10 Small Bathroom Ideas for Bronx Apartments

Transform Your Cramped Bathroom into a Functional, Beautiful Space

Living in a Bronx apartment often means dealing with small bathrooms that feel more like closets than comfortable spaces. If you’re tired of bumping into walls every morning or struggling to find storage for your toiletries, you’re not alone. Most apartment bathrooms in the Bronx average between 36 and 40 square feet, with many older buildings featuring even tighter 5-foot by 7-foot layouts.

The good news? A small bathroom doesn’t have to feel cramped or outdated. With smart design choices and the right renovation strategies, even the tiniest Bronx apartment bathroom can become a functional, stylish retreat. At Brilliant Renovation LLC, we’ve spent over 12 years transforming small bathrooms throughout the Bronx, from pre-war apartments in Riverdale to modern units in Fordham. We know exactly what works in these compact spaces.

In this guide, we’ll share 10 proven small bathroom ideas specifically designed for Bronx apartments. These aren’t just trendy concepts—they’re practical solutions that maximize space, increase home value, and work within the unique challenges of NYC buildings.

Understanding Small Bathrooms in Bronx Apartments

Before diving into specific solutions, it’s important to understand what you’re working with. According to industry data, apartment bathrooms in smaller homes and condos typically measure between 36 and 40 square feet. In NYC specifically, most apartment bathrooms average around 5 feet by 7 feet, sometimes smaller in older buildings with narrow layouts.

The Bronx presents unique renovation challenges. Many buildings are pre-war construction, featuring aging plumbing, outdated electrical systems, and layouts that require creative solutions. These historic buildings often have limited space, awkward floor plans, and building regulations that must be carefully navigated.

Despite these challenges, bathroom renovations offer excellent returns. Well-designed bathroom remodels can yield a 60% to 70% return on investment, making them one of the most valuable home improvements you can make.

1. Install a Wall-Mounted Floating Vanity

One of the most effective small bathroom ideas is replacing your traditional floor-standing vanity with a wall-mounted floating vanity. This single change can transform how your bathroom looks and feels.

Why It Works:

Wall-mounted vanities free up valuable floor space by elevating the cabinet 12 to 18 inches off the ground. This exposed floor area creates an immediate visual expansion, making your bathroom appear larger and more open. The floating design also makes cleaning underneath much easier—no more awkward maneuvering around bulky cabinet bases.

Modern wall-mounted vanities come in sizes perfect for small spaces, with 22-inch to 32-inch widths being ideal for Bronx apartment bathrooms. Despite their compact size, these vanities offer surprisingly good storage through soft-close drawers and integrated shelving.

Design Benefits:

The contemporary aesthetic of floating vanities aligns with current bathroom design trends for 2025-2026. They create what designers call a “minimalist luxury” look—clean lines combined with functional elegance. When paired with proper lighting, the floating effect can make even a 5×7 bathroom feel spacious and upscale.

Cost Considerations:

Quality wall-mounted vanities suitable for small bathrooms typically range from $200 to $800, depending on materials and finishes. Professional installation is essential since these units must be securely anchored to wall studs. In Bronx apartment buildings, especially pre-war structures, your contractor will need to assess wall strength and may need to add blocking between studs for proper support.

2. Use a Corner Sink to Maximize Space

Corner sinks are an underutilized solution that can dramatically improve small bathroom functionality. By tucking the sink into a corner, you free up an entire wall for storage, mirrors, or simply better movement flow.

Space-Saving Advantages:

Corner bathroom sinks are specifically designed for compact spaces like powder rooms and apartment bathrooms. These fixtures efficiently utilize corners that typically go unused, creating better traffic flow and reducing the chance of bumping into bulky vanities. The corner placement allows for more open floor space in the center of the room.

Design Versatility:

Corner sinks come in various styles including wall-mounted, pedestal, and small corner vanities. Wall-mounted versions are particularly effective in very small bathrooms, while corner vanities with storage cabinets offer the best of both worlds. Modern corner sinks feature rounded edges for safety and a softer, more comfortable design aesthetic that works well in vintage-style bathrooms common in Bronx pre-war apartments.

Installation Tips:

Corner sinks can be mounted at preferred heights, making them extremely versatile. For small bathrooms, experts recommend keeping sinks compact—typically in triangular or rounded shapes that maximize the corner space without protruding too far into the room. Professional installation is important to ensure proper plumbing connections and secure mounting, especially in older buildings where wall structures may vary.

3. Choose a Walk-In Shower Over a Tub

If your family doesn’t regularly use the bathtub, replacing it with a walk-in shower can create a significant space improvement. This is one of the most transformative small bathroom renovation ideas.

Visual Expansion:

Walk-in showers with clear glass enclosures create an unobstructed view across the entire bathroom, making the space feel dramatically larger. Without the visual barrier of a tub or shower curtain, your eye can see the whole room, reducing that cramped feeling. Frameless glass shower doors are particularly effective because they eliminate chunky frames and hardware that can make small spaces feel cluttered.

Space Efficiency:

A compact walk-in shower can fit into spaces as small as 36 square feet, with the shower itself occupying just a corner of your bathroom. By eliminating the bulky bathtub, you free up floor space for better traffic flow or additional storage. For small bathrooms, sliding glass shower doors are ideal because they don’t require clearance space for outward swinging, unlike traditional hinged doors.

Design Options:

Current trends favor frameless or semi-frameless glass enclosures that create a sleek, modern look. Corner shower installations are particularly effective in small bathrooms, utilizing two existing walls and requiring only one or two glass panels. Some homeowners opt for a simple barrier wall and slight floor slope instead of a full enclosure, creating what’s known as a “wet room” style that makes the bathroom feel even more open.

Building Considerations:

In Bronx apartment buildings, especially co-ops and condos, wet-over-dry restrictions may apply (meaning you cannot place a shower over someone else’s living space). Always check building regulations before starting your renovation. Most bathroom renovations that involve plumbing changes will require NYC permits.

4. Add Recessed Storage and Shower Niches

Storage is one of the biggest challenges in small bathrooms. Instead of adding bulky cabinets or shelves that eat into your limited space, use the space inside your walls.

Shower Niches:

Built-in shower niches are trending for 2025-2026 and for good reason. These recessed shelves keep shampoo bottles, soap, and other essentials organized without cluttering your shower floor or hanging caddies. The niche should have a solid bottom piece that’s slightly tilted forward so water doesn’t pool. Installing a shower niche during renovation adds minimal cost but provides permanent, waterproof storage.

Recessed Medicine Cabinets:

Modern recessed medicine cabinets are nothing like the old-fashioned versions from decades past. Today’s models feature gorgeous mirrors, integrated LED lighting, and easy-open mechanisms. By recessing the cabinet into the wall rather than mounting it on the surface, you gain storage without sacrificing any bathroom space.

Wall Niche Outside Shower:

Builders can create wall niches outside the shower for open shelving, adding storage without the bulk of traditional shelving units. This works particularly well for displaying decorative items or storing frequently-used toiletries.

Benefits:

Recessed storage keeps surfaces clutter-free, which is essential in small bathrooms where every visible item can make the space feel more cramped. This approach maximizes usable space while maintaining clean, minimalist aesthetics.

5. Use Light Colors and Large-Format Tiles

Color and tile choices have enormous impact on how spacious your small bathroom feels. The right selections can visually double your space.

Light Color Benefits:

Light, neutral colors reflect more light and create a bright, open atmosphere. White, soft gray, and warm beige tones are classic choices that make bathrooms feel larger. These colors work especially well in Bronx apartments where natural light may be limited. The trend toward “color drenching”—using one color throughout walls, cabinets, and sometimes even floors—creates visual continuity that eliminates breaks and makes small spaces feel more expansive.

Large-Format Tile Advantages:

Large-format tiles are a major trend for 2025 bathroom design, and they’re particularly effective in small spaces. Tiles measuring 12×24 inches or larger create a seamless, spacious look with fewer grout lines. With 40% of design experts highlighting oversized tiles as a top trend, this choice keeps your bathroom current while serving a practical purpose—less grout means easier maintenance and a cleaner overall appearance.

Professional Installation:

Large-format tiles require skilled installation to ensure proper placement, waterproofing, and grout application. In small bathrooms, even slight installation errors become more noticeable. Working with experienced bathroom contractors like Brilliant Renovation LLC ensures your tile work is done correctly the first time, with proper underlayment and moisture barriers that are essential in NYC buildings.

6. Install Pocket or Sliding Doors

Traditional swing doors require clearance space that small bathrooms simply can’t spare. Pocket doors and barn-style sliding doors offer elegant alternatives.

Space Savings:

A standard bathroom door requires about 9 square feet of clearance to swing open. In a 40-square-foot bathroom, that’s nearly 25% of your total space! Pocket doors slide into the wall cavity, requiring zero clearance space. Barn-style sliding doors operate along a track parallel to the wall, also eliminating the need for swing clearance.

Style Options:

Sliding glass shower doors with barn-style hardware have become increasingly popular, adding designer touches while saving space. For bathroom entry doors, you can choose from various styles including frosted glass for light transmission or solid wood for privacy.

Building Compliance:

In Bronx apartment buildings, especially co-ops, you’ll need to check building regulations before installing pocket doors. Some buildings have specific requirements for door types, particularly for fire safety. Your contractor should handle these approvals as part of the renovation process.

Installation Considerations:

Pocket doors require sufficient wall cavity space and cannot be installed in walls that contain plumbing or electrical. An experienced contractor will assess your walls and determine if this solution is feasible for your specific bathroom.

7. Maximize Vertical Storage

When you can’t expand outward, build upward. Vertical storage solutions make the most of your bathroom’s height without consuming valuable floor space.

Over-Toilet Storage:

The space above your toilet is prime real estate for storage. Over-the-toilet cabinets, floating shelves, or tall storage towers can hold towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies. These units typically don’t require floor space beyond the toilet’s footprint, making them perfect for small bathrooms.

Tall Cabinets:

Narrow, tall cabinets (sometimes called linen towers) provide substantial storage in a small footprint. A 12 to 18-inch wide cabinet that extends from floor to ceiling can store as much as a traditional wide cabinet while occupying far less floor space.

Wall-Mounted Solutions:

Floating shelves, towel bars at multiple heights, and wall-mounted organizers keep items accessible without cluttering counters or floor space. The key is utilizing the vertical dimension strategically throughout your bathroom.

Organization Systems:

Within your vertical storage, use organizers, baskets, and dividers to keep items tidy. Adjustable shelving allows you to customize storage as your needs change.

8. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Fixtures

Modern, energy-efficient fixtures not only save water and electricity—they’re often designed with space efficiency in mind, making them ideal for small bathroom renovations.

Low-Flow Toilets:

Today’s low-flow toilets use significantly less water per flush (1.28 gallons vs. older models’ 3.5+ gallons) while maintaining powerful flushing performance. Wall-mounted toilets create a floating effect similar to wall-mounted vanities, freeing up floor space and making cleaning easier. These are trending for 2025-2026 as homeowners seek modern, space-efficient designs.

Water-Saving Faucets:

Low-flow faucets and fixtures with CoolStart technology help cut water and energy costs. In Bronx apartments where utility costs can be substantial, these upgrades provide ongoing savings. Modern faucets also come in space-saving designs, including wall-mounted options that free up counter space.

LED Lighting:

LED lighting has become standard in bathroom renovations. These lights use a fraction of the energy of traditional bulbs, last far longer, and generate less heat in small spaces. Programmable LED lighting that shifts from bright morning light to warm evening glow is a growing trend, creating ambiance while serving practical needs.

Utility Savings:

While energy-efficient fixtures may cost slightly more upfront, the utility savings add up quickly. In NYC where water and electricity costs are higher than national averages, these upgrades typically pay for themselves within a few years.

9. Use Mirrors Strategically

Mirrors are perhaps the most cost-effective way to make a small bathroom feel larger. The right mirror placement can visually double your space.

Oversized Mirrors:

Large mirrors that extend from counter to ceiling bounce available light around the room, making it feel open and brighter. Design experts recommend going “up to the ceiling” with mirrors in small bathrooms to maximize the visual expansion effect. An oversized mirror creates the illusion of depth, making your bathroom appear much larger than its actual dimensions.

Lighting Reflection:

Mirrors strategically placed to reflect both natural and artificial light sources amplify brightness throughout your bathroom. Positioning mirrors opposite windows or across from vanity lights creates multiple light reflections that eliminate dark corners and shadows.

Statement Mirrors:

While any mirror helps expand space, a well-chosen statement mirror can become a beautiful focal point. Mirrors with interesting frames, unique shapes (arched mirrors are trending), or integrated LED backlighting add character while serving their space-expanding function.

Placement Tips:

The most effective mirror placement is directly above your vanity, as large as your wall allows. If possible, extend the mirror across the entire wall rather than choosing a smaller, centered mirror. In very small bathrooms, mirrored medicine cabinets serve double duty—providing storage while creating the visual expansion effect.

10. Add Heated Floors and Smart Lighting

Just because your bathroom is small doesn’t mean it can’t feel luxurious. Heated floors and smart lighting are increasingly accessible upgrades that transform your daily experience.

Heated Floors:

Radiant heated flooring is one of the most requested features in bathroom renovations. These systems add everyday luxury, especially during cold New York winters. Walking onto warm floors first thing in the morning eliminates the shock of cold tile. In small bathrooms, heated floor installation is more affordable since you’re covering less square footage—typically adding $8 to $15 per square foot to your renovation costs.

Smart Lighting:

Programmable lighting systems allow you to adjust brightness and color temperature throughout the day. Bright, energizing light for morning routines shifts to soft, relaxing illumination for evening baths. Smart dimmers, motion sensors, and voice-controlled systems add convenience while creating atmosphere in your small bathroom.

Energy Efficiency:

Modern radiant floor heating systems are energy-efficient, warming only the floor rather than heating air throughout the room. Similarly, LED smart lights use minimal electricity while providing sophisticated control over your bathroom’s ambiance.

Installation Timing:

Both heated floors and updated electrical for smart lighting are most cost-effectively installed during a full bathroom renovation rather than as standalone upgrades. If you’re already opening walls and floors, adding these features becomes much more affordable.

What Small Bathroom Renovations Cost in the Bronx

Understanding realistic costs helps you plan your small bathroom transformation effectively. In the Bronx, small bathroom remodel costs typically range from $8,000 to $25,000 for a complete renovation.

Cost Breakdown:

• Basic Remodel ($8,000-$15,000): Updating fixtures, repainting, new flooring, and basic tile work. Keeps existing layout.
• Mid-Range Remodel ($15,000-$30,000): Includes layout changes, upgraded fixtures, quality tiles, and modern amenities like heated floors or improved lighting.
• Upscale Remodel ($30,000+): Features luxury materials, custom cabinetry, high-end fixtures, and comprehensive changes.

The average bathroom remodel in NYC, according to recent data, costs between $18,000 and $74,000 depending on scope and materials. Small bathroom renovations fall on the lower end of this spectrum due to less square footage, but NYC labor costs—which account for approximately 65% of bathroom remodel expenses—keep prices higher than national averages.

Factors Affecting Cost:

• Size: Your bathroom’s dimensions directly impact material and labor costs
• Materials: High-end tiles, fixtures, and finishes increase costs substantially
• Layout Changes: Moving plumbing or electrical adds significant expense
• Building Requirements: Permits, building approvals, and any required upgrades add to the budget
• Condition: Older bathrooms may reveal water damage or structural issues requiring repairs

Permit Requirements:

NYC requires permits for most bathroom renovations involving plumbing or electrical work. Permit fees vary but budget several hundred dollars for permits and inspections. Working with licensed contractors like Brilliant Renovation LLC ensures all permits are properly filed and inspections passed.

Working with Pre-War Bronx Buildings

The Bronx features many beautiful pre-war buildings from the 1920s through 1940s. These structures have charm and character but present specific renovation challenges.

Common Issues:

Pre-war Bronx buildings often feature aging plumbing that may require updating before or during your bathroom renovation. Lead pipes, old cast iron drains, and outdated venting systems can add complexity and cost. Poor ventilation in older bathrooms leads to mold growth, requiring mold-resistant materials during renovation. Cracked tiles from settling foundations and heavy use are common, often indicating underlying structural movement.

Plumbing Considerations:

Leaking pipes in pre-war buildings frequently cause water damage to walls and floors that must be addressed before cosmetic updates. Your contractor should perform a thorough assessment of plumbing conditions, potentially recommending pipe replacement to avoid future problems.

Building Approvals:

Co-ops and condos typically require alteration agreements with specific insurance requirements, work hours restrictions, and sometimes security deposits. Allow time for board approval processes—these can take weeks in some buildings. Landlord-approved upgrades in rental units require documentation and approvals before beginning work.

Timeline Expectations:

Pre-war bathroom renovations often take longer than similar projects in newer buildings. Plan for potential surprises like outdated wiring that must be brought to code or structural quirks that require creative solutions. A typical small bathroom renovation in a pre-war Bronx building takes 3 to 5 weeks from demolition to completion.

Why Choose Brilliant Renovation LLC for Your Bronx Bathroom Project

At Brilliant Renovation LLC, we bring specialized expertise to small bathroom renovations throughout the Bronx. With over 12 years of experience serving Bronx County and Westchester County, we understand the unique challenges of working in NYC apartment buildings, especially pre-war structures.

Local Expertise:

We know Bronx neighborhoods from Riverdale to Fordham, Soundview to Pelham Bay. We’ve worked with countless co-op boards, building managers, and homeowners, establishing relationships that help streamline approvals and logistics. Our team understands local building codes, permit requirements, and the most efficient ways to work within the constraints of typical Bronx apartments.

Quality Craftsmanship:

We use premium materials designed for the demands of NYC living—durable, moisture-resistant, and built to last. Our installations meet the highest standards, ensuring your bathroom renovation withstands heavy daily use and the test of time.

Transparent Pricing:

We provide clear, upfront estimates with no hidden fees. Our clients consistently praise our honest communication and accurate cost projections. You’ll know exactly what to expect before work begins.

Comprehensive Services:

Beyond bathrooms, we offer complete residential and commercial renovation services including kitchen remodeling, drywall, roofing, masonry, siding, and more. Whether you need a simple bathroom refresh or a complete apartment renovation, we handle every aspect professionally.

Ready to transform your small Bronx bathroom? Contact Brilliant Renovation LLC at +1 917-705-4571 for a free consultation. Visit us at www.brilliantrenovationllc.com to see our portfolio and learn more about our services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need permits for bathroom renovation in Bronx apartments?

Yes, most bathroom renovations in NYC require permits, especially when involving plumbing or electrical work. Even cosmetic updates may require permits if you’re changing fixtures or making structural modifications. Co-op and condo buildings additionally require alteration agreements and board approvals. Your contractor should handle permit applications and schedule required inspections. Working without proper permits can result in fines and may complicate future home sales.

How long does a small bathroom renovation take?

Small bathroom renovations typically take 3 to 5 weeks from demolition to completion. The timeline includes demolition (2-5 days), rough plumbing and electrical work (1-4 days), framing and waterproofing, tile installation, fixture installation, and finishing work. In Bronx pre-war buildings, allow extra time for potential surprises like outdated plumbing or structural quirks. Building approvals in co-ops and condos can add weeks before work begins, so factor this into your planning.

What are the best space-saving bathroom fixtures?

The best space-saving bathroom fixtures include wall-mounted floating vanities (free up floor space and create visual openness), corner sinks (utilize unused corners), wall-mounted toilets (create floating effect and save floor space), frameless walk-in showers with sliding doors (no swing clearance needed), recessed medicine cabinets and shower niches (use wall cavity space), and pocket or sliding doors (eliminate door swing requirements). These fixtures maximize function in compact Bronx apartment bathrooms.

Can I renovate a bathroom in a pre-war Bronx building?

Yes, bathrooms in pre-war Bronx buildings can absolutely be renovated. These renovations often require additional expertise due to aging plumbing, outdated electrical systems, and unique structural considerations. Work with contractors experienced in pre-war buildings who understand how to navigate building approvals, code requirements, and potential challenges like lead pipes or inadequate venting. Expect your renovation to potentially reveal water damage or structural issues requiring attention, and allow flexibility in timeline and budget.

What bathroom improvements add the most value?

Bathroom renovations generally provide a 60% to 70% return on investment, making them one of the most valuable home improvements. The most impactful upgrades include replacing outdated fixtures with modern, efficient models, improving lighting with layered, bright illumination, updating tiles and flooring with current materials and colors, adding functional storage solutions, and creating better layouts with improved flow. In NYC apartments, modern bathrooms significantly impact resale value and rental appeal.

Should I replace my bathtub with a shower?

If your household doesn’t regularly use the bathtub, replacing it with a walk-in shower can significantly improve your small bathroom. Walk-in showers with glass enclosures create visual openness, require less space than tubs, and offer easier accessibility. However, real estate experts recommend maintaining at least one bathtub in your home for resale value, especially if you have multiple bathrooms. Consider your lifestyle, household needs, and whether this is your only bathroom before making this change.

Transform Your Bronx Bathroom Today

Living with a cramped, outdated bathroom doesn’t have to be your reality. These 10 small bathroom ideas prove that even the most compact Bronx apartment bathrooms can become functional, beautiful spaces that you’ll love using every day.

From wall-mounted vanities and corner sinks to walk-in showers and smart storage solutions, the right combination of design strategies can completely transform how your bathroom looks and feels. Whether you’re in a pre-war building in Riverdale or a modern apartment in Fordham, these space-saving solutions work.

At Brilliant Renovation LLC, we’ve spent over 12 years helping Bronx homeowners, landlords, and property managers maximize their small bathrooms. We understand the unique challenges of NYC apartment renovations, from building approvals to working with pre-war plumbing systems.

Ready to start your bathroom transformation? We offer:

• Free consultations and detailed estimates
• Experienced, licensed contractors
• Knowledge of Bronx buildings and local codes
• Quality materials and expert craftsmanship
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Contact Brilliant Renovation LLC today:

• Phone: +1 917-705-4571
• Website: www.brilliantrenovationllc.com
• Serving: The Bronx and all nearby areas in NYC

Don’t let a small bathroom hold you back. Let’s create a space that maximizes every inch while reflecting your style. Call us today for your free consultation!