Small bathroom with a bathtub – ideas and arrangements that really work

In this guide, we present three tried-and-tested layouts for small bathrooms with a bathtub and show you how to make clever use of space to combine functionality, aesthetics and everyday comfort. Perfect inspiration if you want to design a small bathroom but can't imagine life without a long, relaxing soak. In the article you'll find inspiring products and solutions for small bathrooms. It's worth adding that even a bathroom in a block of flats can be functionally arranged as a small bathroom with a bathtub.

📌 Table of contents:

• 1. Small bathrooms and their features
• 2. Is a bathtub in a small bathroom a good idea?
• 3. How to fit a bathtub into a small space?
• 4. Marella - a bathtub for a very small bathroom
• 5. Layout 1: A narrow bathroom with a wall-mounted bathtub (e.g. Lila 2.0)
• 6. Layout 2: A small bathroom with an asymmetric corner bathtub
• 7. Layout 3: A small bathroom with a bathtub and a shower screen – the "2 in 1" option
• 8. How to visually enlarge a small bathroom with a bathtub?
• 9. A bathroom with a bathtub as the heart of the home
• 10. The most common mistakes when designing a small bathroom with a bathtub

📝 Summary:

• A bathtub can work brilliantly even in a very small bathroom — the key is choosing the right model.
• A narrow wall-mounted bathtub, an asymmetric corner model or a set with a shower screen all make functional solutions. Contrary to appearances, even a small bathroom with a bathtub can be comfortable and attractive if you plan it well.
• LED mirrors, bright light and compact washbasins help to visually enlarge the interior.
• Excellent's acrylic bathtubs offer durability, comfort and a wide variety of models for small spaces. Other products dedicated to small bathrooms are also available on the market, making it easier to arrange a functional bathing zone.

Small bathrooms and their features

Designing a small bathroom is a real challenge, but also a chance to create an interior that impresses with its functionality and comfort. In a small bathroom, every centimetre counts, which is why it's so important to think through the layout of all the elements at the design stage. Careful planning of circulation within the bathroom is essential – it ensures convenient access to all sanitary fixtures and has a major impact on the functionality and ergonomics of the space. A key role here is played by the bathtub – a well-chosen one can become not just a place to relax, but also a practical everyday solution.

Both compact freestanding bathtubs and corner or rectangular models work brilliantly in small bathrooms, allowing you to make the most of the available space. Thanks to a well-thought-out layout, a small bathroom with a bathtub can combine ease of use with good looks. It's worth choosing solutions that highlight the room's functionality while providing everyday comfort for the whole household. The right choice of fixtures and accessories will turn even the smallest bathroom into a cosy, practical relaxation zone.

Is a bathtub in a small bathroom a good idea?

Definitely yes — as long as you choose the right model and plan the layout of the room well. A bathtub isn't just about bathing comfort, it's also a practical solution for families with children and for anyone who wants to combine relaxation with functionality. For families with small children or older people, it's worth looking at models with a low entry threshold or extra grab handles, which increase safety and ease of use.

Importantly, manufacturers now offer a wide range of compact bathtubs, including shorter, narrower, wall-mounted or asymmetric models, which make it possible to arrange even a small space ergonomically. Which bathtub works best in a small bathroom? It's best to choose models with small dimensions and a well-thought-out shape that make the most of the available floor area.

How to fit a bathtub into a small space?

The following work best in small bathrooms:

• rectangular bathtubs measuring 140–160 cm - a rectangular bathtub is a versatile solution that's easy to fit into most layouts, and its compact size allows for comfortable use even in a small space,

• wall-mounted models, which combine the look of a freestanding bathtub with space-saving benefits,

• corner bathtubs — ideal for tricky room layouts, especially in a bathroom corner, they offer functionality and let you make optimal use of every centimetre,

• asymmetric bathtubs, whose irregular shapes make them easy to fit into a bathroom corner or an unusual recess.

Asymmetric models and corner bathtubs can easily be fitted into a bathroom corner, while a rectangular bathtub can be placed under a window, making optimal use of the available space and natural light.

The market offers various bathtub models that increase comfort and ergonomics of use, especially in small bathrooms. Freestanding bathtubs can also be used in small interiors – a well-chosen freestanding bathtub will work even in a limited space. It's worth looking at the available whirlpool options, which increase bathing comfort. Shower trays can be an alternative to, or complement, the bathing zone, especially in 2-in-1 solutions where the shower tray also acts as part of the shower enclosure. Bathtubs can also be finished with mosaic tiling, which highlights the aesthetics and durability of the bathing zone.

Matching the bathtub to the layout of the walls allows you to make the most of the space, while good bathtub ergonomics guarantee everyday comfort. Proportions matter in a small bathroom – using mirrors, light colours and appropriate lighting visually enlarges the space and gives the interior depth. Convenient solutions such as a bath screen effectively protect the bathroom from splashing during a bath, allow you to use both the bath and the shower, and can even replace a shower enclosure in a small bathroom.

If durability and easy upkeep matter to you, it's worth choosing Excellent's acrylic bathtubs. They're made entirely of sanitary acrylic, have a securely reinforced base, feel warm to the touch, resist discolouration, and any scratches can be renewed over time. Models with a matte finish are also available, giving the bathroom a more contemporary character. You can also order a bespoke bathroom design tailored to your needs from the list of available fixtures. Excellent even offers a 20-year guarantee on the colour durability of the acrylic coating. It's worth considering different ways of installing bathtubs and fittings – a faucet or shower head can be mounted on a rail, which increases functionality and comfort of use, especially in small spaces. Some solutions work particularly well in small bathrooms, combining functionality with good looks. For users' safety, it's worth fitting a non-slip floor, which increases comfort and safety in the bathroom's wet zone.

Marella - a bathtub for a very small bathroom

For very small bathrooms, where it's hard to find room for a standard bathtub, compact models such as our Marella bathtub, 100 × 70 cm, work well. This solution is designed to make maximum use of limited space – its small dimensions allow it to be installed even in studio flats or bathrooms with an unusual layout. A practical feature of this model is the overflow located on the short side of the bathtub, which makes it easier to fit the plumbing and gives greater design freedom. In addition, the flat rim can double as a handy shelf for toiletries, while the sanitary acrylic construction ensures durability, easy cleaning and everyday comfort of use.

Layout 1: A narrow bathroom with a wall-mounted bathtub (e.g. Lila 2.0)

Wall-mounted bathtubs work best in narrow bathrooms – they look freestanding but can be placed directly against the wall, saving valuable walkway space. The Lila 2.0 model is a perfect example — visually light, stylish and minimalist, yet practical for everyday use.

Why does it work?

• The bathtub doesn't "eat into" the space, but forms a natural line along the wall.

• Its shape helps maintain freedom of movement at the narrowest point of the bathroom.

• It can be paired with an elegant wall-mounted faucet — for example from the Pi, Delta Pi or Keria ranges. A bath faucet isn't just a practical fixture, but also an important finishing detail that highlights the bathroom's style. Depending on the model chosen, a bath faucet can complete an industrial, elegant or minimalist arrangement, giving the interior a coherent character.

Also great in this kind of layout are compact bathroom washbasins and bright LED mirrors, which brighten the interior and create a sense of spaciousness. The bathroom's style can be enhanced with black accents, which, combined with white tiles, create a striking, elegant contrast and add character to the arrangement.

Layout 2: A small bathroom with an asymmetric corner bathtub

Corner bathtubs are among the most practical solutions for small bathrooms — especially those with a square or irregular layout. Thanks to their asymmetric shape, they provide a larger bathing surface while taking up less space.

It's worth considering a model with a seat, which increases comfort and functionality, especially for older people or families with children.

Why is it worth it?

• They fill the corner of the room perfectly, which is often hard to use functionally.

• They make it easier to arrange the remaining fixtures — toilet, cabinets, washbasin.

• They suit both classic and modern designs.

Completing such a bathroom with a minimalist LED mirror (e.g. Corido or Lumiro) and a compact countertop washbasin (e.g. Luqa, Cori 2.0) will give you a coherent, light overall look.

Layout 3: A small bathroom with a bathtub and a shower screen – the "2 in 1" option

If your bathroom needs to accommodate both a place to bathe and a functional shower — the best choice is a bathtub with a shower screen. This is the ideal solution for small bathrooms that don't have room for a separate enclosure.

Advantages of this solution:

• space saving,

• freedom — you can take a quick shower or a relaxing bath,

• a modern look if you choose a screen with a minimalist design.

In addition, a bath screen effectively protects the bathroom from splashing while using the bathtub, helping to keep things tidy and preventing damage to the floor.

Excellent's range includes many models of bath screens — classic, folding, single-panel or with glass featuring an easy-clean coating. It's the perfect way to create a practical bathing zone even in a small bathroom.

How to visually enlarge a small bathroom with a bathtub?

The right layout can work wonders. To visually enlarge the room, use:

• Large LED mirrors

Models such as Corido, Revia, Lumiro and Virro reflect light beautifully and brighten the interior. Well-placed mirrors and a choice of light colours give the interior depth, making a small bathroom with a bathtub feel more spacious.

• Light colours

This always works — white, beige, light greys and warm wood tones visually enlarge the space. Proper planning of the fixtures improves the bathroom's proportions, making it feel more harmonious.

• Minimalism in fittings

Slim faucets from the Pi, Delta, Delta Pi and Keria ranges don't visually overload the interior. Mosaic tiling is worth using around the bathtub, as it highlights the aesthetics and durability of the bathing space.

• Cleverly designed storage

Washbasin cabinets, tall units and recess enclosures help keep things tidy without taking up floor space.

• Making use of vertical surfaces

Taller mirrors, tall units and vertical lines in the layout visually "lift" the room.

A bathroom with a bathtub as the heart of the home

A bathroom with a bathtub is increasingly becoming a true heart of the home – a place not only for personal hygiene but, above all, for relaxing after a long day. To create such a space, it's worth aiming for a coherent bathroom layout in which every element has its place and function. The key elements here are not only a comfortable freestanding or corner bathtub, but also practical washbasins, spacious cabinets and carefully chosen accessories.

Light-coloured mirrors and tiles visually enlarge the space, while well-designed lighting creates a cosy atmosphere. A bath screen is a solution that lets you combine a quick shower with the option of a long, relaxing soak – making a bathroom with a bathtub even more functional. When choosing fixtures, it's worth being guided not only by aesthetics but also by the individual needs of household members, to create an interior that becomes a true oasis of calm and comfort. Well-chosen accessories will highlight the character of the arrangement and turn every bath into a special ritual.

The most common mistakes when designing a small bathroom with a bathtub

• choosing a bathtub that's too large and dominates the space,

• too bulky an enclosure around the bathtub,

• lack of storage space, leading to clutter,

• poor lighting, which makes the bathroom look smaller than it actually is,

• fittings that aren't matched to the scale of the room.

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Summary

A small bathroom doesn't have to mean giving up on a bathtub. All you need is to choose the right model — wall-mounted, corner, or with a shower screen — and to plan the layout and lighting carefully. With high-quality Excellent acrylic bathtubs and matching fittings, mirrors and accessories, you can create a small yet fully functional and beautiful bathing space.

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