Now that the tile in the entryway is done, it’s on to the next home improvement project. Next on the list, is updating the bathroom in the hallway {which just happens to double as a bathroom for the guest room}.
If I had to guess, I’d say the bathroom saw it’s last update some time in the 80’s, and well, it’s time to give it a more updated look, don’t you think?
In a nutshell, the space is awkward.
If only we had another 12″ inches of space in the bathroom we could move the toilet to the long wall with the mirror on it. But since we can’t enlarge the bathroom, and installing a smaller toilet with a different seat would still only net us another 3 inches of leg room, we’re basically stuck with the general, narrow layout of the guest bathroom.
But I do think there are some things we can do help make the layout appear less awkward.
There is a shower at one end of the bathroom and it’s practically in brand new shape, so that stays. I think the only thing we really need to replace is the pipe that comes out of the wall that holds the shower head.
And while the linoleum floor is in decent shape and neutral, since we will be ripping out the vanity, chances are the floor will likely be damaged or stained when we remove it so we’ll be upgrading the floor to tile.
We’re also on the hunt for new lighting as well, since the currently lighting has corroded around the edges and really isn’t our style.
All the door hardware needs to be replaced as well, as that too has seen better days.
So my question to you is this.
If this were YOUR guest bathroom, and you were going to give it a more updated look, what would you do? Would you keep the whole banjo countertop look? Buy a smaller vanity? If so, what kind? Something with drawers? Maybe a pedestal sink? Would you do something fun with the walls? Wallpaper maybe? Or stick with paint?
Would you add a hanging light fixture and get rid of the sconces? Or keep the sconces? Add a towel rack? And if so, where would you put it?
Pulling everything out is the easy part. Putting everything back together again is another story. And I could sure use your suggestions.
~Mavis
Mary P says
Mirror and lights to go. It is covering the light switch. Put in rectangular mirror and bar light. Smaller vanity would give more space and towel bar near shower. Over toilet put towel rack. Amazon has a small one that can hold 6 towels. Hope you don’t mind the the way I attacked this project. We just did this as well.
Melissa says
Definitely a pedestal sink to open up the space a bit. Can’t wait to see how different it looks when you’re done!
Gloria says
Nope. Go with one of the very shallow, wall- mounted sinks available now. (I turned a 7’x4′ closet into a 7’x4′ full bathroom.)
Sue says
I would install a pedestal sink. Rectangular mirror up date lighting. You might want to add an over the toilet cabinet to add height and extra storage. Paint the walls with a spa like color, maybe a soft seagreen.
Lynn Culpepper says
Since it’s a guest bath, you don’t need a lot of storage, so I’d definitely go with a pedestal sink. That would give you the space you need to move the toilet, and space between the shower and the sink. Your room would really grow! We have pedestal sinks in both of our bathrooms (because I love pedestal sinks!), and since I’m not a big “product” user, we’ve never had a storage problem. We have two great (and small) antique pieces to hold towels, tp, etc. Looks way cooler than your run-of-the-mill vanity!
Zan says
I would get one of the small tiny house sinks. This would give you more than enough room with a very narrow vanity top.
Mel says
I’ve never shopped for sinks before, but I feel like it must be possible to find a narrower sink with a shape that better fits the space. A narrow rectangular sink wouldn’t jut out into the room as much, and if it had a narrower vanity with it, you’d still get some storage.
None of our bathrooms are really bad enough to warrant remodeling, but they are all awkward in their own ways and short on storage.
Pam says
Wow! A pedestal sink with a rectangular top. Could work as it would be more traditional. The mirror covering the plug is problem too. I’d say the less going on in such a tight space the better unify it in simplicity and color
Robin in WI says
My two cents as someone who’s never lived with large bathrooms: Pedestal sink, yes, if your guests won’t mind the lack of counter top. A small, narrow end table for a place to set down toiletries, with a shelf or cabinet on the bottom half. Sconces, but nothing that really shows up dust and is a pain to clean. Or a simple light bar above the mirror. My initial though was beadboard and paint, but the beadboard would probably make the bathroom look smaller (so would a patterned wallpaper) so just white or pale-pastel paint. Keep towel hardware on the walls to a minimum as stuff on the walls will contribute to the cramped appearance. Any pedestal sinks out there with a built-in towel rack on one side?
Alice says
Hooks on the back of the door for towels is a great place for towels when putting up a towel rack can’t happen due to lack of space. We put two hooks on each bathroom door and we hang our towels from them. The bedrooms each have two hooks behind the door for towels for when we have guests.
Andrea Haywood says
This is modern and fresh and you could hang your hand towels on it: https://www.build.com/product/summary/1689133?uid=4038383&jmtest=gg-gbav2_4038383&inv2=1&&source=gg-gba-pla_4038383!c6946989768!a79323946505!dc!ng&gclid=Cj0KCQiAyJOBBhDCARIsAJG2h5eteiw3W6n0k816ls2Nk_X6NDP4N40SVZkHhcgyCfCfcTqubF473d0aAkgFEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds
Also here’s a great blog post with lots of options: https://kelleynan.com/small-bathroom-vanity/
I also wonder how much improvement a little Rub-n-Buff would make on your plumbing pipe and sconce. It would be worth a try! The seeded glass on the sconce is really pretty. Good luck! It looks like a fun project.
Sara says
I would use a 24 in. vanity (wayfair has a dark blue) this would pop the space and has some storage paint light just a hint of blue. paint the mirror you have white, change out lighting to silver, silver towel bar to match lights. Just a thought
Sarah Hamilton says
We just did our mudroom and 2 bathrooms in Acura Max luxury vinyl tile 12×24. I wish I could take a picture for you. To me it looks very beachy! Easy install, easy maintenance.
Lanie says
I think I would do a pedestal sink and add a new mirror and floating shelves.
nancy grimsley says
That banjo countertop is actually a lazy susan cabinet that is designed for a corner in a kitchen. Personally I would rip that shower out as well as that entire cabinet. It looks like they didn’t know what they were doing. A pedestal sink will give you more room but less storage space for towels and such. Maybe turn the toilet in a different direction as well. I love the idea of sconces and there are some really great looking ones at the home improvement stores. The mirror is too big. It covers the entire receptacle. You have a lot of work with this one. But you always make everything beautiful. Can’t wait to see your progress.
christina says
I agree with pedestal sink. Ours has a small rim where I keep a simple human soap pump. Mirror round with a narrow rim. )Or put in a medicine cabinet that can hold bathroom essentials. Our bathroom has a very small shelf above the sink( 3″) to hold a tooth brush holder. I do hooks on the door for towels too. I really dislike towel rods, a waste of space in my opinion.
nancy grimsley says
One other thing. We used the Monrovia bath cabinet in white with grey and white marble top from Lowes. It has a slight rounded curve to it. Our bath was tight as well. You may want to check it out for your remodel. We are really happy with the results.
Tracey says
Could the toilet (replaced with a round bowl, not elongated) be turned so that it was along the short back wall? That would make that space seem much larger. (however, we are short as a family so we don’t need a ton of leg room). Having some decorative shelves for extra towels and bathroom supplies are always a good idea. (if you turned the toilet, you could have a small shelf either over the toilet or beside it for that stuff). You could do a rectangular sink (check out Ikea for inspiration); narrower profile, but still counter space for toiletries and many have reasonable storage space for a guest bath. We did this in our 1/2 bath and it made a HUGE difference. The vanity that was in there was enormous and unnecessary. The cabinet and extra countertop are too big for that space. I’d do a couple of hooks on the wall to the right of the sink for hanging towels and leave the shower as it’s fine for a guest bath (update the showerhead). Updated sconces and mirror (that doesn’t block the outlet) would be ok since you see that view framed in the door, but a light over the mirror would light the whole space better and be more modern. Good luck! I’m sure it will be awesome.
Ingrid says
I would consider installing one of those wall mounted floating sinks or pedestal to open up and balance out the space. If storage is needed, there is a space at the corner near the toilet that could support some tall storage or floating shelves. And if tiles are used for flooring replacement, I would use some accent and fun tiles and run them up the wall on the toilet side. There are so many fun ideas on the internet too 😉
https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/25-tiny-bathrooms-we-love-45821
Rebecca in MD says
Thanks for sharing your next project with us.
For the sink I would recommend replacing the current one with a small floating sink like this one https://www.wayfair.com/home-improvement/pdp/orren-ellis-azucena-31-wall-mounted-single-bathroom-vanity-set-w003095905.html?piid=1314339890. I also like the round mirror shown with this sink – – – simple and timeless. Floating sinks open up the space visually, and make cleaning the floor super easy.
We have a very small hall bath, and no linen closet, so we installed a wall mounted shelf above the toilet that has a shelf for towels and a bar for hanging hand towels. Here is a link to a similar one https://www.wayfair.com/Watqen–Wall-Mounted-Towel-Rack-BA7004-L6140-K~TQEN1601.html?refid=GX310364242739-TQEN1601&device=c&ptid=880753908673&network=g&targetid=pla-880753908673&channel=GooglePLA&ireid=110251520&fdid=1817&gclid=Cj0KCQiAyJOBBhDCARIsAJG2h5dXrCCmWSQ8h0ygjiqCqrirb5wzHpOkb_nCxcGigNwEQIcx0QOH9kgaAmz5EALw_wcB. The open shelf design helps things look uncluttered.
For the floor, instead of tile, plank “luxury vinyl” would look nice. We have a weathered, pale grey, which keeps the room light and bright and would go great with your Maine home. Here is the one we used https://www.homedepot.com/p/Lifeproof-Driftwood-Beach-8-7-in-W-x-47-6-in-L-Luxury-Vinyl-Plank-Flooring-20-06-sq-ft-case-I04229L/308338586. My husband found it very easy to install and we have found it to be very durable.
For the walls, I would recommend paint, no wallpaper or tile on the wall. I find that keeping small spaces neutral makes the space seem bigger. I would paint it your favorite white, or a very light blue, grey, or green.
Hope these ideas are helpful. Can’t wait to see what design you go with.
Katie says
I would get rid of that counter and go to a pedestal sink to open up the space and put shelves above the toilet for storage. I think my main goal would be to help the bathroom not feel so narrow and claustrophobic. I’m excited to see how it turns out!
Anne in VA says
I would get rid of the whole counter and replace with a pedestal sink. Some sort of narrow bench or table near the toilet could provide storage and a place to set toiletries. I think a light fixture with those large globe light bulbs would be a fun addition.
Can’t wait to see the final product!
Katy says
I suggest a standard size sink with a very small cabinet. They sell them that way and I wish I could send a picture. (wayfair has some cute ones just search sinks for small spaces) That way you have a little storage for extra TP etc. You would have space to the right of the toilet and above the toilet for towel shelves and towel hanging rack.
Once you get that sink with mini counter out of there you will have more space to work with.
A pedestal sink would open it up the most if you don’t need storage. And they have some very pretty ones. Even for simple designs they can look very nice.
Jayme says
I would definitely get rid of the vanity and replace the mirror. This maybe weird but I was IKEA a couple weeks ago and saw some really cute vanities that I told my hubby woyls be perfect in a little bathroom, They had a couple options that had more of a rectangle sink. I’m not really sure if your into knocking holes in the walls but maybe a sunk in area for towels between the studs? I’m excited to see what you do.
Sarah McKinney says
Loose the cabinet sink arrangement. Find a nice smaller depth sink and cabinet. New mirror and lighting. A new shower head. You do not need a hand held in that shower. You could add shelves wall to wall back of the toilet and baskets for towels and some decorative things. Nice to have space for the toilet paper and other things. We have bathrooms with no storage and have added it.
Gloria says
My suggestion: Use this bath exclusively for a week or more. Pretend you are a guest in your home. That should tell you what it needs. Looking at these pictures, the shower might need a recessed light in the ceiling to brighten up that corner. Another light (recessed or not if ceiling height allows) in the center of the ceiling? A hook on the door to hang a cushy robe?
I’m not a fan of towels hanging anywhere near a toilet….’cause germs. So a few hooks just outside the shower for bath towels?
A fun wallpaper could be great in here, but perhaps just on the sink wall. If not wallpaper, then definitely some cheeky art. And you’ll need a place to hide little surprises for your guests to find when they snoop through your storage!
Nancy says
What a great idea!
Connie says
They make narrow rectangular sinks for spaces like this. Second best would be pedestal sink. Will need towel bars or hooks somewhere.
I like sconce lights.
You could do a fun removable wallpaper.
Erica says
Last year, we put a navy blue cabinet in our powder room and I absolutely love it. It’s not available anymore, but here is something similar. https://www.lowes.com/pd/Design-Element-Marian-24-in-Single-Sink-Vanity-In-Blue/1002791174
I definitely think a smaller cabinet or pedestal sink is the way to go.
If you need more storage, I love this look above the toilet in a narrow bathroom.
https://www.thriftydecorchick.com/2020/05/lets-build-some-shelves-in-hour-with.html?m=1
Also if it’s practical in your space, I think a door is nicer than a curtain on a stand up shower stall and will help make the room feel bigger.
Kelly says
If you can’t move the toilet, I’d love to see shelves or a cabinet over the toilet. A pedestal sink (rectangular) will make the room seem bigger and new fixtures everywhere. Is the bath near the front hall? Why not echo the oil rubbed bronze in the star light fixture in your bathroom fixtures, handles, hooks, etc? Also, a similar tile to compliment the slate used in the front hall.
Julia A. says
We have a small bathroom like this. I tell people that you can sit on the toilet and brush your teeth and take a shower all at the same time. We put in a pedestal sink and put a shelving unit above the toilet. Also we put in a new medicine cabinet. My husband built a narrow, tall open cabinet that sits next to the toilet (we could add doors) to put towels in. It made the bathroom look a little bigger and we’ve got some in room storage.
KWS says
Put in a pedestal sink, then turn the toilet 90 degrees. Right now the person’s left leg jams into the wall and it look so uncomfortable. Alternatively you can center the toilet where it is with the little shelf thingy gone. Mount a cabinet with an open shelf on the bottom over the toilet so people using the bathroom have somewhere to put toiletries. Install an inside mount medicine cabinet (again, very handy for guest use since pedestal sinks have no counter space). Replace the sconces.
Jennifer B says
See if it’s possible to install a wall mounted toilet – that could give you the extra space you need to be able to rotate the toilet so it’s sitting on the long wall.
Then either a pedestal sink or a wall mounted one. I’d tear out the shower and redo that too.
Ashleah says
Is the mirror…. blocking that power outlet?!
Ashleah says
I’d probably go with a pedestal sink, and then shift the toilet a bit more centered on that wall and have an over-toilet cabinet for some out-of-the-way storage. Add a towel bar near the shower (to the left of the pedestal sink). I might add a door to the shower instead of just using a shower curtain.
Daria says
Another vote for a pedestal sink – they are tidy and will open up the space. Small shelves on the walls to hold toiletries, a few towels, and a spare roll of TP, or a small table for said toiletries et al would fit in well. You can always get a tasteful shower caddy for shower items and store them in there, too.
We remodeled the old bathroom in our old home. It was a 6×6 space, we had a corner toilet (would not recommend, but it was in decent shape and came with the place), pedestal sink, and a full bathtub with shower (we kept the tub but added a Silestone surround). We put up brand new water-safe sheet rock to replace paneling, and new tile flooring to replace ancient linoleum. We found a shiplap ceiling under the old ceiling tiles and kept that, painted white (like the walls) and put up trim to make it look nice, and installed a lighted exhaust fan (a must in any bathroom, imho). We put up a lighted medicine cabinet that opened (which did not cover any outlets) and a small storage shelf over the toilet. We had a freestanding toilet paper holder with a magazine rack built in. This was the one bathroom in our house and it was very utilitarian. This was an old house (1880) and the bathroom and laundry/mud rooms were off the kitchen – the towels lived on shelving in the laundry room.
Now we live in a house with 2 bathrooms, which is simply heavenly! It’s still an old house, and the best bathroom is again off the kitchen, but I can live with that!
Laura says
Haven’t seen anyone mention it yet, but I would put a wall mounted towel warmer right next to your shower since you have power and live in Maine. Also, if you can’t move the toilet, you can get a narrow cabinet (say 8-10 inches deep) for storage that fits next to the toilet. I got mine at Bed Bath and Beyond because we have a pedestal sink with no storage. It is super handy and holds all the stuff you need in the bathroom. I personally despise over the toilet storage things. They always look tacky to me. Maybe some floating shelves, but not those shelving units. Gag.
jane johnson says
I had a friend that installed this. It sure solved the clearance space problem. https://www.magnushomeproducts.com/products/harshaw-vitreous-china-wall-mount-bathroom-sink?variant=33003578687551&gclid=Cj0KCQiAyJOBBhDCARIsAJG2h5ebdBJC9oU29Aj-Oj9p8Q28BnOWW35-OzkYW1nWQ1luEDudk8DPlEAaAm3GEALw_wcB
Leslie says
That’s a great idea! love that sink
Lori Newhouse says
Definitely a wall sink opening up the floor area and some shelves for towels and such
Lana says
We have a silly counter like that in our vacation house except the toilet faces the sink and your knees are just about against the cupboard door when you are sitting there. And it is neon yellow Formica! But really I don’t care. It is downstairs where the kids always stayed when they were growing up and now they come with the grands. That awkward bathroom is a tradition now.
I vote for a pedestal sink, too. A great shelf with a row of hooks underneath would be useful in many ways and not take up too much space.
Lyra says
Pedestal or “floating” sink with a hutch/storage unit under – so many incredible options anymore. Is recessed lighting possible? If so, you might consider putting it all up on the ceiling. No wallpaper, because that’ll eventually get too wet and peel. With scones gone, you can do towel hangers there – or art, and hang towels lower. I loved the suggestion of a heated towel warmer for the shower too!
Looks like a SUPER fun project and no matter what you do, I’m sure it’ll be stunning. Looking forward to seeing what you go with. Still giggling from the first moment you said you were taking the winter off… <3
Sarah says
I’ve had a few small bathrooms and the pedestal sinks really open up a lot of space. Since it’s a guest bathroom a couple small shelves on the wall and hooks on the door will provide plenty of space for toiletries. A small caddy on the wall of the shower would be nice too. A couple tricks for tile… large rectangular tile will work if you run it lengthwise in the space or at a 45 to your wall. I’ve also done a 6×9 bath in white honeycomb tile and it made the space look larger.
Janet says
No pedestal sink. I got rid of mine as it was a dust magnet and a cleaning nightmare plus no storage.
For your bathroom I would go with ikea lillangen see link
I have the larger one and wish I had gone with this one now
https://www.ikea.com/us/en/p/lillangen-sink-cabinet-with-2-doors-white-ensen-faucet-s39294049/
Idaho girl says
Janet, that’s a great sink!
Tammy says
A pedestal sink would be perfect in here!
Here’s the funny thing: my daughter (almost 12) saw these pictures and said, “That’s so PRETTY! We should do that in our bathroom!” She was specifically talking about the counter and sink. Beauty IS in the eye of the beholder! LOL
MB says
Definitely a pedestal sink… new mirror with lights above the mirror. Hooks for towels on the back of the door and then a towel hook or ring left of the sink. As a very tall family (5’10”, 6’5″, etc) we are big fans of lots of toilet leg room! A little table or shelves by the toilet would be handy but not absolutely necessary. An accent wallpaper behind the toilet could be fun with neutral color on the other walls…This is a guest bathroom and I personally wouldn’t want to make guests TOO comfy at your retreat or they may overstay the three day rule 😉 and family won’t be fussed either way. Can’t wait to see what you do- love your aesthetic!
Elle says
The counter is dorky-it goes. Pedestal sink-perhaps a great color you love? Replace mirror with one you love and a lovely light above it. Put a towel rack on the back of the door-could be bar or could be multiple hooks. Nice loop style holder near the sink for hand towel. Narrow 10-12″ deep shelving unit next to the toilet-floor to ceiling, solid sides open front. Leave 2 shelves open for guest use. It’s a small space so I’d do some really fun tile on the floor 🙂
Cute towel rack: https://www.wayfair.com/home-improvement/pdp/rosecliff-heights-lorusso-wall-mounted-hook-rack-rclf2587.html
https://www.tileshop.com/products/annie-selke-aylin-blue-ceramic-floor-and-wall-tile-20-x-20-in-680873
Have fun! I know you’ll love it when you’re done.
Julie says
Based on the comments I’ve read (and my opinion), pedestal sink or floating sink would be the way to go. If your guests need shelf space you could add in some small floating shelves that would be big enough for travel toiletries or a very small bouquet. Regarding decoration – keep it Mavis style!!! White-on-white-on-white to keep it open and bright with accents of ocean and sky blues. And to make sure your guests feel welcome, decorate with one of your pottery ornaments!
Amanda Williams says
Definitely pedestal sink. Light paint with black hardware would give it a modern look. Can’t wait to see the finished project!
Jennifer Jo says
Pedestal sink. Trash the counters. A couple shelves.
Trish says
Repurpose an older sewing machine cabinet or narrow dresser as a vanity with top mounted sink and wall mounted faucet. Hang a large circular mirror over the sink with a barn wall sconce above it. Open shelving over the toilet. Hooks on wall to right of shower (opening side). Pebble tile throughout for a spa feel. Shiplap on the walls?
Leslie Moss says
Try this idea, for tile and paint https://vintagerevivals.com/my-best-tiling-tips-and-tricks/
(your paint color of choice,of course) and move over the plug by the mirror. It needs a big round mirror in there to off set how boxy the room is. And like everyone else said, a pedestal sink is perfect. I like the ones that have metal legs, but they are pricey for some reason. It will all turn out! Tough design situations often are the best fun!
Claudia says
Have you considered a wall mount sink? Easy to clean under and it makes it look more spacious.
Diana says
Since it’s a small space, check out the ideas at IKEA. Don’t they have a store near you where you and Heather could make a road trip? Boston, maybe? They always have fabulous ideas for small spaces that tuck in storage as well.
I would definitely get rid of the vanity and change out the flooring, mirror and lights. As for the toilet, while I like the idea of walking in and taking a quick seat, it just seems that it should be along the long wall.
Since the bath won’t get used much, you could keep the shower like it is but that’s what’s causing the issues with the crazy countertop, lol. That wall jutting out seems awkward and a waste of space. I hate taking showers in a tiny stall (I had a 30″ one about 25 years ago and it made me crazy) and if it were me, I’d change it to a bigger one to make your guests more comfortable. Yeah, there’ll be ‘major’ construction, but I’d rather do it all at once then at some point down the road…
My 2 cents, lol…
Diana says
Plus, if you changed the shower, you could get your creative on and do it up right – with tile instead of an ugly plastic thing. 🙂
Bea says
I’m going against the flow of votes for a pedestal sink installation! Never again will I want a pedestal sink. I agree it opens up the space for a better view, but it’s not useful to whoever will be using it for more than a one time quick bathroom break. You will need to find storage outside the bathroom for extra TP and cleaning brush, extra washrags, etc. Where would your mom and dad (who would stay for several days) put their shaving bag kit, makeup bag, hair dryer, or other essentials? Putting said items on the floor or toilet lid is discusting, having to put my stuff in my suitcase or in a dresser drawer after each use is not appealing. What if your guest needs to lean on the sink to help themself up from the toilet? A friend had to pick their mother in law off the floor when the sink part gave way. For a spacious look it will look good, but for practical use it’s not. I feel my guests would think their comfort was not important, but my bathroom view was. I’m so glad to have a small counter and a couple of drawer now.
Leslie says
A wall mounted sink might be nice in his bathroom. Keeps the floor totally open. Unless your pipes come through the floor..
Jenny says
While in the minority on this one, I would go with a small sink/cabinet combo. I had a pedestal sink in a small bathroom and hated it. There was no storage for anything – like toilet bowl cleaner, extra rolls of TP, items that guests might need, etc. If you go with pedestal sink, you will need to storage space anyway. Why not have your sink serve dual purposes?
Carrie says
My favorite trick for TP storage with a pedestal sink was to use an old paper towel holder next to the toilet – it easily held 3 rolls and was accessible but understated and tucked into the smallest of spaces.
HollyG says
There are some great, little vessel sinks (square, round) shown on IG. They are on very simple wall mounted shelves. If you do something like that to get rid of the counter extensions, you could put a shallow built in next to and around the toilet, taking up the whole end wall. If you keep it simple and white you could have storage without visual clutter.
HollyG says
https://www.instagram.com/p/CLH4w8JHgy8/?igshid=u3wlooc64mq9
https://www.instagram.com/p/CK6Qw8cJsjU/?igshid=1tdiwrjmsrt2g
Jeanine says
Ok….I guess I have to chime in….I noticed the door swings out into the hall. Towel hooks on door may not work. Also, the idea of someone leaning on the sink to help themselves up from the toilet is no joke. I know a gal that broke the sink at a motel trying to get up from the toilet…totally an embarrassing moment for sure. But you need a narrower mirror and maybe spray paint the light fixtures black. A narrow cabinet with sink would be okay. Whale hooks near the shower for bath towels and maybe some wallpaper behind toilet with whales on it or maybe lobsters. That might be fun. Glass floating shelves above toilet. Floor could be dark blue.
Debbie M says
Here are my thoughts
pedestal sink thats not too wide would be perfect – I suggest a cabinet for storage over the toilet painted white with black hardware -remove the sconces or use black metal sconces but my favorite would be replacing the sconces with pendant lighting and replace the mirror with a larger mirror my preference would be a round mirror
paint the walls white – our hardware store suggested we use exterior paint on the walls in the bathroom – we tried it and it worked out great!
Go with the black and white color scheme – add some colorful framed prints
Hawaii Planner says
Pedestal sink, for sure! I think it will really change the look of the space.
Karin says
Definitely a pedestal sink. That will open up the space a bit. Then maybe some shelves to the left and right above the sink height. If there isn’t space for the shelves there then maybe above the toilet.
Rebecca says
I once saw a narrow sink in a Japanese restaurant on a long narrow cabinet. It was sideways with a faucet on the side and water flowing like a fountain. It had beautiful artwork. Cabinet was about 1′ deep and 10′ long. I would cover the shower, maybe bamboo or Shoji screen.
Carrie says
oh wow – that vanity needs to go! I love pedestal sinks, but if it is also your (overnight) guest bathroom it would be important to have some storage for basics like a toothbrush or hair dryer so maybe a compact vanity with a couple of drawers? I don’t love storage over the toilet, so easy to look cluttered and crowd a space in with visual bulk up at eye height and not super accessible for some guests.
I’m a huge fan of hooks instead of towel bars for bath towels, you’d be able to fit a few in the compact space between the sink and shower – add some flare with something like your whale tails from the old mud room?
Idaho girl says
Agree with the towel hooks! Much easier to use than a rod. Takes up less space, and can double as a bathrobe hook!
Heather says
I echo trying to fit a vanity in there if possible instead of a pedestal sink. Pedestals look nice, but I’ve stayed as a guest in homes with them, and there’s no place to set down a bottle of moisturizer or a hair dryer when you’re getting ready. A vanity with even a little extra counter space would be handy. A narrow, tall storage shelf to the left of the toilet would disguise the fact that the toilet will look off center once the old countertop is ripped out.
Kitty says
I’d go with a euro style wall mount toilet and switch to the cabinet wall. If that’s an option. They’re roughly 21-22″ bowl depth. Elongated toilets are roughly 32″ from the wall. Give yourself 36″ on width.
For the cabinet if find a local shop and have them build you a new cabinet in the dimensions that best fit your space for length and width.
Another option could be put the sink where the shower is. The shower on the toilet wall and the toilet where the sink is.
If it were me I’d draw blue prints cout out the fixtures and play around with the layout
Nancy Kneuer says
I see that many people have recommended a pedestal sink, but I have to give that a No vote. Pedestal sinks have no storage, not even a place for an extra roll of toilet paper. They also have no space for guests to store their toothbrush, hairbrush, etc. I think a small sink and vanity is much more practical. Other commenters have noted that Wayfair has some attractive options. Just my two cents.
Linda says
I’m in the pedestal sink camp! Looking forward to the finished bathroom reveal!
Linda says
I would remove that entire sink/cupboard installation. Paint the walls the same color white as the rest of your house, tile the floor to match the hallway (that it opens onto?), Get a much taller mirror to hang above either a pedestal sink, or a small rectangle. I would get rid of the white hand held shower thing and put in a nice regular shower head. Since the electrical is already there, just get new wall hung lights, or else you are going to need to patch the drywall holes and you will always be seeing the outline of the holes. I would check out anything you need to buy on Build.com. We renovated our home and bought all plumbing items from them. They offer free shipping if you spend over , I think it is , $200. We bought toliets, sinks, faucets, lights, hardware pulls, etc. Great quality and prices are exeptional. I like some kind of towel bar for the wall, so that towels can hand on pegs or hooks, as noone at our house can ever seem to fold a towel in half and hand nicely over a towel bar.. Your husband can probably make one with a piece of nice wood with hooks that you like on it. Good luck, fun project
Deb says
Round brass wall mount sink. The color and size will deflect from it jutting from the wall. Brass accents for shower and door and use rich colors and patterns on wall deep green and black.
Rory says
It’s pretty hideous, cabinet wise. But as the owner of a 1920 home with one small full bath and one tiny half-bath, i covet storage. My half bath has a wall-mounted sink with a skirt so I can hid stuff under there, like extra TP, cleaning supplies. I think about getting pedestal sink, but then the only place to put stuff is in our tiny hall closet, which is ostensibly for coats.
If you don’t need storage in bathroom, maybe a pedestal sink would be nice. I’m not crazy about cabinets over toilet. Maybe a shelf or two
I also adore tile. So I’d pick my floor and wall tile first. but if you are just going with simple white, then you could go nuts with the walls.
We have a ‘comfort-height’ toilet in main bath and it is wonderful.
Linda Practical Parsimony says
pedestal sink, Turn the commode and place on wall by sink, round mirror, different lights, light over shower, wall cabinet for extra tp or so guest can use open bottom shelf, small stool to sit and dress (thinking older persons), grab bar since you are working on this, love the handheld shower, towel bar or ring next to sink and between shower, maybe a shelf next to shower for towels, hooks on doors.
I saw wallpaper with gigantic flowers. I would love that on the one long wall. But, probably not your style. Is there a vent for moisture?
I had a bathroom in a house built in 1902 where I sat on the commode and could put my head on the clawfoot club when I was ill and could reach the sink and get water in a glass. I used the clawfoot tub to rise from the commode.
Get a tall commode for your new bathroom. A bar across from the commode in your bathroom as well as one beside the commode would help someone like me with knee and back problems.
Vivian says
Definitely a pedestal sink and a cabinet behind the toilet for towels and cleaning supplies. Also , if you are considering a toilet replacement, I would suggest one of the taller 16” toilets. They are so great! When we bought this house 17 years ago, we put them in and really appreciate them in our older years. We have a shower like yours. Not a fan. Very claustrophobic.
Em says
You might search for “wall hung sink” and see if you like any of those. I got one for my small bathroom and I feel like I have some extra space now. I got the American Standard “Ravenna” model. It also comes in a pedestal version.
Amelia says
Maybe a Euro vanity. They come in a wide range of price points
https://www.wayfair.com/home-improvement/sb1/euro-bathroom-vanities-c527058-a73524~430342.html
Cathy says
I like a small gray vanity with drawers. If you buy pedestal vanity you would need a separate unit for storage, which may take up too much space. Then I like subway tile half way up the wall with a decorative strip of gray glass marble tile to match. I would leave the gray painted upper half wall. I don’t like that wall shelf at all and I hope you get rid of it. I like the mirror but would put lights on top – a strip of 3 or 4 lights.
Amy W says
Hi Mavis!
What a weird layout they left you!
* Pedestal sink
* Towel bars or hooks on the wall opposite the sink (closer to door than toilet). (Not on back of door since it opens out.)
* Tall shelving system to the right of the sink (very shallow- 8” deep) so that guests have somewhere to set their toiletries and for TP storage. If not a full shelving system, then 2-3 wide shelves.
* Statement mirror since it is visible from hallway. The lighting will be dictated by the shape and style of the mirror.
* Use a shower curtain to conceal shower (if color doesn’t work with your design choices).
Can’t wait to see how it turns out! 🙂
Mary Legates says
Add a wee window if possible – all that corrosion means moisture. Walk-in shower. Sliding barn door to maximize every available inch. Glad you chose tile.
Rynda Gregory says
-Pedestal sink
-New – “statement” mirror
-Keep the scones but change the hardware for it – something in a flat, darker metal
-Hand towel hook near the sink
-Towel hooks near shower. I envision a weathered piece of wood running vertically, with hooks off-set
-Agree with limited need for “storage” – build floating shelves above toilet that run width of wall to wall – plenty of space for guest towel and a small basket with extra TP in it
Cecile says
I would do a sink like this: https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/113293746852777940/ and put floating shelves on the wall beside the shower and beside the toilet since people will need a place to put their bathroom items when they visit. I would get a nice drift wood or reed basket and put extra towels in it beside the shower and sink
MB says
I would do a Floating vanity
https://www.wayfair.com/home-improvement/pdp/union-rustic-rachal-25-wall-mount-single-bathroom-vanity-set-w002136927.html
Lay some ‘Statement’ tile
Light colored walls since this is a small space
Spruce up with new fixtures, mirror and lighting
Emily says
Remove the counter and put in a pedestal sink for sure. Consider one of the combination mirror/medicine cabinets for storage above the sink and or floating shelves/cabinet over the toilet.
The memories of spending our first few weeks as home owners removing the enthusiastically pasted wallpaper from our home makes me never want to with that chore on anyone else. If you really want a pattern on the wall I would either pick a stencil or use the peal and stick removable wallpaper.
Kathleen Williamson says
I would go with a pedestal sink. White paint definitely for the walls and ceiling. Over the toilet, I would put floating shelves with just a couple baskets or wooden boxes for toiletries. For lighting, I would put a ceiling fixture, maybe a short pendulum one. Something that would go with the other light fixtures in the other rooms. I would put towel hook(s) (loved the whale hooks at the last house ; )) on the skinny wall next to the shower and another hook for a hand towel on the wall on the toilet side of the sink. I would put tile in for the flooring. Light and bright. The space is small, but keeping it simple will make it feel bigger and is more your style.
Anne says
I just stayed at a house as a guest in the guest bathroom. The big thing is somewhere to put your toothbrush, cosmetic bag, hair dryer, so you need some place around the sink and mirror. So I vote for hanging sink and then underneath maybe a rustic Bench. You can put all your stuff there while you’re getting ready in front of the mirror. This is key to have it in front of the mirror. All the other stuff is whatever you like cosmetically.
Gigi says
Let me chime in about the sconces. If you replace them, you need to pull out the junction boxes behind them. Code doesn’t allow boxes to be covered with drywall or hidden. So, you’d need to put a blank cover over the top and that looks awkward. (Electrical engineer here)
Sconces give better light for illuminating a face. You hit both sides and the illumination is pretty even. (Think about those awful hotel rooms that only have the light above when you’re trying to do makeup. )
Karen says
I agree on the better light from sconce lighting!
Kathie says
I would gut that entire bathroom and turn it into a laundry room. i’d tear down as much of the walls on the side where you walk in to get as much of an open concept as possible, while keeping enough of the wall to hide the laundry machines. it’s a linear space and laundry machines and cabinets would go better in that space as they are more linear too. i would then convert the existing laundry room you have (since it already has plumbing) into the guest bathroom – given that your current laundry space is a more appropriate space for a bathroom and that it would be functional in that you wouldn’t have guests wandering around your house and through rooms you don’t want them in to get to it.
if it’s not an option to switch the rooms, i’d switch out that counter/sink thing with the smallest vanity you can find, with the smallest pedestal as the space is small and there’s no room aesthetically for a huge vanity or counter top. if it’s a guest bathroom, there’s no need for anyone to stay too long in there or have a need for a big counter top. i’d find someone in your community that is a professional and see if they’d offer any opinions on what to do about not having enough space to switch the toilet around onto the other wall as there may be some options you’re not aware of that they would be. Last, since the space is so small and you have a door, i’d get rid of the door and put up some barn doors or other type of door that slides and recesses instead of swinging into the space.
Jamie says
Pedestal sink to give you more room – small shelves or cabinet above the toilet for storage. Update lights and a bigger mirror to make the bathroom seem larger than it is.
Andrea says
This is a weird idea but my dad was a plumber. I would go with a tankless toilet if your house water pressure could handle it. It would free up space, save money on water and make the bathroom less awkward.
Vy says
I agree with the pedestal sink, it will open that whole area up. Storage can be baskets (yay more baskets!) and open shelves. As it’s a small space, you can be pretty dramatic with one element. I’d put up wainscoting around the bottom and then a statement wallpaper or color on the top half. Have fun!
Dianne says
I also agree with the pedestal sink. I don’t keep my toiletries in anyone’s bathroom while I am staying with them! Get rid of that mirror and sconces. Replace mirror with small square mirror and put up wall mount light above the sink and light in shower ceiling. If you go with a pedestal sink and turn the toilet, you can have a towel bar where the toilet use to sit. Maybe even put a small shelve above the towel bar. I’m really excited to see what you do with the space. You have good taste!
Lori says
It is a small tight space so her is what I would do. I would get rid of the banjo counter top and sink cabinet and go with a pedestal sink. You will have no extra storage but it’s for company. I would replace the sconces with something beachy looking. With boat rope, anchors on it, sea glass, etched glass with fish, etc.. the toilet nothing to change here. Flooring I would go with a small tile size. Something white with blue accent. Again with the ocean theme. I can’t wait to see what you do.
Lea says
Geepers – I thought our bathroom was small! At least it’s a “normal” rectangle.
Pedestal sink – get rid of that weird counter top entirely!
Flat, smaller mirror.
A floating shelf below or next to the mirror to hold necessities – if it’s a guest bath a basket on the toilet tank with a few travel size necessities (toothpaste, shampoo, etc.) and towels should be enough outside of the necessary hand soap. A spare roll or two of TP in the corner by the toilet under a cover of some kind (they sell what looks like a facial tissue box that holds three rolls at bed-bath stores).
Hooks on the wall by the shower for shower towels and a hand towel on the other side.
Hooks on the back of the door for clothes, robe, etc.
There’s my 2-cents!
I can’t wait to see what you do – no matter what, it’ll be lovely!
Lea
Andrea says
We have a nutty half bath Wich is basically a half circle. There was a pedestal sink in it, but it took up too much room. We ended up buying this very low profile sink that fits the space much better. Not sure it would work for this bathroom, but here is the link if you’d like to see it. https://www.wayfair.com/home-improvement/pdp/joss-main-knighten-17-single-bathroom-vanity-set-w004243431.html
Jen Buck says
I think if you could find a small antique dresser, cut a hole in the top and insert a sink—it would look beautiful. I really disliked the pedestal sink we had in our downstairs bathroom in our old house. We did the antique dresser with the sink laid in the top—in our master bedroom and it turned out beautifully. Because of the way the plumbing was run we actually had two drawers for storage for towels and toiletries.
Amlia says
great idea
maybe local artisan created bowl for sink
Candice says
Hi Mavis,
Wow-the banjo top. I used to do kitchen and bathroom design and I have never seen one with the banjo on both sides! I am not a huge fan of pedestal sinks, but that is really just personal preference. It might be worth your while to sit down with a bath designer. Even if you were to do it at a big box store. This is usually a free service, but sometimes they charge a fee, which is deducted if or when you buy products from them. You can also use Houzz and Pinterest to look up ideas for small, narrow bathrooms, which you might want to do whether or not you decide to sit with a designer or not. For the lighting-do you have access to the attic above this bathroom? You could keep the sconces and add a few recessed lights, if you do. Use the 4 in diameter lights if you decide to go that route. Good luck with your project! I look forward to seeing the finished room!
Candice says
One more thing-I don’t care for pedestal sinks because there is no place for storage or to sit anything on the sink, such as toiletries or a hair dryer if using one. Howeever, the main reason I don’t like them is that you will most likely be able to see the plumbing behind the leg part of the sink. This drives me crazy! I don’t want to be able to see the mechanical workings of a sink, especially when I open the door to the room. Anyway, good luck!
Tammy says
The main problem is the counter top. I would cut back everything to the vanity. I would paint the countertop and the restrain or paint the vanity. Then put bead board and chair rail on wall to extend the wall visually. If mirror can’t be moved to show plug I would then replace. Would keep lights painting the bases. Paint everything white or light. Towel rack back of door and mounted on side of vanity for hand towel. Moisture proof wood looking flooring or tile.
Karen says
Turn the toilet if possible onto the long wall. Get a new shower as well. Notice the wall next to the shower? Is it a false wall just to fill in space next to the shower? Maybe it can be removed and a larger tiled shower put in. Good Luck, can’t wait to see the finished room!
Sara says
Pedestal sink…put some small shelves in the recessed area next to the shower for towels, soaps, shampoo etc to minimize the need for anything additional in that bathroom area….
Ashley B says
The countertop edge doesn’t match the top and I find it visually unappealing. I dont mind the weird layout or counter. I wonder if a new countertop that looks more finished would make the space look more completed. Then add tiles that work with the countertop for a higher end look. The mirror has a unique shape, if you went square or rectangular I think it would be a more updated look as well.
Sunny says
We have a toilet in our tiny bathroom that fits in the corner…the tank is triangle shaped. You might look into that and what space/options it would provide.
Lisa says
Love your sharing as you go… I had pretty much the exact bathroom in a previous home I owned. Lessons I learned where: 1) DON’T DO A PEDESTAL SINK. You will regret getting rid of the storage. 2) do get rid of the ridiculously slim counter, it’s outdated, ugly and really serves any purpose. 3) Add attractive storage or open shelves to both left and right of sink and behind (upwards) of the toilet.
To summarize > under sink cabinet stays. Stupid slim counter goes and make use of heighted wall space and behind toilet. Wish I had photos to share but I never thought I’d see a bathroom like that again so didn’t bother x
Annette L. says
You have some fun choices to make with this project. Here’s a sink vanity that we have used in several bathrooms and like it. Basically a pedestal style sink bowl with small cabinet.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/Style-Selections-Euro-25-in-Gray-Single-Sink-Bathroom-Vanity-with-White-Cultured-Marble-Top/1000607089
I would rotate the toilet 90 degrees with the tank to the door wall if possible.
Removing the long vanity countertop would allow space for a small shelving/storage unit to the left of the sink. Or possibly open up space between wall studs and build small shelving inside.
Simple paint, neutral tiles and quirky light fixtures would be a great way to finish this off.
Carol says
In a former bathroom remodel in a small, narrow space, we put a built-in sink in a corner. That really freed up space. But the best thing we did was build a cupboard with a very narrow footprint. To enlarge the interior space we built it into the wall. Because of the way walls are framed, you have some added space between the walls that can be used.
Jennifer says
I would get a wall mounted sink, no storage cabinet. It should create a feeling of space. If the mirror isn’t already an insert with storage space, maybe consider getting one. I would add some shelves or a cabinet over the toilet for storage. Maybe add a towel rack for the shower if there aren’t already hooks behind the door.
Good luck! There’s a lot of potential here.
Paula Schuler says
1, pedestal sink
2, New mirror and lighting, sconces?
3, new floor.
4, new towel bar, toilet paper holder etc.
5, shelving over toilet, not a cabinet.
6. Wall paper or bold color
7. Take the shower curtain to the ceiling, makes ceiling feel higher. ( Hopefully the is a light in the shower ceiling.
Can’t wait for pictures
Julie says
It’s too bad you can’t switch the vanity and the toilet.