Bathrooms are often challenged by limited space, leading to clutter and chaos. While vanities and over-the-toilet storage provide some relief, they may not suffice for shared spaces or larger households. The solution? Additional organizational strategies are essential.
Maximizing bathroom space while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere can be achieved through smart shelving. Unlike bulky traditional furniture, shelves are available in diverse shapes, styles, and sizes, making it easy to find a perfect fit for any bathroom. They can store anything from toiletries to decorative items, and even humidity-loving plants.
Because they’re technically flush with the wall, they don’t take up any extra square footage by jutting out into a snug room. In this project by Laura Chappetto of Element Design Network, the traditional accent is seen in an unexpected arch shape, adding glamour and personality.
Bathroom shelves can be found in a myriad of styles and materials. They’re a great way to bring a new texture or finish into your space and can also allow you to reinforce a design theme. In this funky bath, designer Laura Hur of Lorla Studio chose to echo the terrazzo tile flooring by using the same finish for the trio of floating shelves above the toilet. Built-in finishes have a way of feeling more thoughtful and intentional than some store-bought shelving solutions. They give a space structure and a sense of permanence. Love the idea of working a custom piece into your bathroom? Take inspiration from this project by TKS Design Group, where designer Susan Klimala commissioned a bookcase-inspired unit to house extra towels, toiletries, and a few decorative touches. Bigger is not always better! A pair of oversized bathroom shelves can feel totally out of place in a petite space. Make sure to contextualize your shelving solution within the parameters of your bathroom. Here, designer Alice Chiu of Miss Alice Designs opted for a duo of mini oak shelves with just enough surface area to hold a few essentials (and look good while doing it). The process of hanging shelves is not without its fair share of labor—or the risk of damage. If you’re a renter (or just someone who can’t bear to put another hole in their wall), standalone shelving can be a great option. Even better, it allows you to seek out an antique piece—like the gorgeous linen cabinet seen here in a project by W Design Collective—which can add some much-needed patina to your bathroom. Between mirrors, towel hooks, artwork, and other essentials, hanging one more thing on your bathroom walls doesn’t always feel like the right solution. If you’re looking for a quieter approach, consider a carved-out niche, as seen here in a project by designer Libby Rawes of Sharp and Grey Interiors. It lives subtly next to the vanity and, when painted in all-white, fades quietly into the background while still increasing the function of the room. Bathroom shelving isn’t just a functional choice, it can be an aesthetic one too. By adding open shelving to your vanity, your room will take on a more modern, edgy vibe. Need proof? Take this bathroom from designer Susan Yeley for example.Incorporate modern and stylish bathroom shelving to enhance your space. Graphic tile and streamlined finishes pair with a floating open-shelf vanity for a contemporary feel.
Discover the beauty of incorporating a simple ledge beneath your mirror, a natural spot to stash everything from decorative vases to toothbrushes. Designer Caroline Kopp chose a sleek and modern black ledge to add a storage surface to this powder room. Add glamour to your bathroom with a brass gallery rail. This elegant touch transforms your shelving from a functional storage solution to something worth obsessing over, as seen in Alisa Bovino’s design. Consider your needs when planning bathroom shelving. If you plan to use your shelf for washcloths, store it close to your vanity for easy access, as demonstrated in Jessie Tobias’ design with a reclaimed wood shelf floating alongside the tub. When your design already has a stunning focal point, opt for airy floating glass shelves that disappear into the pattern while still providing storage, as chosen by TKS Design Group. Traditional wainscoting can add dimension and layers to your bathroom and act as shelving. Designer Nels Crosthwaite Eyre uses an extra-deep ledge around the perimeter to highlight decorative trinkets and keep toiletries handy in this charming British bath. 37 Wainscoting Ideas That Will Instantly Add More Charm and Character to Your Walls. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit.
