Small Bathroom Renovations Sydney | Space Saving Bathroom Ideas

Small Bathroom Ideas for Units in Sydney

Aussie Home Renovations / Blog

Living in a Sydney unit often means working with a small bathroom, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style or functionality. With the right design choices, you can create a modern, space-efficient bathroom that feels open and inviting. Whether you’re renovating an apartment in the Eastern Suburbs, a unit in Parramatta, or a studio in the Inner West, these small bathroom ideas will help you make the most of every centimetre.

1. Choose a Smart Bathroom Layout

The key to a great small bathroom renovation is choosing a layout that maximises space. Here are some popular layouts for Sydney apartments:

Corner Showers – A walk-in shower with a frameless glass screen keeps the space open while saving room.
Wall-Mounted Toilets – Installing an in-wall cistern toilet frees up floor space and creates a streamlined look.
Floating Vanities – Wall-hung vanities make the floor visible, creating an illusion of more space.
Pocket or Sliding Doors – Standard doors take up too much space, so consider sliding doors to improve flow.

2. Use Light Colours & Large Tiles

Colour choice plays a huge role in making a small bathroom feel bigger. Light, neutral colours such as white, soft grey, and beige help reflect light, making the room appear larger.
For tiles, large-format options reduce grout lines and create a seamless finish. Consider:
Glossy white or light-coloured tiles to reflect natural light
Large floor tiles to create an open, flowing effect
Vertical or horizontal subway tiles to add height or width to the space

3. Install Space-Saving Fixtures

When renovating a small bathroom in a Sydney unit, every fixture needs to be carefully chosen to make the most of the available space.

Walk-In Showers – A frameless shower screen or a curved corner shower prevents a boxed-in feel.
Compact Toilets – An in-wall cistern or back-to-wall toilet helps keep things sleek.
Slimline Vanities – Opt for a narrow vanity with built-in storage to save space.
Small Bathtubs – If you love baths, consider a compact freestanding tub to fit in tight spaces.

4. Maximise Storage Without Cluttering

Storage is key in a small bathroom. Instead of bulky cupboards, use:
Recessed Shelves – Built into the shower wall for a clean, modern look.
Floating Shelves – Perfect for holding bathroom essentials without taking up floor space.
Mirror Cabinets – Combines storage with a mirror to serve two purposes in one.

Keeping surfaces clear makes your bathroom feel larger and less cluttered.

5. Improve Lighting & Ventilation

Proper lighting and ventilation can transform a small bathroom renovation in Sydney.
LED Strip Lighting – Under-vanity lights or backlit mirrors create a stylish and spacious feel.
Maximise Natural Light – If possible, install a frosted window or skylight to brighten up the room.
Exhaust Fans – Essential in Sydney apartments where bathrooms often lack direct airflow.

A well-lit bathroom feels bigger and prevents issues like mould and dampness, which are common in older Sydney units.

6. Budgeting for a Small Bathroom Reno in Sydney

Renovating a small bathroom doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s a rough idea of Sydney bathroom renovation costs:
Budget Bathroom Reno: $10,000 – $15,000 (basic upgrades, affordable materials)
Mid-Range Reno: $15,000 – $25,000 (quality finishes, custom vanity, frameless shower screen)
Luxury Bathroom: $25,000+ (premium tiles, underfloor heating, high-end fittings)

To save money, consider:
Keeping the existing layout to avoid moving plumbing
Using high-quality but affordable tiles instead of designer brands
Opting for a pre-made vanity instead of a custom-built unit

7. Sydney Strata Rules for Bathroom Renovations

If you live in a Sydney apartment, you may need strata approval before starting your bathroom renovation. Generally, you’ll need approval for:

Waterproofing – Ensuring compliance with Australian standards
Plumbing & Drainage Changes – Moving pipes or major alterations
Tiling & Structural Work – Removing walls or making significant changes

Always check with your strata manager before making changes to avoid delays.

8. Final Thoughts on Small Bathroom Renovations in Sydney

Renovating a small bathroom in a Sydney unit unit comes with challenges, but with the right design, it can feel modern, spacious, and practical. By choosing space saving layouts, light colours, smart storage, and compact fixtures, you can create a functional and stylish bathroom even in a tight space. Need help with your bathroom renovation in Sydney? Get in touch with our team here at Aussie Bathroom Renovations, let's start planning your dream bathroom today.

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