Most Iowa homes have small bathrooms. This is true in Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, and other Central Iowa cities. Many of these bathrooms feel cramped and outdated. But you do not need more space to get a better bathroom. You just need smart choices and a skilled contractor.
TLDR: Small bathrooms can feel much bigger with the right changes. Swap your tub for a walk-in shower. Add large mirrors. Use floating vanities. Pick light colors and good lighting. These simple updates can transform your cramped bathroom into a space that feels open and works better for your family.
This guide shows you how to make your small bathroom feel larger. You will learn which changes give you the best results. We cover costs, timelines, and ideas that work well in Central Iowa homes. Whether you live in Johnston or Urbandale, these tips will help you plan your project.
Why Small Bathroom Remodels Work Well in Iowa
Iowa homes built before 1990 often have bathrooms under 50 square feet. The right design choices make small rooms feel bigger without adding space.
According to the National Association of Home Builders, bathroom updates rank among the top projects for return on investment. Central Iowa’s climate means you need materials that handle humidity changes. A registered contractor who knows Iowa codes will help you make the right choices.
Replace Your Tub with a Walk-In Shower
Most small bathrooms have a tub that takes up too much space. If you do not use your tub often, a walk-in shower opens up the room. They create a seamless look, make cleaning easier, and feel safer for older adults.
What makes walk-in showers work:
- Curbless designs remove visual barriers
- Frameless glass lets light flow through
- Built-in niches hold soap and shampoo without adding bulk
Illustrative scenario: A family in Ankeny replaced their 30-year-old fiberglass tub with a tiled walk-in shower. The 42-square-foot bathroom felt twice as large after the remodel. The project cost about $8,500.
| Feature | Standard Tub | Walk-In Shower |
|---|---|---|
| Floor space used | 15 to 18 sq ft | 9 to 12 sq ft |
| Visual openness | Low | High |
| Cleaning time | 20 to 30 min | 10 to 15 min |
| Typical cost | $2,000 to $5,000 | $4,000 to $10,000 |
| Best for | Families with young kids | Most other households |
Walk-in showers work best when you use frameless glass. This lets your eye travel through the space without stopping.
Use Large Mirrors to Create Space
Mirrors make small rooms feel bigger. They reflect light and create the illusion of depth. A wall-to-wall mirror above your vanity can double how large your bathroom appears.
Mirror options for small bathrooms:
| Mirror Type | Cost Range | Space Impact | Best Placement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic wall mirror | $50 to $200 | Moderate | Above vanity |
| Full-wall mirror | $200 to $600 | High | Vanity wall |
| Backlit LED mirror | $150 to $500 | High | Above vanity |
| Medicine cabinet mirror | $100 to $400 | Moderate with storage | Above vanity |
The U.S. Department of Energy notes that LED lighting uses 75% less energy than older bulbs. Backlit mirrors give you better light while saving on energy bills.
Choose Floating Vanities and Fixtures
Floating vanities hang on the wall instead of sitting on the floor. This shows more floor space, which tricks your eye into seeing a larger room. They also make cleaning easier since you can mop underneath.
Benefits of floating designs:
- Shows more floor space
- Creates a modern look
- Makes cleaning easier
- Allows for under-glow lighting
Wall-mounted toilets save about 10 inches of floor space. In a bathroom under 40 square feet, this makes a real difference.
Pick Light Colors and Large Tiles
Dark colors and busy patterns make small spaces feel cramped. Light colors reflect more light and make rooms feel open. The best choices include off-white, pale gray, and soft beige.
Color and finish guide:
| Choice | Effect on Space | Maintenance | Cost Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light matte walls | Good | Medium | Low |
| Light glossy walls | Better | Easy | Low |
| Large format tiles | Best | Easy | Medium |
| Small busy tiles | Poor | Hard | Medium |
The Environmental Protection Agency recommends choosing materials that resist mold and mildew. Tiles 12 inches or larger work well in small bathrooms since they create fewer visual breaks.
Upgrade Your Lighting
Most small bathrooms have one ceiling light. This creates shadows and makes the space feel dark. Layered lighting solves this problem with overhead, vanity, and accent lights working together.
Lighting comparison:
| Light Type | Purpose | Typical Cost | Installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recessed ceiling | General | $100 to $300 each | Professional |
| Vanity sconces | Task | $75 to $250 pair | DIY possible |
| Under-cabinet LED | Accent | $30 to $100 | DIY possible |
| Toe-kick lights | Ambiance | $50 to $150 | Professional |
Add Smart Storage Solutions
Small bathrooms need storage that does not take up floor space. Bulky cabinets make cramped rooms feel worse, but no storage leads to cluttered counters.
Storage ideas that work:
- Recessed medicine cabinets behind mirrors
- Vertical shelves above the toilet
- Built-in shower niches
- Pull-out drawer organizers in vanities
Illustrative scenario: A homeowner in West Des Moines found space behind their drywall for a recessed cabinet. This added 6 cubic feet of storage without changing the room’s footprint.
Consider Sliding or Pocket Doors
Standard bathroom doors swing inward and take up floor space. Pocket doors slide into the wall and disappear. Barn-style sliders offer a similar benefit with a different look. A pocket door installation typically costs $400 to $1,500.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a small bathroom remodel cost in Central Iowa?
Small bathroom remodels in Des Moines and surrounding areas typically cost $8,000 to $25,000. Basic updates like new fixtures and paint run $5,000 to $10,000. Full remodels with new tile, vanity, and shower cost $15,000 to $25,000. Final costs depend on your material choices and scope of work.
How long does a small bathroom remodel take?
Most small bathroom remodels take 2 to 4 weeks. Simple updates with no plumbing changes take 1 to 2 weeks. Projects that move plumbing or require permits take 3 to 4 weeks. Your contractor should give you a timeline before work starts.
Do I need permits for a bathroom remodel in Iowa?
You need permits for any work that changes plumbing, electrical, or structural elements. Cosmetic updates like new paint, mirrors, and light fixtures usually do not need permits. Your contractor should handle permit applications as part of the project.
What bathroom updates add the most value?
Walk-in showers, updated vanities, and modern lighting add the most value. These changes appeal to buyers and make daily use better. According to industry data, mid-range bathroom remodels recover 60% to 70% of their cost at resale.
Should I hire a contractor or do it myself?
Hire a registered contractor for plumbing, electrical, and tile work. DIY works for painting, installing mirrors, and simple fixture swaps. Poor tile work or plumbing mistakes cost more to fix than hiring a professional from the start.
Key Takeaways
Space-Saving Changes
- Replace tubs with walk-in showers to free floor space
- Use floating vanities to show more floor
- Install pocket or sliding doors
Visual Tricks
- Add large mirrors to reflect light
- Choose light colors and glossy finishes
- Use large format tiles with fewer grout lines
Practical Upgrades
- Layer your lighting for better function
- Add recessed storage to avoid clutter
- Pick easy-clean materials like quartz counters
Budget Planning
- Small bathroom remodels cost $8,000 to $25,000 in Central Iowa
- Allow 10% to 15% extra for unexpected costs
Ready to Transform Your Small Bathroom?
You now know how to make your small bathroom feel bigger and work better. The next step is talking with a contractor who understands Central Iowa homes.
Busy Builders has helped over 1,000 Central Iowa homeowners since 2020. We bring honesty and quality to every bathroom remodeling project. Our team serves Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Waukee, and all surrounding areas.
What we offer:
- Free consultation to discuss your goals
- Clear pricing with no hidden costs
- Knowledge of Iowa building codes and permits
- Skilled crews with years of experience
- Transparent communication throughout your project
Call us today to schedule your free bathroom design consultation.
Call: 844-435-9800
Visit: busybuildersiowa.com
Busy Builders | Full-Service Construction and Remodeling | Serving Central Iowa Since 2020
