Small bathrooms can be hard to style, but the Scandinavian look works well. Why? It’s clean, light, uncluttered, and very functional.
It achieves this without feeling cold or dull. Think of it as the design version of that stylish friend who always knows where their phone is.
I fell in love with Scandi style years ago while trying to make my cramped bathroom relaxing. The result? A fresh, airy space that turned brushing my teeth into a spa treat.
If you want to add that Nordic magic to your small bathroom, grab a coffee (or a cinnamon bun for full effect), and let’s dive in.
Step 1: Understand What Makes Scandinavian Bathrooms Special
Before you start buying “anything white and wooden,” you need to know the core principles of Scandi design.
The Essentials of Scandinavian Style
- Simplicity: Clean lines, uncluttered surfaces, and nothing fussy.
- Functionality: Every piece serves a purpose (bonus points if it serves two).
- Light & Airy Feel: A palette that reflects light and makes the space feel open.
- Natural Elements: Wood, stone, cotton, linen—textures that feel organic.
- Neutral Base with Pops of Warmth: Mostly whites and greys, with warm wood and soft accent tones.
Why it works for small bathrooms: This approach maximizes visual space, reduces clutter, and keeps things feeling calm. Perfect for a room you start and end your day in.
Step 2: Start With the Color Palette
Your color choice will set the tone—literally.
Go Light, But Not Clinical
Scandi bathrooms often feature white walls and tiles, but you can warm them up with touches of beige, pale grey, or soft blush.
- White + wood = instant Nordic vibes.
- Light grey with black accents = a modern twist.
- Warm cream with brass hardware = cozy meets chic.
When I switched my cold, bright-white walls to a softer off-white, the space instantly felt warmer—without losing that signature airy vibe.
Step 3: Choose Materials That Feel Natural
Scandinavian design loves honest, tactile materials. In a small bathroom, the textures you choose matter as much as the colors.
Key Material Ideas
- Wood: Oak or ash for cabinets and shelving.
- Stone: Marble, granite, or even terrazzo for a high-end look.
- Ceramics: Matte white tiles for walls or splashbacks.
- Fabrics: Linen or cotton for towels and shower curtains.
Pro tip: Even a small wooden stool or a bamboo bath mat can add that earthy warmth.
Step 4: Nail the Layout for Function
Space is precious in small bathrooms, and Scandi style thrives on efficiency.
Functional Layout Tweaks
- Use a floating vanity to make the floor feel bigger.
- Install wall-mounted toilets to free up visual space.
- Opt for sliding shower doors instead of ones that swing into the room.
Ever wondered why Nordic homes seem so uncluttered? It’s because everything has its place—yes, even the spare toothbrush heads.
Step 5: Select Fixtures With Clean Lines
The wrong fixtures can kill the vibe faster than you can say “chrome overload.”
Fixture Tips
- Stick to sleek, minimal shapes—no ornate curves or fussy detailing.
- Choose matte black, brushed brass, or stainless steel for taps and handles.
- For lighting, go for simple wall sconces or a clean-lined pendant.
Step 6: Keep Storage Minimal but Smart
Scandinavian design loves storage that hides the mess but looks stylish doing it.
Storage Solutions for Small Bathrooms
- Wall-mounted cabinets with mirrored fronts.
- Open wooden shelving with neatly arranged baskets.
- Ladder-style racks for towels (adds height and style).
When I added a slim, floor-to-ceiling storage unit to my tiny space, it was like giving my bathroom its own walk-in closet—minus the walking in.
Step 7: Light It Up (Literally)
Good lighting is a Scandi bathroom’s best friend.
Lighting Layer Ideas
- Ambient: Ceiling or flush-mount lights.
- Task: LED lights around or behind the mirror.
- Accent: A small wall light to create warmth.
Use warm white bulbs (around 2700K–3000K) to keep things inviting instead of sterile.
Step 8: Accessorize With Purpose
This is where you can inject personality—without cluttering your space.
Scandi-Friendly Accessories
- Amber glass bottles for hand soap or shampoo.
- Neutral-toned towels in cotton or linen.
- Simple ceramics for toothbrushes or storage.
- A single piece of minimalist wall art.
Less is more: In Scandinavian style, every accessory should either serve a function or spark joy. Preferably both.
Step 9: Add Greenery for Life
Plants are the unofficial mascots of Nordic interiors.
- Low-light options: Pothos, ferns, snake plants.
- High-light options: Aloe, succulents.
- Place a small potted plant on a shelf, or hang one from the ceiling for visual interest.
Not much of a green thumb? High-quality faux plants still do the job visually.
Step 10: Incorporate Texture for Depth
All-white spaces can fall flat—literally—if you don’t mix in tactile elements.
- Waffle-weave towels for a cozy touch.
- A woven basket for laundry or storage.
- A wooden bath brush displayed on a hook.
Texture keeps the space inviting, which is exactly what Scandinavian design is about.
Step 11: Use Mirrors to Open Up the Space
In small bathrooms, mirrors do more than reflect your face.
- Go big—fill the wall above your vanity.
- Try round or oval mirrors for softer lines.
- Consider a backlit mirror for both style and function.
Step 12: Keep It Warm (But Minimal)
Scandi bathrooms avoid feeling cold by layering in warmth.
- Wood accents (a bench, shelving, or bath mat).
- Warm metals like brass or bronze.
- Soft lighting to mimic natural daylight.
Step 13: Think Sustainability
Scandinavian living values sustainability as much as style.
- Choose eco-friendly materials (organic cotton towels, bamboo accessories).
- Opt for water-saving fixtures.
- Buy timeless pieces that last instead of trendy throwaways.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-accessorizing – The clutter kills the calm.
- Using too many dark colors – You’ll lose the airy feel.
- Mixing too many finishes – Keep it consistent.
- Forgetting texture – All-white + flat surfaces = sterile, not Scandi.
Quick Scandinavian Bathroom Checklist
- ✅ Neutral, light color palette.
- ✅ Natural materials like wood and stone.
- ✅ Clean-lined fixtures and storage.
- ✅ Smart, minimal storage solutions.
- ✅ Thoughtful lighting layers.
- ✅ Functional yet stylish accessories.
- ✅ Touches of greenery and texture.
Final Thoughts: Small Bathroom, Big Nordic Energy
How to create a Scandinavian look in a small bathroom boils down to this: keep it light, keep it functional, and let the design breathe.
A small bathroom can absolutely feel open and serene when you mix natural textures, soft light, and purposeful accessories.
When I finished my own Scandi makeover, I found myself spending way too long “just brushing my teeth” because the space was that calming.
And that’s the goal—transforming your small bathroom into a place that feels more like a spa than a storage closet.
So go ahead—pick your palette, embrace the wood accents, and let your inner minimalist have some fun. Before you know it, you’ll have a space that even a Swede would approve of 😉
