Small bathrooms are common in many established Canberra homes, especially around Page, Scullin, Florey, Hawker, Macquarie and Belconnen. The problem is not always the size of the room. Most of the time, it is the layout, storage, lighting and finishes that make the bathroom feel cramped.
A well-planned bathroom renovation can make a small space feel brighter, calmer and much more practical. At Prestige Plumbing & Building, we help Canberra homeowners turn outdated bathrooms into functional spaces that work better for everyday living.
For inspiration, you can view our recent Page bathroom renovation and small Page bathroom transformation.
Improve the Layout Before Choosing Tiles
Before thinking about tile colours or tapware, look at how the bathroom actually works.
Ask yourself:
Can the door open properly?
Is the vanity too bulky?
Does the shower feel tight?
Is there wasted wall space?
Is the toilet in an awkward position?
In a small bathroom, every millimetre matters. A better layout can make the room feel larger without increasing the footprint. Sometimes this means changing the vanity size, replacing a framed shower with a clear glass screen, or adjusting plumbing positions to improve flow.
Because Prestige’s builder is also a licensed plumber, we can look at the design and plumbing together. That helps you understand what layout changes are practical before you commit to selections.
Use Storage That Does Not Crowd the Room
A small bathroom does not need to be plain, but it does need balance.
Light tiles, simple tapware, large mirrors and clear shower screens can help the room feel bigger. You can still add warmth through timber-look cabinetry, brushed chrome, soft neutral tones or a feature tile in the shower niche.
If the bathroom is very small, try not to use too many competing finishes. A clean and consistent palette usually feels more spacious.
Do Not Compromise on Waterproofing
Waterproofing is one of the most important parts of any bathroom renovation. HIA explains that AS 3740:2021 sets minimum requirements for the materials, design and installation of waterproofing in domestic wet areas and is referenced in the NCC 2022.
This matters even more in small bathrooms because the shower, vanity, toilet and floor areas are often close together. Proper waterproofing, drainage and falls help protect the home long term.
Check Older Homes Before Strip-Out
Many homes in established Canberra suburbs were built before 1990. ACT Government guidance states that any home built in the ACT before 1990 may contain asbestos.
WorkSafe ACT also states that asbestos-containing material must be removed by a licensed asbestos removalist in the ACT.
This is why bathroom demolition should be planned properly, especially in older homes around Page, Scullin, Hawker and nearby suburbs.
Know When Approvals May Be Needed
Not every bathroom renovation needs the same approval pathway. However, ACT Government guidance says renovations may need development approval, building approval, or other approvals such as plumbing and electrical depending on the work involved.
If you are changing plumbing locations, altering walls or making structural changes, it is worth checking requirements early.
