf Styling Secrets

Make your floating shelves both functional and beautiful:

• Mix practical items with decor (80/20 rule)
• Use matching containers for visual cohesion
• Add small plants that thrive in humidity
• Include artwork or candles for personality
• Keep frequently used items at eye level

My floating shelves hold everything from extra towels to my embarrassingly large collection of bath bombs. No shame in the bath bomb game!

Dark Tile Tub Surround for Contrast

Okay, this might sound counterintuitive, but dark tiles around your tub can actually make a small bathroom feel larger. How? They create depth and drama that draws the eye, making the space feel more sophisticated and intentional.

I was skeptical too until I saw my cousin’s bathroom renovation. She used charcoal grey tiles around her basic white tub, and suddenly it looked like something from a design magazine. The contrast creates visual interest that distracts from the room’s actual size.

Dark Tile Do’s and Don’ts

Pull off dark tiles like a pro:

• Balance with white fixtures for contrast
• Use large format tiles to minimize grout lines
• Add good lighting to prevent cave vibes
• Consider matte finishes to hide water spots
• Keep the floor lighter to maintain flow

The first time I suggested dark tiles to a client with a tiny bathroom, they looked at me like I’d suggested painting the walls with tar. Now it’s their favorite room in the house. Sometimes you gotta take risks!

Glass Partition with Tub Area

Glass partitions are basically invisibility cloaks for your bathroom. They separate spaces without making anything feel closed off. It’s like having your cake and eating it too – privacy when you need it, openness all the time.

Installing a glass partition between your tub and the rest of the bathroom creates distinct zones without sacrificing that precious feeling of spaciousness. Plus, it keeps shower spray contained when you’re using that shower-tub combo.

Glass Partition Pointers

Get the most from your glass partition:

• Choose frameless designs for maximum openness
• Consider frosted sections for privacy
• Install proper ventilation to prevent fogging
• Use clear glass if privacy isn’t an issue
• Add subtle hardware that doesn’t distract

FYI, cleaning glass is easier than you think with the right products. I use a squeegee after every shower, and my glass still looks new two years later.

Modern Black and White Tub Design

Black and white is the little black dress of bathroom design – it never goes out of style and always looks put together. This classic combo works especially well in small spaces because it creates clear visual boundaries without overwhelming the eye.

The trick is getting the ratio right. Too much black and your bathroom feels like a cave. Too much white and it’s boring. I usually go for about 70% white, 30% black, with maybe a tiny pop of metal or wood for warmth.

Black and White Balance

Nail the modern monochrome look:

• Use black fixtures against white walls
• Add geometric patterns for interest
• Include metallic accents (brass or chrome)
• Consider black grout with white tiles
• Keep accessories minimal and coordinated

When my brother renovated his tiny bathroom, we went full black and white, and now everyone thinks he hired a designer. Nope, just good old Pinterest research and some confidence!

Subway Tile Walls with Bathtub

Subway tiles are like the jeans of the tile world – they go with everything and never really go out of style. Around a bathtub, they create clean lines that make your space feel organized and intentional.

But here’s where you can get creative. Sure, traditional white horizontal placement is classic, but have you considered vertical installation? Or a herringbone pattern? Or colored grout? The possibilities are endless, even in a tiny space.

Subway Tile Tricks

Elevate your subway tile game:

• Try vertical installation to make ceilings feel higher
• Use contrasting grout for a graphic look
• Consider larger format subway tiles (4×12 instead of 3×6)
• Add a decorative border for personality
• Mix matte and glossy finishes for depth

I’ve installed subway tiles in three different bathrooms now, and each one looks completely different. It’s all about the details, people!

Compact L-Shaped Tub Installation

Last but definitely not least, let’s talk about L-shaped tubs – the Swiss Army knife of small bathroom solutions. These clever designs give you the bathing space you need while creating a natural shelf for all your stuff.

The genius of L-shaped tubs is that they work with your room’s layout instead of against it. Got an awkward corner? Perfect. Need somewhere to put your coffee while you soak? That ledge has you covered. Want to feel like you planned this whole thing? L-shaped tubs make you look like a design genius.

L-Shaped Layout Logic

Maximize your L-shaped tub installation:

• Use the ledge for built-in storage
• Add waterproof cushions for seating
• Install corner shelving above
• Consider tile continuation onto the ledge
• Include hidden storage underneath if possible

Wrapping It All Up

So there you have it – 15 ways to make your small bathroom work with a tub without losing your sanity or your savings account. The truth is, small bathrooms force you to get creative, and that’s when the magic happens.

Remember, the best bathroom isn’t the biggest one – it’s the one that works for your life. Whether you go for that corner tub, embrace the shower-combo life, or splurge on a mini clawfoot, the key is making intentional choices that reflect how you actually use the space.

I’ve renovated enough tiny bathrooms to know that every square inch counts, but I’ve also learned that smart design beats size every time. Pick one or two ideas from this list that really speak to you, and start there. Y

ou don’t need to do everything at once (unless you want to, in which case, you’re braver than me).

The next time someone tells you that you can’t have a nice bathtub in a small bathroom, just smile and show them your awesome new space.

Because at the end of the day, a relaxing soak in your perfectly designed small bathroom beats no tub at all, every single time. Now if you’ll excuse me, all this tub talk has me ready for a nice long soak!