Small bathrooms are a fact of life for many homeowners, especially in dense areas like Queens, Brooklyn, and much of Long Island. But just because a space is compact doesn’t mean it has to feel cramped or outdated. With the right design strategy, a modern bathroom remodel can completely transform even the tiniest space into something that feels open, luxurious, and functional.



At Gibraltar Home Improvements, we’ve been helping New York homeowners reimagine their homes since 1979 — and small bathrooms are one of the most rewarding challenges we tackle. Whether it’s a 5x8 guest bathroom or a narrow en-suite, our approach blends modern design with practical upgrades that maximize every square inch.

Here’s how you can turn a small bathroom into a modern oasis — and why Gibraltar Home Improvements is the team to make it happen.

Understanding the Challenges of Small Bathroom Spaces

The typical older bathroom in Queens or Brooklyn was built for utility, not comfort. These bathrooms often:

• Feature outdated layouts that don’t use space efficiently
• Have bulky fixtures that take up unnecessary room
• Lack proper lighting and ventilation
• Use dark finishes that make the space feel smaller
• Offer limited storage, leading to visual clutter

Trying to modernize these spaces without a clear strategy often leads to a bathroom that’s visually updated but still functionally lacking. That’s why a modern bathroom remodel is about more than new tiles and fixtures — it’s about rethinking how the space works for your daily life.

Modern bathroom design emphasizes clean lines, smart layouts, minimalism, and space-saving technology — making it an ideal match for small spaces.

Key Modern Design Features That Optimize Small Bathrooms

Small bathrooms benefit most from design elements that make the space feel larger, cleaner, and more functional. Here are some of the most effective modern solutions we regularly install during a modern bathroom remodel:

1. Floating Vanities

Traditional vanities take up visual and physical floor space. A floating vanity, mounted directly to the wall, creates the illusion of more room and allows light to flow freely under and around it. We customize vanities for storage, scale, and finish so they look sleek without sacrificing function.

2. Walk-In Showers

Replacing a tub-shower combo with a walk-in shower — especially a curbless, frameless design — adds an immediate sense of openness. Clear glass enclosures keep sight lines uninterrupted, which is essential in a tight space.

3. Wall-Mounted Toilets and Storage

Wall-mounted toilets save space by concealing the tank inside the wall, offering a minimalist look that works perfectly in a small bath. Add to that recessed shelves or in-wall storage niches, and you’re gaining function without crowding the floor.

4. Mirrors That Expand the Room

Oversized or backlit mirrors are a hallmark of modern bathroom design. Not only do they make the room look bigger, but they also reflect both natural and artificial light to brighten the space.

5. Light, Neutral Palettes

We use light-reflective materials like large-format porcelain tile, soft white or beige paint, and high-gloss finishes to enhance a sense of space. Light colors visually expand a small room, while consistent tone across the floor and walls makes it feel seamless.

Every one of these design decisions is guided by how you use your bathroom daily. At Gibraltar Home Improvements, we tailor each modern bathroom remodel to reflect the homeowner’s needs while applying proven principles that enhance small-space living.

Material Choices That Enhance Light and Space

The right materials do more than improve aesthetics — they work harder in small bathrooms. During your remodel, we help you choose finishes that:

Reflect Natural and Artificial Light

High-gloss tiles, polished stone, and even certain laminates reflect light more effectively, making the space feel airier. Pair these with LED lighting (especially around mirrors and under vanities) to eliminate shadows and dark corners.

Create Continuity

Using the same or similar materials for flooring and shower walls reduces visual breaks. A continuous surface makes the room feel larger and calmer — a signature trait of modern design.

Add Texture Without Clutter

In small spaces, textures must be intentional. Instead of using busy patterns, we recommend clean, matte tiles or large-format porcelain with subtle veining. These surfaces are low-maintenance and sophisticated — and perfect for a compact modern bathroom.

Support Sustainability

Modern bathroom remodels often incorporate eco-conscious materials, such as recycled glass tile, bamboo cabinetry, or water-saving fixtures. These choices don’t just reflect personal values — they often reduce maintenance and long-term costs as well.

With over 40 years of renovation experience, Gibraltar Home Improvements helps you make smart design decisions that improve form and function without overwhelming your space.