Removing it and replacing dated fixtures in their same locations opened things up. The long, narrow master bath in her clients’ 1951 house in La Jolla, CA, was “closed-in and compartmentalized,” Maggio says-in part because a large linen closet to the left of the entrance was squandering square footage. Clean, crisp four-piece Chipper Hatter CASE STUDY 1: 94 SQUARE FEET To illustrate the point, see how two designers, an architect, and an ardent DIYer made the most of a master bath in-a bit more or less than-a 100-square-foot space. Of course, not everyone wants the classic four-piece configuration, even when there’s room, opting instead to ditch a seldom-used tub in favor of a bigger shower, extra storage, a toilet enclosure, or even a laundry closet. “Whatever the shape, clever design can mitigate layout restrictions.” Consider, too, that this size space can also enable higher-end finishes that could break the bank in a larger bath. “A narrow space can be quite efficient, since most fixtures go along a wall, while a square lends more flexibility,” Maggio says. Not all square footage is considered equal, since design decisions are also dependent on room shape and window and door locations. Is going bigger that much better? It depends. That means allowing for a 3-foot-square shower, 30 inches of clearance alongside a tub and in front of a commode, and a 60-inch-long vanity. It allows for the classic four pieces-a double-sink vanity, a tub, a separate shower, and a toilet-while meeting the minimum standards for comfort and usability. “A hundred square feet can be a nice sweet spot,” says San Diego designer Corine Maggio.

Considering a master-bath overhaul and wondering what it takes to fit in everything you want?

7x8 bathroom layout