When transforming a compact cloakroom, en-suite or bathroom, editing is absolutely key. Every item needs to be carefully considered and intentionally added, as small areas can quickly become overpowered by too many furnishings and accessories. Stick to the mantra of less is more and pare down bodycare products and homewares to just essentials or favourites, and dress shelves sparingly with no more than a few key pieces to avoid creating a crowded feel. Although all design guidelines are made to be broken, sticking to the rule of three generally makes styling much easier.

Contrary to popular belief, modest bathrooms can handle big and bold prints as well chosen patterns can add a sense of depth, however if you're not confident with choosing the right colours or styles, stick to neutral, muted tones to open up the space. You can also create a cohesive look with carefully chosen accessories that tonally match your decor, and add a sense of warmth by incorporating natural materials such as linen, marble, wood and stone.

The scale of your bathroom's furnishings can also have a huge impact on your perception of the space, so consider the size relationship between all featured fixtures, fittings and accessories. Upscaling rooms with a super-sized feature can sometimes make a space seem larger than it is, however it's important not to have multiple items competing for visual attention. In compact areas, create a single focal point centred around an elegant freestanding bath, beautifully crafted vanity unit, or flawless basin, and frame it with accessories for maximum impact.

Utilising less floor space is a smart way to make a room appear larger, so opt for wall fixed storage such as floating shelves or vanity units, and keep your space tidy and well organised with hanging or wall-mounted shower shelves, towel rails and storage baskets in coordinated finishes. Space-saving designs that offer dual functionality can also help to keep bathrooms decluttered, including vanity units with built-in basins, mirrors with storage ledges, and slimline shelves that hold towels as well as toiletries.

As well as clever storage, consider the impact of your fixtures and fittings by choosing wall hung basins and wall mounted toilets to further reduce your use of floor space, and invest in minimalist walk-in shower enclosures with frameless, glass panels in for a sleek, barely-there aesthetic. Your choice of tile for floors and walls can also make a difference - interior designers generally recommend that larger styles are best for tighter spaces as they reduce the number of grout lines, however smaller designs can work well when used to create a single statement surface.

Mirrors are a fundamental feature in any bathroom, however they're especially important if square footage is limited as they can reflect light and increase the sense of airiness while also tricking the eye into seeing a bigger space. Cramped bathrooms can also benefit from floor to ceiling mirror panels to create the illusion of greater depth.

Lighting is also tremendously impactful in terms of space perception, so strip back heavy window dressings to maximise natural light, and if you do choose curtains, opt for light, sheer fabrics and make sure to hang them close to the ceiling to elongate your window length. It's also important to choose the right lighting fixtures based on the proportions of your room - choose recessed downlights rather than pendant fittings if you have a low ceiling, and add task and wall lighting to create dramatic illumination and open out the space even further.

For further interior inspiration, explore our collections of freestanding stone baths, flawless basins, and sleek shower sets.