Not every bathroom has room to grow, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be better. With the right approach, even a small layout can feel more open, more useful, and more inviting. At Koch Construction, we’ve worked with homeowners across a wide range of bathroom sizes, and when space is limited, focusing on the shower often brings the biggest results.
Updating the Shower Makes the Biggest Impact
In most small bathroom remodels, we’re not tearing everything out. Often, the goal is to modernize just one part of the space, usually the shower area. That might mean removing an old tub that doesn’t get used, replacing a tight corner stall, or swapping out aging materials for something cleaner and more updated.
A well-designed shower can completely change the feel of a bathroom. It adds visual space, improves comfort, and often makes the entire room more functional.
Common Layout Challenge: The Phone Booth Shower
We run into the same layout challenge in a lot of homes: the original shower is narrow, boxed in, and difficult to move around in. It’s what we sometimes refer to as a “phone booth” setup. In these cases, expanding the footprint isn’t always an option, but we can still make a big difference.
In a recent remodel, we did just that by:
- Installing a preformed shower base to streamline the footprint and reduce installation time
- Adding ceramic tile walls for a clean look that’s also easy to maintain
- Finishing with a custom frameless glass enclosure to let light in and reduce visual clutter
To open the space further, we replaced one of the shower walls with a knee wall and clear glass. Even though the shower remained roughly the same size, it immediately felt bigger and more comfortable to use.
Before
After
After
Design Choices That Make a Small Bathroom Feel Larger
You don’t need more square footage to make a bathroom feel better. The right design elements—glass, tile, and lighting—go a long way in opening up a tight space.
Clear glass enclosures help eliminate barriers and improve sightlines. Lighter tile colors reflect light and make the room feel airier. Even small touches, like a niche for shampoo or a well-placed showerhead, can make daily use feel smoother and more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions: Small Bathroom Remodel with Shower
Homeowners often come to us with questions when considering a bathroom update. Here are some of the most common ones we hear:
How much does it cost to build a small bathroom with a shower?
Costs can vary depending on materials, layout, and the scope of work. At Koch Construction, small bathroom remodels that focus on replacing a tub or upgrading a shower typically fall in the range of $15,000 to $30,000. Full bathroom builds or complete overhauls may cost more depending on plumbing, finishes, and space constraints.
What is the smallest bathroom you can have with a shower?
It’s possible to build a fully functioning bathroom with a shower in as little as 30 to 36 square feet. Tight layouts require smart planning, and we often use corner showers or preformed bases to make the most of every inch.
What is the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel?
The shower or wet area usually takes up the biggest part of the budget, especially if tile, glass enclosures, and custom plumbing are involved. Labor and tile work are typically the largest line items, especially in smaller bathrooms where everything has to be precise.
What is the average size of a small bathroom with a shower?
A typical small bathroom with a shower is around 40 to 50 square feet. That’s enough space to comfortably include a shower, toilet, and small vanity without feeling too cramped.
What size toilet is best for a small bathroom?
We often recommend compact or round-front toilets for small bathrooms. These models save space while still meeting standard performance and comfort expectations. Wall-mounted options can also be considered if space is especially tight.
Every Bathroom Has Limitations—We Work With Them
Not every home allows for major layout changes, and not every remodel needs them. At Koch Construction, we specialize in finding practical, high-impact updates that make the most of the space you have. Whether it’s removing an unused tub or replacing a dated stall with something more efficient and attractive, we focus on upgrades that last.
If you’re considering a small bathroom remodel with shower updates, we’re here to help you find the right fit for your space—and build it to stand the test of time.