If you live in Chicago or the surrounding suburbs, you know that remodeling small bathrooms can be a challenge — but it’s one that pays off in a big way. Whether you’re in a vintage Chicago bungalow, a Skokie condo, or a North Shore townhome, a small bathroom remodel can completely transform how you use the space. Even the tiniest footprint can be functional, stylish, and high in resale value with the right approach.
In this post, we’ll share small bathroom remodel ideas inspired by real projects we’ve completed — including one with a sleek standing shower and another with a tub/shower combo. We’ll also cover small bathroom remodel cost considerations, the ROI of a bathroom remodel, and tips for finding the right bathroom remodeling contractors in Chicago.
Why a Small Bathroom Remodel Is Worth It
A modern small bathroom remodel does more than just freshen up a tired space. It:
- Improves daily comfort and efficiency
- Creates the illusion of more space
- Increases your home’s value
- Can offer one of the best returns on investment of any remodel
In fact, according to industry data, the ROI of a bathroom remodel often reaches well over 60%, and in competitive real estate markets like Chicago, it can help your home sell faster. For homeowners who plan to stay, a remodel can also make morning routines easier and more enjoyable.
Design Strategies for Remodeling Small Bathrooms
When working with tight square footage, every inch counts. Here are some proven small bathroom remodel ideas that make a big impact:
1. Choose the Right Layout
In one of our Northbrook projects with a tub/shower combo, keeping the tub allowed the homeowners to meet their resale goals while still creating a modern look. In contrast, some Chicago homeowners request a standing shower to open up the footprint, making the space feel almost twice as big.
Pro Tip: Decide early if you want to keep a tub, as this will influence plumbing, storage, and flow.
2. Go Vertical with Storage
Tall, narrow cabinets, floating shelves, and recessed niches maximize storage without eating up floor space. A good bathroom remodeling contractor can even build custom solutions that fit perfectly into your existing walls.
3. Use Light and Color to Your Advantage
Soft, neutral palettes and light-reflecting finishes make small spaces feel brighter and more open. Think white subway tile, pale gray vanities, or glossy marble-look porcelain. For a modern small bathroom remodel, consider a monochromatic scheme with subtle texture changes to add interest without clutter. If you love bright colors, stick with lighter hues to make your space feel as large as possible.
4. Opt for Glass Shower Doors
Frameless glass shower doors — like in a recent small bathroom shower we installed in a Chicago home addition — remove visual barriers and let light flow through the space. They also make the room look more high-end, which helps with resale value.
5. Upgrade Fixtures and Lighting
A wall-mounted faucet, floating vanity, and strategically placed LED lighting can free up space while making the room feel more luxurious. Layer your lighting with overhead fixtures, sconces, and even under-cabinet lights to brighten every corner.
Small Bathroom Remodel Cost in Chicago & Skokie
Costs can vary widely depending on finishes, labor rates, and whether plumbing or electrical work needs relocation. On average:
- Basic small bathroom remodel: $8,000–$15,000
- Mid-range modern small bathroom remodel: $15,000–$25,000
- High-end finishes & custom work: $25,000+
Keep in mind that the small bathroom remodel cost in Chicago may be slightly higher than the national average due to labor demand and building codes. However, choosing experienced bathroom remodeling contractors in Chicago can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure the job is done right.
Real-Life Small Bathroom Remodel Photos
Here are two recent projects that show what’s possible in a small space:
- Skokie Tub/Shower Combo
- Kept the tub for family functionality and resale value
- Added large-format wall tile to elongate the walls visually
- Painted the walls a light, but inviting color and installed light colored flooring
- Installed a smart mirror, and a white double vanity with room for storage sans bulk
- As this was a full home remodel, we also designed and remodeled a matching half-bath with no tub or shower
- The half-bath featured a sliding pocket door to maximize space in the adjoining entryway
- Chicago Standing Shower Build
- Installed a new shower with frameless glass doors for a seamless, open look
- The shower featured light colored, detailed green tiling, adding interest to the small room
- We also installed a gold colored rain shower head for a modern, bold contrast
These small bathroom remodel photos are proof that you can make a huge style statement in just a few square feet.
Working with Bathroom Remodeling Contractors in Chicago
Choosing the right contractor is just as important as the design itself. Look for bathroom remodeling contractors in Chicago or bathroom remodeling Skokie IL who:
- Have experience specifically with small spaces
- Offer design assistance to maximize function
- Provide a clear, detailed proposal with timelines and costs
- Have a strong portfolio and positive reviews
At Moller Builders, we understand the nuances of remodeling small bathrooms in the Chicagoland area. From initial design to final reveal, we help homeowners get the most out of their square footage without sacrificing style.
The Bottom Line
A small bathroom remodel can make a huge difference in your home’s function, style, and value. With smart small bathroom remodel ideas, strategic storage, and a modern design approach, even the tiniest space can feel open and inviting.
Whether you’re considering a small bathroom shower remodel or upgrading your tub/shower combo, working with experienced bathroom remodeling contractors in Chicago ensures your project is handled with expertise from start to finish.
Ready to start your small bathroom remodel?
Contact Moller Builders today to schedule a consultation. We proudly serve Chicago, Skokie, and the surrounding suburbs, delivering quality craftsmanship and designs that maximize your space — and your investment.
