5x9 Bathroom Layout Ideas with and Without Showers In Orange County

A 5×9 bathroom layout is fairly common, but designing or renovating one of these bathrooms comes with a number of logistical challenges. It can often be hard to construct a bathroom that effectively incorporates the space limitations and layout obstacles of a 5×9 layout, giving homeowners enough space while not sacrificing function. Fortunately, if you live in Orange County and are looking to design or remodel your 5×9 bathroom, you can draw upon verified expert designs and craftsmanship to maximize the functionality of your bathroom!

Understanding the 5×9 Bathroom Layout

The 5×9 bathroom layout is a common feature in many Orange County homes. 5×9 bathrooms typically offer enough space for a standard toilet, a decently-large vanity with storage, and a free-standing tub, shower, or walk-in. Naturally, 5×9 bathrooms do suffer from a lack of physical space, and oftentimes, fixtures must be arranged compactly to ensure functionality and effectiveness. Fortunately, with strategic fixture placement and door positioning, you can enhance the space utilization in your bathroom to make it more functional.

5×9 Bathroom Layouts with a Shower

Walk-In Shower vs. Shower-Tub Combo

A 5×9 bathroom layout with a walk-in shower is a great choice for maximization of the compact space. Because walk-in showers do not have a free-standing tub, they can help free up floor space and make walking into and out of the shower much simpler. Of course, this comes with the caveat of not having a tub, meaning that baths or spa treatments aren’t possible. A shower-tub combo can help improve versatility in this respect. Meanwhile, in terms of space perception, homeowners can choose glass enclosures for a more open feel or curtains for greater privacy.

Optimizing Shower Placement

The placement of the shower in a 5×9 bathroom is key to the functionality of the space. Generally, corner showers maximize open floor space and offer the best features for usability. However, centered shower designs are also possible for homeowners who want a more balanced layout. To help maximize space and incorporate a sleek, modern look, consider linear drains and curbless showers.

Space-Saving Shower Design Ideas

Many shower designs and features can help you save space in a 5×9 bathroom. Using large-format tiles on walls and floors can create the illusion of space, while small tiles often lead to a perception of claustrophobia. For maximal storage and use of space, built-in niches and recessed shower shelves can eliminate the need for extra vanity space. Finally, choosing clear glass doors can help maintain an open feel in the bathroom, creating an illusion of space.

5×9 Bathroom Layouts Without a Shower

Maximizing Floor Space with a Bathtub

If you plan to forgo a shower in your 5×9 bathroom, making good use of your floor space with a bathtub is a must. Both freestanding tubs and alcove tubs have pros and cons in compact layouts, with freestanding tubs often forming a great centerpiece but taking up space, while alcove tubs help create an illusion of space but may be harder to clean or get into and out of. Wall-mounted faucets can help save space and streamline aesthetics in a 5×9 bathroom, while built-in storage solutions around the bathtub area, such as in a vanity, can help clear up the room.

Creative Vanity and Sink Placement

Aside from your tub, creative vanity and sink placement will make or break your 5×9 bathroom. Like showers, corner sinks are great for clearing up floor space, while floating vanities can create an additional sense of airiness in a smaller bathroom. Shared bathrooms can often incorporate dual-sink vanities that often have extra storage space, allowing for better use of the open area.

Storage Solutions for a Tub-Only Layout

If you are thinking of doing a tub-only layout with no vanity, there are a number of options you can pursue. Utilizing above-the-toilet space by adding cabinets and shelves to the wall can save valuable floor area, while recessed medicine cabinets can offer storage without protruding into the space in an oppressive way. Open shelving is a great choice as well, as it not only permits easy access to toiletries and towels, but also creates a further illusion of openness.

Design Strategies for Any 5×9 Bathroom Layout

Utilizing Vertical Space

Vertical space is your best design friend for any 5×9 bathroom. Maximizing your use of floor-to-ceiling wall space by adding floating shelves or cabinets above the toilet or vanity can allow you to add extra storage without sacrificing floor space. Tall, narrow cabinets are an excellent aesthetic choice, as they increase storage while saving horizontal space for a more open feel. Finally, under-sink storage such as baskets and organizers can make use of found space in a creative way.

Enhancing Lighting and Ambiance

Lighting and ambiance are a huge factor in the appearance, feel, and perceived size of your 5×9 bathroom. Layered lighting with overhead fixtures and sconces will provide comprehensive light that fills the space and makes it feel open. Mirrors and other reflective surfaces will also enhance openness by providing the illusion of depth to your space. Statement lighting fixtures can make up for any limitations in your bathroom space, adding style and personality that is inviting to guests and friends.

Choosing the Right Color Palette

Alongside lighting, a bathroom's color palette goes a long way toward making it feel open, inviting, and functional. Choose soft, neutral colors like light gray, beige, and pale blue to create an open feel that pairs with gentle lighting. As a contrast to wall colors, darker accents through accessories or a feature wall can create the illusion of added depth. In general, any well-balanced palette will enhance the spaciousness of your bathroom and make it eye-catching and welcoming.

Getting Started on Your 5×9 Bathroom Remodel in Orange County

To get started on remodeling your 5×9 bathroom in Orange County, you can follow a few key steps. First, establish a budget and timeline to guide the project. Second, consider what layout and feature combinations you would like. Next, consult expert designers, link our Revive Real Estate interior design team, to create a customized renovation plan that fits your budget and abides by local codes. With expert help, you can get information and consultation on all the details of your project. Finally, once you have everything set and a contractor selected, start your remodel!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the best layout options for a 5×9 bathroom with a shower?

The best layout options for a 5×9 bathroom with a shower incorporate a corner shower, a walk-in, or a shower-tub combo. Corner placement helps to maximize as much floor space as possible, while walk-in showers further add space and comfort. For those who need a tub, shower-tub combos can save space and provide dual functionality.

Can I fit a full bathtub in a 5×9 bathroom?

Some 5×9 bathrooms can fit full bathtubs, but in many cases a full tub takes up a lot of space. If you want a tub-only layout, this may be perfect for you, but if you’re looking to add a toilet, vanity, or both, space-efficient bathtub choices built for small layouts, such as alcove tubs, are your best bet.

What are some budget-friendly ways to upgrade a small bathroom?

Budget-friendly bathroom upgrades often focus on cosmetic updates to enhance the look and feel on an existing space. Small changes such as repainted cabinets, updated light fixtures, and peel-and-stick tiles can quickly spruce up an outdated small bathroom and make it instantly more inviting and fresh.

How can I make my 5×9 bathroom feel larger?

You can create the illusion of a larger space in your 5×9 bathroom without moving any walls at all! Minor upgrades such as an altered color palette that prioritizes light colors, large mirrors to create reflective depth, glass shower walls, and enhanced, clutter-free design choices can all make your bathroom look much larger on a small budget. 

What are the benefits of hiring a professional for a 5×9 bathroom remodel in Orange County?

Professional guidance is a must if you plan on renovating your 5×9 Orange County bathroom. By consulting professionals such as those at Revive, you can start your remodel project with expert guidance on layout optimization, making renovation a breeze. Additionally, qualified professionals can help you hire the best contractors, find high-quality materials, and guide your remodel from start to finish.