It's important to maximize every square foot of your living space in New York City. Here are some space-saving renovation tips for your New York bathroom

If you've always lived in big-city apartments, you might have noticed that they aren't what they used to be, at least in terms of size. New York City's housing options tend to run small when compared to the size of similarly-priced dwellings in other towns across America.

Although New Yorkers might think that their apartments hold the prize for diminishing square footage, there are other cities whose apartments have, on average, shrunk an even greater amount. Still, apartment-dwellers in the Big Apple are no strangers to the challenges that come with less-than-large living.

A New York bathroom typically measures around 40 square feet or less. When compared to most modern American homes, which average a total of 2,000 to 3,000 square feet, New Yorkers don't have much to work with.

If you're smart, though, you can make even the smallest bathrooms sparkle and shine. Read on for tips to bring your New York apartment's bathroom to life!

Give Your New York Bathroom a New Look

Just because your bathroom isn't big on space, doesn't mean that you have to sacrifice style. With some effort, your space-challenged bathroom can still exude the luxury of its' roomier counterparts.

Here are some guidelines for giving your small bathroom a big makeover.

1. Luxury For Less

One of the good things about having a small bathroom is that you only need a fraction of the materials that you would if renovating a larger one. So, you can get by with spending less for more.

Look for budget-friendly ways to splurge, and you'll save even more. After all, New York apartments don't come cheap. In Manhattan, for example, average rents for a two-bedroom run around $3,665.

You can cut costs substantially by purchasing overstocked or discontinued remnants of tile, marble, and granite. Home remodeling retail stores will often sell closeout items and last season's showroom floor models at deeply discounted prices. You can find beautiful vanities, sinks, and more this way.

Another good option is to search seller sites, like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. Contractors and decorators list brand new surplus items on these sites for half-price or less.

With a little effort, you'll be able to furnish your bathroom with high-end luxury items that will look like you spent a lot more than you actually did.

2. Mirror, Mirror, On the Wall

When you're working with a small bathroom, you have to think of ways to maximize your space. Forgo a medicine cabinet and mount a large mirror on the wall. Not only is this a space-conscious move, but the reflection of a mirror tends to open up a room, creating the illusion of added space, as well.

3. Install a Floating Cabinet & Sink

Floating cabinets and sinks are stylish and less bulky than those with an attached base. Plus, you can make use of the space below, if needed, for extra storage options. A rolling cart or small shelf placed underneath the sink can make up for a lack of linen closets.

4. Replace an Outdated Bathtub

An outdated bathtub is often one of the biggest eyesores in an older bathroom. You'll be surprised how much a new bathtub or shower improves your bathroom's appearance.

Claw-footed bathtubs are a popular option for small apartments. If your bathroom doesn't afford the space of a tub, consider installing an extra-large walk-in shower in its place instead.

5. Repair Loose or Broken Tile

If your tiles aren't in terrible shape, or if you're on a strict budget, you might consider repairing loose or broken tile in lieu of replacing them altogether. 

Loose or broken tile can be easily repaired using a heavy-duty shower sealing agent. Not only will you save money with this option, but you can also perform the work yourself. And, this do-it-yourself project can be completed in no time without leaving behind a mess.

6. Monochromatic Minimalism

Monochromatic colors and an overall minimalistic approach is the definitive way to go. White or light gray are good choices and give bathrooms a clean, streamlined appearance. Plus, there are plenty of matching tile and marble options that you can use with these color schemes.

If you choose to use different shades, aim for minimal variances between hues of the same color family. Starkly-opposing colors make a small room appear cramped and choppy, while similar shades create an open, unified flow that's easy on the eyes.

7. Simple Storage Solutions

When remodeling your bathroom, consider easy-to-install creative storage solutions.

Baskets and crates can be hung on the wall to serve as instant shelves. A decorative wine rack hung above the toilet provides perfectly-sized compartments to hold rolled towels. You can also install high shelves for items that you don't use every day.

Organization is the key to keeping your new bathroom looking neat and orderly. Store toiletries out of sight in pretty baskets. A hanging shower caddy keeps your bathtub or shower free of clutter.

Store only your bathroom essentials in the bathroom. Toss bulky bottles and rarely-used items. Keep linens and cleaning supplies for other areas in your home elsewhere so you don't crowd what little space you have.

The Benefits of a Bathroom Remodel

Besides the obvious benefits of an updated space, remodeling your New York bathroom, and other areas of your apartment can boost its' value.

Apartment owners who are considering selling have even more to gain from a remodel. Not only can it increase sales profits, but an updated apartment will also have a greater chance of selling than neighboring properties that are out of date.

In fact, many people are motivated to remodel their property when getting ready to sell. Others enjoy buying fixer-uppers so that they can turn a larger profit after completing renovations.

If you're looking to buy or sell, check out our website for all of the latest New York real estate tips and news!

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