# Small 5m2 Bathroom in an Apartment Block – How to Fit a Shower, Washing Machine, Dryer, and Plenty of Storage - URL: https://f-projektow.pl/en/mala-lazienka-5m2-w-bloku-jak-pomiescic-prysznic-pralke-suszarke-i-duzo-przechowywania.htm - ID: 252 - Blog: ybc - Published: 2026-03-11T00:00:00+00:00 A small bathroom in an apartment block can be one of the most challenging spaces to design. Limited space, the need to fit many functions, and the desire to create an aesthetic and comfortable interior mean that every centimeter matters. In this project, our task was to design a **bathroom of approximately 5m2** that would accommodate not only a shower and washbasin area but also a **washing machine, dryer, and functional storage cabinetry**. An additional advantage of the room was the window, which allowed us to introduce natural light and further enhance the cozy atmosphere of the interior. This bathroom project shows that even in a small space it is possible to create a **modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing interior design** where every element has its place. Projects like this demonstrate that good **interior inspiration** should go hand in hand with ergonomics, comfort, and thoughtful planning. ## What you will learn from this article - how to plan the functional layout of a 5m2 bathroom in an apartment block, - why a corner shower works well in a small bathroom, - how to find space for a washing machine and dryer, - how to design plenty of storage without overwhelming the interior, - which materials work best in a small bathroom, - how color and lighting influence the perception of space, - what we pay attention to as a design team when creating functional interior arrangements. ## Room analysis – a 5m2 bathroom in an apartment block The designed bathroom is located in an apartment in a residential block and has an area of approximately **5 square meters**. This size requires a very thoughtful approach to the functional layout. In such a space there is no room for random decisions, as every element affects everyday usability. At the initial stage, the most important thing was to define the real needs of the users. The interior was meant not only to look good but also to respond to the practical expectations of the household members. In the project we needed to include: - a comfortable shower area, - a practical washbasin zone, - a place for the toilet, - a washing machine and dryer, - a large amount of storage space, - an aesthetic and cohesive cabinetry design. An additional advantage of this bathroom was the **window**, which is extremely valuable in small rooms. Natural light visually enlarges the space, highlights the textures of materials, and improves everyday comfort. From the beginning we knew that the key solution would be **custom-made cabinetry**. Ready-made furniture often fails to use the full potential of a room, and in small interiors every centimeter counts. Our goal was therefore to create an interior design that combines ergonomics, aesthetics, and a well-organized composition. ## Design concept – how to fit everything into a small bathroom The foundation of this interior design was the combination of functionality with calm, natural aesthetics. We wanted the bathroom to avoid the feeling of being overcrowded, even though it includes many functions. For this reason the concept is based on simple forms, cohesive materials, and a limited color palette. In the project we focused on: - light tiles with a subtle stone texture, - warm wood finishes in the cabinetry and shower area, - black accents in fittings and accessories, - glass elements that do not visually close the space, - illuminated shelves and niches that increase functionality. This combination makes the interior modern, cozy, and well organized at the same time. Our goal was not to create only an attractive visualization but a realistic response to everyday needs. In small interiors the balance between aesthetics and practicality determines the quality of the final arrangement. ## Shower area – corner entrance and visual lightness One of the most important elements of this bathroom is the **corner shower with diagonal entry**. In small bathrooms this solution often proves more functional than a traditional cabin positioned in a standard way. It allows for more comfortable movement and better adapts the layout to the overall space. We used a glass enclosure with black profiles, which adds a modern character without visually overwhelming the space. Transparent glass keeps the shower zone visually light and helps the entire bathroom appear more spacious. ## Washbasin area – compact, comfortable, and aesthetic The washbasin zone was designed as a simple but highly functional composition. It includes a wall-mounted cabinet with drawers, a countertop, and a geometric vessel sink. A large mirror above the sink visually enlarges the space and reflects natural light from the window. ## Cabinetry above the toilet – additional storage space Vertical storage is essential in small bathrooms. For this reason we designed extended cabinetry above the concealed toilet frame. This solution provides additional space for towels, cleaning products, and everyday bathroom accessories while keeping the interior visually tidy. ## Washing machine and dryer in a small bathroom One of the biggest challenges in this project was finding space for the **washing machine and dryer**. In apartments located in residential buildings there is often no separate laundry room, which means the bathroom must also serve this function. In this project the appliances were placed next to each other on a raised platform near the window, creating a practical and visually organized solution. ## Materials and finishes The materials used in this bathroom were selected to ensure durability and visual harmony. - light stone-effect tiles, - wood-look surfaces, - white ceramics and countertops, - black fixtures and accessories. ## Color palette – light base with wood and black accents The color palette is based on warm neutral tones combined with natural wood and contrasting black accents. This combination helps the bathroom feel brighter and more spacious. ## Lighting and mirror Lighting plays a key role in small interiors. In this bathroom both natural light from the window and carefully planned artificial lighting contribute to a comfortable atmosphere. ## Design team comments *When designing this bathroom, our goal was to prove that a **small 5m2 bathroom in an apartment block** does not have to mean compromises between aesthetics and functionality. With thoughtful planning it is possible to combine many functions while maintaining visual order.* ## FAQ – frequently asked questions ## Can a 5m2 bathroom fit a shower, washing machine and dryer? Yes, with a well-planned layout and custom cabinetry it is possible. ## Is a shower better than a bathtub in a small bathroom? In many cases a shower saves space and improves everyday comfort. ## How can you visually enlarge a small bathroom? Use bright colors, large mirrors, and limit the number of materials. ## Is wood suitable for bathrooms? Yes, especially wood-look materials designed for humid environments. ## How can you increase storage space? Use vertical cabinetry, niches, and storage above the toilet frame. ## Is a window in the bathroom an advantage? Absolutely. Natural light improves comfort and enhances the perception of space. ## What colors work best in a small bathroom? Light neutrals combined with natural wood and subtle contrasts. ## Is black bathroom hardware practical? Yes, although it requires regular cleaning to maintain its appearance. ## Is an online bathroom design service worth it? Yes. It allows you to plan the entire space precisely before renovation begins. ## What should a professional bathroom design include? A comprehensive project usually includes visualizations, layout plans, material specifications, shopping lists, and technical drawings. This project proves that even a **small 5m2 bathroom in an apartment block** can be comfortable, functional, and visually appealing. With careful planning we managed to include a **shower, washing machine, dryer, and plenty of storage** while maintaining a light and organized interior. **[See more projects on the Fabryka Projektów blog](https://f-projektow.pl/en/blog/category/aranzacje-lazienki-i-inspiracje-lazienki-pomysly-trendy-i-praktyczne-rozwiazania.html).**