Whether you're considering installing a new half bathroom or remodeling a current bathroom, it helps to know the average sizes and dimensions for this bathroom type. So, just how big is your average half bathroom? We've done a bit of digging to find the average square footage of these bathrooms. In this post, we will cover them.
The average size of a half bathroom is about 16-20 square feet. Typical dimensions for the small-sized bathrooms include 4x4 for 4x5 or 6x3. Though they are relatively small when compared to traditional bathrooms, they are large enough to house a toilet, sink, and a small cabinet in most cases.
A half bathroom can be an efficient space if you don't need all the typical bathroom functions, such as a bathtub, shower, or shelving. But it is imperative first to decide how you plan to use a half bathroom before installing a new one in your home. Continue reading to learn more about this bathroom type.
More on Half Bathroom Sizes
Half bathrooms, also known as powder rooms or guest bathrooms, typically only have a sink and a toilet. They're also usually located on the first level of a home or multi-story property. The bathrooms are created as a standard room in many homes but are also designed for accessibility and homes with disabled or elderly people.
If you plan to install a new half bathroom in your home, be sure to measure the space beforehand adequately. It'll also be best to have a consultation with a general contractor. Let's look at the average sizes for the fixtures in these bathrooms.
Toilets
Your average ADA-compliant toilet is about 16 to 20 inches wide and about 27 to 30 inches deep. Be sure to consider these dimensions when designing the layout of your bathroom, as they'll help determine the location of the plumbing installation.
Sinks
The average bathroom sink will be anywhere from 15 to 30 inches in diameter. When shopping for sinks, you'll find that rectangular-shaped sinks tend to be on the larger side, and round bowl-shaped sinks will be more narrow. So if you're working with an exceptionally tight space, the latter may be more ideal.
Door space
Though your typical bathroom door will open outwardly, it can also open it inwardly. If the door opens inwardly, the bathroom door should be at least 24 to 36 inches away from the sink and toilet fixtures. This will allow for comfortable maneuverability while inside the bathroom.
Other bathroom fixtures
Other fixtures, including shelves, trash receptacles, and towel racks, will also require a sufficient amount of space. For example, your average small trash can is about 10 to 12 inches in diameter, but you can find smaller trash cans to fit your half bathroom.
What is considered a half bathroom?
A half bathroom is typically a bathroom that does not have a bathtub or a shower area. It consists only of a sink, toilet, and other bathroom features such as a cabinet or shelf. These bathrooms are designed with convenience, personal grooming, and quick use.
If you have a larger family, having a half bathroom can be advantageous-- especially if you only have one other bathroom in the home. It's also worth noting that most homes will have two bathrooms for every three bedrooms.
What is the smallest half bathroom size?
The smallest ADA-compliant half bathroom will be 38 square feet. This bathroom includes no bathing facilities and will only contain a sink in a toilet.
Ways To Make a Half Bathroom Appear Bigger
If you want to increase the space for a half bathroom and don't want to remodel, perhaps you should consider ways to make the space feel bigger. Let's look at a few common design tips.
Change the wallpaper
Try purchasing wallpaper with horizontal patterns and fewer textures for the bathroom. These can elevate the bathroom and make it appear bigger and wider. Too many textures in the small space can give it a maze-like appearance.
Change the color of the paint
Light-colored paints such as eggshell, sea green, beige, and light blue make small spaces look bigger. Consider changing the color in your bathroom to a lighter hue to give it a bit of a modern edge and make it appear more open.
Move the toilet paper
You may not think of this, but try moving the toilet paper to beneath the sink [in a bin] attach it to the side of it. Removing the toilet paper from the wall can give the bathroom as much as 8 to 10 inches of additional room on the wall. Every little bit can make a difference when it comes to these tight spaces.
Add a big mirror above the vanity
You can also add a big mirror right above the vanity. Even if your vanity is on the narrow side, a long and wide mirror can help to create an illusion of spaciousness in the bathroom. It'll also create an airy and open vibe even if your bathroom lacks natural light.
Install better lighting
Speaking of lighting, better lighting can also help make the bathroom up here larger. Search online or at local home decor stores for oversized pendants or ceiling lights. Flooding the small room with light cannot only improve visibility, but it will also make the small space appear less stark.
Read more about this light on Amazon.
Add a window
If your bathroom is located on the side of your home, consider adding a small window to the room. Windows allow for more ventilation, which can be helpful if the bathroom doesn't have an exhaust fan.
It will also make the space appear more open and give it access to natural sunlight. You can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $600 for a bathroom window installation. This will be a significant price difference compared to remodeling the bathroom to make it bigger.
Switch up the flooring
Similar to the wall color, a light-colored flooring option will help open up the bathroom and make it appear larger. Dark-colored wood, laminate, or tiles will make the bathroom look more cave-like and compact. It's also a good idea to go with larger tiles, as they tend to trick the eye and make rooms look more spacious.
Switch to a bowl vanity
Rounded sinks are typically smaller than rectangular sinks. Consider replacing the vanity with one that's more narrow and add a vessel sink to save on a bit of space. Be sure to measure the sink ahead of time to ensure that it'll fit inside of the vanity.
Check out this vessel sink on Amazon.
Get a smaller toilet
Every inch matters in a half bathroom. This is why installing a smaller toilet can also help free up a bit of room. If you're looking to maximize space in the bathroom [and make it more comfortable to utilize], consider replacing the toilet with one that's 14.5 inches to 16 inches wide.
Read more details about this toilet on Amazon.
Does adding a half bathroom add value to a home?
Yes. According to the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders), adding a half bathroom can increase your home's value by 10 to 12%. And adding a new full bathroom can increase the value of your home by as much as 20%.
Can you put a shower in a half bath?
A shower won't necessarily fit in a half bathroom space. However, you can open up the bathroom by knocking out a wall, installing plumbing, and installing a shower area.
If you are familiar with home remodeling and plumbing, you can do this yourself and pay under $1,000 for materials. However, if you contract the work out to a home builder, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000 for the remodel.
Wrapping Things Up
We hope this post has given you an idea of the most common dimensions of a half bathroom and their primary purpose. If you're looking to install a new half bathroom in your home, be sure to have a licensed contractor discuss the best sizing options for your particular space. You'll also want to ensure that you're adhering to local building codes.
Before you go, be sure to check out our other posts:
11 Farmhouse Bathroom Floor Ideas You'll Love
Vessel Sink Vs. Drop-In Sink Vs. Undermount Sink – Which To Choose?