How to Fill Awkward Spaces in a Bathroom

Dealing with an awkwardly shaped bathroom? Narrow spaces, weird corners, and cramped areas under sinks are common layout issues that can make a bathroom feel disorganized and closed-in. But with some clever remodeling tricks and DIY upgrades, these challenging spaces can be completely transformed into inviting and functional parts of your bathroom. This comprehensive guide provides tips to help you conquer awkward areas and create a bathroom you’ll love.

First, Assess the Space

When starting any bathroom project, the first step is to measure the entire room and thoroughly assess the awkward areas. Consider available space, locations of plumbing fixtures, windows, doors, and electrical outlets that may impact design options. Determine how you want to utilize the space – more storage, a place for towels, decorative accents? Identifying your needs will provide direction.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself during assessment:

• What are the exact dimensions of the awkward spaces?
• What is located nearby – plumbing, electrical, windows?
• What function do I want this space to serve?
• Can I make structural changes like moving plumbing?
• What is my budget for upgrades?

Once you’ve measured and assessed, use the following tips to transform even the most awkward area into a useful part of your bathroom.

Maximize Narrow Spaces and Corners

Tight corners and narrow walls are prime spots to take advantage of vertical storage space. Floor space may be limited, but you can make the most of vertical room. Here are some excellent storage options perfect for narrow areas:

Corner Shelving

Corner shelves staggered at different levels provide useful space to tuck away toiletries, linens and other essentials while keeping them easily accessible. Rotating corner shelves are great space-saving options, making items completely accessible in difficult-to-reach spots.

Vertical Storage Racks

Vertical storage units like freestanding racks, hanging shelves, and modular systems make use of all available vertical room. Perfect for neatly organizing towels, toilet paper, and bathroom necessities in a slim footprint.

Custom Built-In Cabinets

For a fully customized look, have cabinets or shelving built right into the awkward space. Built-ins are designed to make the most of every inch available and can be configured to fit your exact storage needs.

Optimize Under Sink Space

The area under bathroom sinks often goes unused. Add function and storage with these clever upgrades:

Pull-Out Drawers

Installing pull-out drawers instantly provides access to hidden storage space under the sink. Keep toiletries, hair tools, cleaning supplies, and more organized yet hidden from sight.

Tilt-Out Trays

Tilt-out trays are an ingenious way to access frequently used items under the sink. Perfect for holding cotton swabs, soaps, cosmetics and small bath accessories. Just tilt the tray to reveal the items.

Hanging Storage

Install hanging wire racks or baskets under the sink to hold rolled washcloths, hand towels, and other bathroom linens. Hanging storage is easy to access and takes advantage of vertical space.

Use Mirrors and Lighting to Visually Expand

Strategically placed mirrors and lighting make awkward bathrooms feel instantly brighter and more spacious.

• Mount a beautiful framed mirror on a narrow wall or corner to reflect light and create the illusion of a larger space.
• Add sconces, under cabinet lighting or LED strips to illuminate dark corners and under-sink areas.
• Overhead lighting paired with task lighting ensures all spaces are brightly lit.

Incorporate Colors, Patterns and Textures

Carefully chosen colors, prints and materials create visual interest in awkward bathrooms, drawing the eye to design elements you want to highlight.

• Vibrant paint colors make walls recede, expanding the feel of a cramped space.
• Bold wallpaper prints distract from irregular dimensions and sloped ceilings.
• Natural wood finishes, stone surfaces, and metal accents add depth.

Soften Corners with Plants and Art

Introducing greenery and wall art helps reduce the harshness of sharp corners and edges.

• Hanging plants add warmth and soften hard edges.
• Framed artwork, prints or decorative wall mirrors create lovely focal points.
• Shelving that incorporates plants allows you to add greenery.
• Items like candles, vases or accent lighting help diminish rough corners.

DIY Solutions for Small Budgets

If your budget is limited, you can makeover awkward areas with simple affordable DIY projects:

• New coat of paint in a bold, glossy shade
• Peel-and-stick tile or wallpaper backsplash
• Hanging corner shelves and storage racks
• Mounting framed artwork or mirrors
• Upgrading lighting fixtures
• Adding a fresh shower curtain and accessories
• Organizing with bins, baskets and trays

Comparing Remodeling vs. DIY Upgrades

For more significant upgrades to plumbing, cabinetry or layout, a full remodel may be required. Here is an overview of the differences:

Type	Timeline	Cost
DIY Upgrades	Weekend project	$500 – $2,000
Partial Remodel	1-2 weeks	$2,000 – $5,000
Full Remodel	2-4 weeks	$10,000+

Remodeling

• Makes structural changes like moving walls
• Alters plumbing and electrical
• Replaces cabinetry, sinks, tubs
• Full demolition and rebuild

DIY Upgrades

• Minor upgrades and cosmetic refresh
• Adjusts decor and storage
• Quick projects like paint, shelves
• Affordable materials

Step-By-Step Tips for DIY Projects

With a little creativity, you can upgrade awkward bathroom spaces yourself as DIY projects. Follow these steps:

Clean and Prep

Give the space a deep clean before you begin. Fill any holes in walls, sand rough areas, and clean surfaces.

Measure Precisely

Carefully measure the awkward area and any products you purchase for the space. Precision is key.

Create a Layout

Map out the plan and layout for the area. Mark where items like shelves will be installed.

Purchase Materials and Supplies

Buy all the necessary supplies for the project – paint, storage items, tiles.

Install New Storage Pieces

Carefully install any shelving, cabinets or racks per included directions.

Add Finishing Touches

Finalize the space with accessories, greenery, art and any final details.

Real World Example: A Bathroom Transformation

Here is a real example from my experience fully remodeling an outdated bathroom with awkward wasted spaces:

The homeowners had a cramped L-shaped bathroom with a narrow area between the door and vanity that was an unused eyesore. I suggested reconfiguring the layout and moving the plumbing and electrical to create space for a new linen cabinet.

We opened up the narrow wasted area for a sleek floating vanity with bold floor tile. By installing a frameless glass shower enclosure, I maximized the small footprint. I added recessed shelving into the sloped ceiling which instantly expanded the feel of the tight angled space.

The homeowners were thrilled with the transformation! By remodeling the bathroom layout and creatively utilizing each area, their previously cramped and awkward bathroom became a relaxing spa-like retreat.

With some vision and clever solutions, even the most awkward bathroom layout can be reimagined into a beautiful and functional space. Use these tips to conquer the unique challenges presented by your bathroom. With strategic storage, smart layouts and decorative accents, you can create a bathroom oasis!