Small Bathroom Remodeling

At Mustache Approved Remodeling, we specialize in small bathroom remodeling throughout the East Valley, including Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, and Ahwatukee.

Small bathrooms—including guest bathrooms, hall bathrooms, and powder rooms—present unique challenges and opportunities. Limited square footage doesn’t mean limited potential. With smart design, space-maximizing features, and professional installation, your small bathroom can feel larger, function better, and look stunning.

Whether you’re updating a cramped guest bath, converting a tub to a walk-in shower in a hall bathroom, or refreshing a powder room, our licensed team delivers durable craftsmanship and results built to last.

As a licensed general contractor (ROC #309760), we handle every aspect of small bathroom remodeling—from design and demolition through tile, plumbing, and finishing details—ensuring quality craftsmanship and results that exceed expectations.

For comprehensive information about bathroom renovations, visit our bathroom remodeling services page or our Bathroom FAQs.

Watch: Small Bathroom Remodeling Project

What Is a Small Bathroom Remodel?

A small bathroom remodel is a renovation of a bathroom typically under 60 square feet—including guest bathrooms, hall bathrooms, secondary bathrooms, and powder rooms. These spaces require different design strategies than larger master bathrooms, focusing on maximizing every inch while maintaining function and style.

Small bathroom remodels typically include:

• Space-efficient shower designs (walk-in, curbless, or tub/shower combo)
• Single vanities with smart storage solutions
• Large-format tile to create the illusion of more space
• Frameless glass enclosures that open up sightlines
• Recessed niches and built-in storage
• Strategic lighting to brighten the space
• Modern fixtures with smaller footprints
• Professional waterproofing systems

The goal of small bathroom remodeling isn’t just to update finishes—it’s to transform how the space feels and functions. A well-designed small bathroom can feel twice as large while working twice as hard.

Throughout the East Valley, small bathroom remodels have become one of the most popular home improvement projects, delivering significant impact for bathrooms that guests and family members use daily.

Types of Small Bathrooms We Remodel

Guest Bathrooms

Guest bathrooms serve visitors and need to make a good impression while remaining functional. These bathrooms typically range from 40-60 square feet and feature a single vanity with a tub/shower combination or walk-in shower.

Guest bathroom remodeling focuses on:

• Welcoming, updated design that impresses visitors
• Durable materials that withstand occasional use
• Neutral finishes that appeal to everyone
• Functional storage for guest essentials
• Easy-to-clean surfaces

A guest bathroom remodel ensures your visitors have a comfortable, updated space that reflects the quality of your home.

Hall Bathrooms

Hall bathrooms serve multiple family members and often endure heavy daily use. These shared spaces—sometimes called secondary bathrooms or family bathrooms—need to handle busy morning routines while maintaining their appearance over time.

Hall bathroom remodeling focuses on:

• Durable materials that withstand high traffic
• Efficient layouts for morning routines
• Adequate storage for multiple users
• Walk-in showers, curbless showers, or tub/shower combinations based on family needs
• Easy maintenance finishes

Hall bathrooms offer flexibility in shower design. Families with young children may prefer keeping a tub/shower combination, while households without small children often convert to walk-in or curbless showers for improved accessibility and modern aesthetics.

Powder Rooms

Powder rooms—also called half bathrooms—are the smallest bathroom spaces, typically featuring only a toilet and vanity with no shower or tub. These compact spaces usually range from 15-30 square feet.

Powder room remodeling focuses on:

• Bold design choices (small space = lower risk for statement finishes)
• Pedestal sinks or floating vanities to maximize floor space
• Statement mirrors and lighting
• Decorative tile or accent walls
• Efficient ventilation

Because powder rooms don’t include showers, they offer opportunities for design choices you might not risk in larger bathrooms—dramatic wallpaper, bold tile patterns, or unique fixtures.

Secondary Bathrooms

Secondary bathrooms include any non-master bathroom—kids’ bathrooms, basement bathrooms, in-law suite bathrooms, or additional bathrooms in larger homes. These spaces often get neglected but deserve the same quality renovation as primary bathrooms.

Secondary bathroom remodeling is tailored to the specific users—kid-friendly finishes for children’s bathrooms, accessible features for in-law suites, or durable materials for high-traffic family bathrooms.

Benefits of Small Bathroom Remodeling

Maximized Space and Function

Small bathroom remodeling transforms cramped, inefficient spaces into functional rooms that feel larger. Strategic design choices—floating vanities, frameless glass, large-format tile, and recessed storage—create the illusion of more space while improving daily function.

Every inch matters in a small bathroom. Professional design ensures no space is wasted while maintaining comfortable clearances and traffic flow.

Improved Storage

One of the biggest complaints about small bathrooms is lack of storage. Small bathroom remodels address this with:

• Vanities with drawers instead of doors
• Recessed medicine cabinets
• Built-in shower niches
• Floating shelves
• Over-toilet storage solutions
• Towel bars and hooks in strategic locations

Smart storage keeps counters clear and everything organized—essential in small spaces.

Updated Aesthetics

Dated tile, worn fixtures, and old vanities make small bathrooms feel even smaller. Modern finishes, clean lines, and updated fixtures transform the look and feel of the entire space.

Light colors, large-format tiles, and frameless glass create a bright, open aesthetic that makes small bathrooms feel more spacious.

Increased Home Value

Updated bathrooms—including guest bathrooms and hall bathrooms—significantly impact home value and buyer appeal. Buyers notice every bathroom in a home, and dated secondary bathrooms can create negative impressions that affect offers.

A professionally remodeled small bathroom delivers strong return on investment while improving daily function for your family and guests.

For more information about bathroom remodeling costs and value, visit our bathroom remodeling cost guide.

Small Bathroom Remodeling Options

Walk-In Shower Installation

Walk-in showers are an excellent option for small guest bathrooms and hall bathrooms, creating an open feel that makes the space appear larger. Without bulky tub walls or shower curtains blocking sightlines, the bathroom feels more spacious.

Small bathroom walk-in shower features:

• Space-efficient designs starting at 36×36 inches
• Frameless glass enclosures to maintain open sightlines
• Large-format tile to minimize grout lines
• Built-in niches for storage without protruding shelves
• Low-threshold entry for accessibility
• Full waterproofing with our S.W.A.N. Plan system

Walk-in showers work beautifully in small bathrooms, creating a modern, spa-like experience without requiring a large footprint.

Learn more about our walk-in shower installation services.

Curbless Shower Installation

Curbless showers—also called zero-entry or barrier-free showers—are an excellent option for small hall bathrooms where accessibility matters. The seamless entry creates a modern aesthetic while eliminating trip hazards.

Curbless shower benefits for small bathrooms:

• No step or curb to trip over
• Seamless, modern aesthetic
• Makes small bathroom feel larger
• Wheelchair and walker accessible
• Aging-in-place friendly
• Easier to clean

Curbless showers require precise installation and advanced waterproofing. Not all homes can accommodate curbless construction—particularly those with post-tension slab foundations. We evaluate feasibility during consultation.

Learn more about our curbless shower installation services.

Tub/Shower Combination

For families with young children or homeowners who want to maintain bathing options, tub/shower combinations remain a practical choice for small hall bathrooms and guest bathrooms.

Modern tub/shower combinations include:

• Updated tile surrounds replacing dated fiberglass or acrylic
• Alcove tubs with custom tile walls
• Built-in niches for storage
• Modern fixtures and showerheads
• Frameless or semi-frameless glass doors (replacing shower curtains)
• Complete waterproofing

We install custom tile tub/shower combinations that look modern and function beautifully—nothing like the builder-grade units from the 1990s and 2000s.

Tub-to-Shower Conversion

Many small bathrooms feature tubs that are rarely used. Tub-to-shower conversion replaces that underused bathtub with a walk-in shower, often gaining usable space and improving accessibility.

Tub-to-shower conversion in small bathrooms includes:

• Removal of existing bathtub
• Plumbing modifications for shower configuration
• New shower pan with proper waterproofing
• Custom tile walls and floor
• Built-in niche for storage
• Glass enclosure or shower door
• Complete S.W.A.N. Plan waterproofing

Important note: If you’re converting your only bathtub to a shower, consider whether you need bathing options for children or resale value. Homes with at least one bathtub typically appeal to more buyers.

Learn more about our tub-to-shower conversion services.

Shower Tile Installation

Tile defines your small bathroom’s style and durability. Professional tile installation ensures your shower looks stunning and performs flawlessly for decades.

Small bathroom tile recommendations:

• Large-format tiles (12×24 or larger) minimize grout lines and make spaces feel bigger
• Light colors reflect light and open up the space
• Continuous tile from floor into shower creates seamless flow
• Minimal pattern changes keep the eye moving and space feeling larger
• Professional leveling systems ensure lippage-free installation

Learn more about our shower tile installation services.

Vanity and Storage Solutions

The vanity is often the focal point of a small bathroom, and the right choice significantly impacts both function and perceived space.

Small bathroom vanity options:

• Floating vanities that expose floor space and make rooms feel larger
• Single-sink vanities with maximum drawer storage
• Narrow-depth vanities (18-21 inches) for tight spaces
• Pedestal sinks for powder rooms where storage isn’t critical
• Custom vanities sized to fit specific dimensions

Storage solutions for small bathrooms:

• Recessed medicine cabinets (storage without protruding into the room)
• Built-in shower niches
• Over-toilet cabinets or shelving
• Towel bars and hooks instead of bulky towel racks
• Drawer organizers to maximize vanity storage

Design Strategies for Small Bathrooms

Making Small Bathrooms Feel Larger

Professional design transforms small bathrooms from cramped to comfortable:

Use large-format tile – Fewer grout lines create a cleaner, more expansive look. 12×24 inch tiles or larger work well even in small spaces.

Install frameless glass – Glass enclosures maintain sightlines across the entire bathroom, making the space feel open rather than chopped up.

Choose floating vanities – Exposing floor space beneath the vanity creates the illusion of more square footage.

Keep colors light – Light tiles, paint, and fixtures reflect light and make spaces feel airy. Save bold colors for accents.

Extend tile continuously – Running the same floor tile from the bathroom into the shower (for curbless designs) eliminates visual breaks.

Maximize natural light – If possible, use frosted windows or skylights to bring in natural light without sacrificing privacy.

Use large mirrors – Mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of doubled space. Consider extending mirrors wall-to-wall above vanities.

Lighting for Small Bathrooms

Proper lighting is essential in small bathrooms:

• Vanity lighting at eye level for grooming tasks
• Recessed ceiling lights for ambient illumination
• Wet-rated shower lights for safety and function
• Dimmer switches for flexibility

Layered lighting makes small bathrooms feel larger and more functional.

Ventilation

Small bathrooms require adequate ventilation to prevent moisture damage and mold growth:

• Properly sized exhaust fans (minimum 50 CFM for small bathrooms)
• Quiet fan models that encourage use
• Timer or humidity-sensing switches
• Proper venting to exterior

We include ventilation assessment and upgrades in all small bathroom remodels.

The S.W.A.N. Plan: Our Waterproofing System

Every shower we build—regardless of bathroom size—uses our S.W.A.N. Plan (Sleep Well At Night) waterproofing system. This isn’t just caulk at the seams—it’s complete, comprehensive waterproofing of every surface.

What the S.W.A.N. Plan Includes

Laticrete Hydro Ban Liquid-Applied Waterproofing

We use industry-leading Laticrete Hydro Ban Board & waterproofing membrane applied to shower pan. We use Hydro Ban Seal where the boards meet and in the inside corners. This liquid-applied membrane creates a continuous, flexible waterproof barrier that moves with your home’s natural settling and expansion. We also take it a step further using an antifracture felt in the corners around the shower pan.

Hydro Ban Board or Professional-Grade Cement Board

All shower walls receive Hydro Ban Board substrate that provides structural support and moisture resistance.

Crack-Isolation Membranes

Arizona’s challenging foundation conditions—including soil movement, settling, and temperature fluctuations—require additional protection.

Complete Surface Coverage

We waterproof the entire shower system:

• All shower walls from floor to ceiling or top of tile
• Shower floor and pan area with complete coverage
• All corners, seams, and penetrations
• Niches and any built-in features
• Drainage areas and around drain assemblies

Why It Matters:

• Prevents water damage behind walls
• Eliminates mold and mildew growth
• Protects your home’s structure
• Avoids costly repairs down the road
• Gives you peace of mind for decades

Many contractors only waterproof seams and corners. We waterproof everything—walls, floors, niches—because water finds its way through the smallest gaps over time.

For a detailed breakdown of our waterproofing process, read our complete S.W.A.N. Plan guide.

The Small Bathroom Remodeling Process

Initial Consultation

Every small bathroom project begins with thorough consultation:

• Assess current bathroom condition and layout
• Discuss your goals, style preferences, and must-have features
• Review budget parameters and priorities
• Take detailed measurements
• Discuss timeline expectations

Design and Material Selection

After initial consultation:

• Develop layout options to maximize space
• Select tile for shower, floor, and accents
• Choose vanity, countertop, and fixtures
• Select shower type (walk-in, curbless, or tub/shower)
• Determine lighting and ventilation
• Finalize design and provide detailed estimate

Material Ordering

Once design is approved:

• Order tile and setting materials
• Order vanity and countertop
• Order fixtures, lighting, and accessories
• Order glass enclosure
• Coordinate delivery schedules

Demolition

When materials are ready, work begins:

• Protect adjacent areas
• Remove existing fixtures, tile, and vanity
• Remove flooring if included
• Dispose of all demolition debris

Rough-In Work

Before new installation:

• Complete any plumbing relocations
• Complete electrical updates
• Install shower pan or curbless drain system
• Install backer board and waterproofing membrane

Installation

New small bathroom takes shape:

• Install shower tile (walls and floor)
• Install bathroom floor tile
• Grout all tile
• Install vanity and countertop
• Install toilet
• Install shower glass
• Install fixtures and accessories
• Install lighting and ventilation

Finishing and Walkthrough

Completing your small bathroom:

• Caulking and sealing all transitions
• Touch-up painting
• Final adjustments
• Complete cleaning
• Final walkthrough
• Care and maintenance instructions

For details on our complete remodeling approach, visit our process page.

Timeline for Small Bathroom Remodeling

Small bathroom remodel timelines vary based on scope and complexity.

Full Small Bathroom Remodel (Guest Bath or Hall Bath):

• Week 1: Demolition, rough plumbing and electrical
• Week 2: Install Vanity, Shower pan, waterproofing, backer board, start tile
• Week 3: Tile installation, countertop installation
• Week 4: Grouting, plumbing fixtures, & install bypass shower door

Total: 3-4 weeks

Tub-to-Shower Conversion: 2-3 weeks

Powder Room Remodel: 1-2 weeks (no shower work)

For more detailed timeline information, visit our Bathroom FAQs page.

Cost of Small Bathroom Remodeling

Small bathroom remodeling costs vary based on scope, materials, and bathroom type.

Typical Cost Ranges

• Guest bathroom remodel (full): $25,000-$35,000
• Hall bathroom remodel (full): $25,000-$35,000
• Small bathroom tub-to-shower conversion: $15,000-$25,000
• Powder room remodel: $10,000-$18,000

Cost Factors

• Bathroom size and layout
• Shower type (walk-in vs. curbless vs. tub/shower combo)
• Tile selection (basic porcelain vs. large-format vs. natural stone)
• Vanity quality (stock vs. semi-custom)
• Glass enclosure (framed vs. frameless)
• Fixtures (builder-grade vs. premium)
• Plumbing or electrical modifications

What’s Typically Included

Our small bathroom remodeling estimates include:

• Design consultation and planning
• All demolition and disposal
• Plumbing and electrical work
• Complete waterproofing (S.W.A.N. Plan)
• All tile and installation
• Vanity, countertop, and installation
• Fixtures and accessories
• Glass enclosure (if applicable)
• Lighting and ventilation
• Final cleanup and walkthrough

During consultation, we provide detailed pricing based on your specific bathroom, selections, and scope.

Small Bathroom vs. Master Bathroom Remodeling

Small Bathroom (Guest/Hall/Powder):

• Smaller size (under 60 square feet)
• Single vanity
• Space-maximizing design focus
• Shorter timeline (2-4 weeks)
• Lower investment ($15,000-$35,000)
• Used by guests or shared by family

Master Bathroom:

• Larger size (80-150+ square feet)
• Dual vanity options
• More features (separate shower and tub, private toilet)
• Longer timeline (5-7 weeks)
• Higher investment ($35,000-$85,000+)
• Daily use by homeowners

Both bathroom types benefit from professional installation and proper waterproofing. We tailor our approach to each bathroom’s specific needs and purpose.

For master bathroom information, visit our master bathroom remodeling page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Small Bathroom Remodeling

How long does a small bathroom remodel take?

Full small bathroom remodels (guest or hall bathrooms) typically take 3-4 weeks. Tub-to-shower conversions take 2-3 weeks. Powder room remodels take 1-2 weeks. Timeline depends on scope, complexity, and material lead times.

Can I use my bathroom during remodeling?

No—your bathroom will be non-functional during remodeling. If you have multiple bathrooms, you’ll use another one. If you only have one bathroom, we work as efficiently as possible to minimize the inconvenience.

Should I convert my tub to a shower?

It depends on your household needs. If the tub is rarely used, converting to a walk-in shower improves function and accessibility. However, if this is your only bathtub, consider whether you need bathing options for children or resale appeal.

What’s the best shower option for a small bathroom?

Walk-in showers with frameless glass typically make small bathrooms feel largest. Curbless showers offer maximum accessibility. Tub/shower combinations work well for families with young children. We help you choose based on your needs during consultation.

How can I make my small bathroom feel bigger?

Large-format tile, frameless glass, floating vanities, light colors, and continuous flooring all help small bathrooms feel larger. Professional design maximizes these strategies for your specific space.

Do you waterproof the entire shower?

Yes. Our S.W.A.N. Plan waterproofing system covers all shower walls, the floor, niches, and every corner and transition. This prevents water damage and ensures your shower performs for decades.

What areas do you service?

We provide small bathroom remodeling throughout the Phoenix East Valley including Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, and Ahwatukee.

How much does a small bathroom remodel cost?

Costs vary based on scope and selections. Guest and hall bathroom remodels typically range from $20,000-$30,000. Powder room remodels range from $10,000-$18,000. We provide detailed estimates during consultation.

Why Choose Mustache Approved for Small Bathroom Remodeling

Licensed General Contractor (ROC #309760)

As a licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor, we handle complete small bathroom projects including plumbing, electrical, tile, and all finishing details. One contractor, complete accountability.

S.W.A.N. Plan Waterproofing

Every shower we build is completely waterproofed—walls, floors, niches, corners, and transitions. This prevents water damage, mold, and costly repairs. Sleep well at night knowing your shower is built right.

Space-Maximizing Design

We specialize in making small bathrooms feel larger through smart design, material selection, and professional installation. Every inch matters, and we make every inch count.

Complete Design-Build Service

We manage everything from initial design through final walkthrough—tile selection, fixture coordination, plumbing, electrical, and all finishing details. No need to coordinate multiple contractors.

Quality Craftsmanship

We use premium materials, professional leveling systems, and proven installation techniques. Our work is built for long-term performance, not just initial appearance.

Proven Process

Our 6-step remodeling process ensures clear communication, quality execution, and no surprises from consultation through completion.

Transparent Pricing

We provide detailed written estimates covering all work, materials, and timeline. No hidden fees or surprise charges.

Serving the East Valley

We proudly provide small bathroom remodeling—including guest bathrooms, hall bathrooms, and powder rooms—throughout the East Valley:

• Gilbert
• Chandler
• Mesa
• Tempe
• Scottsdale
• Ahwatukee

Ready to Transform Your Small Bathroom?

Whether you’re planning a guest bathroom update, hall bathroom renovation, or powder room refresh, contact Mustache Approved Remodeling to schedule a consultation. We’ll evaluate your bathroom, discuss your goals and options, review your budget, and provide a clear plan for your project.

Additional Resources:

• Bathroom FAQs – Common questions answered
• View Our Bathroom Project Gallery – See completed transformations
• Walk-In Shower Installation – Comprehensive walk-in shower information
• Curbless Shower Installation – Zero-entry shower details
• Tub-to-Shower Conversion – Convert your unused tub
• Shower Tile Installation – Professional tile services
• Master Bathroom Remodeling – Larger bathroom renovations
• Bathroom Remodeling – Complete bathroom services
• Schedule a Consultation Today

Mustache Approved Remodeling
ROC #309760 | Licensed, Bonded, Insured
Serving Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale & Ahwatukee