Trendy Panel Bathroom Ideas for Your Home

Key Takeaways:

• Light colours, mirrors, and large tiles can make small bathrooms feel bigger.
• Floating vanities and wall-mounted storage maximise floor space.
• Frameless glass showers and corner or compact bathtubs are space-saving trends in NZ & AU.
• Seal joints properly using Soudal All Purpose Silicone for a mould-resistant, durable finish.
• Coloured silicone adds a designer touch and complements tiles and fixtures.

Thinking of renovating your small bathroom? Whether you live in a compact apartment or have limited space to work with, the right bathroom design ideas can make a big impact. In Australia and New Zealand, panel-style bathrooms are common in older homes and units but with smart design choices, they can feel modern, stylish, and spacious.

In this article, we’ll explore the most popular panel bathroom ideas trending across NZ and AU. From layout tips to smart storage and design hacks, here’s how to transform a small bathroom into a relaxing, functional retreat.

Small Bathroom, Big Impact: Use Light & Layout to Your Advantage

Opt for Light Colours

Bright, light-coloured tiles are your best friend in a small bathroom. Whites, soft greys, and light beige tones reflect more light, making the space appear larger and more open. In NZ and AU homes, this trend aligns perfectly with our love for coastal and minimalist design styles.

Pro tip: Pair white tiles with light-toned timber or matte black fixtures for a modern contrast.

Maximise Light with Mirrors

A large mirror not only serves a practical purpose but also visually doubles the space by bouncing light around the room. In tight layouts, consider wall-to-wall or floor-to-ceiling mirror panels for maximum impact.

Modern Tiles: Less Grout, More Style

Large-format tiles are a major trend in contemporary Australian and Kiwi bathrooms. With fewer grout lines, they create a seamless look that makes any space feel clean, modern, and more expansive.

• Choose matte or satin finishes for a softer, more natural feel.
• If you want texture, go for subtle patterns or stone-look porcelain tiles.

Top Tip: Consider floor-to-ceiling tiling to visually stretch the room and make cleaning easier.

Smart Bathroom Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

Floating Vanities & Wall-Mounted Storage

Floating vanities create the illusion of more floor space while offering practical storage for toiletries and cleaning supplies. For even more vertical storage, add:

• Mirror cabinets (great for hiding clutter)
• Floating shelves above the toilet or door
• Tall, narrow storage units in unused corners

Under-Sink & Overhead Solutions

Use the dead space under the basin for a drawer-style cabinet, and add overhead cabinets above door frames for towels, spare toiletries, or backup bathroom essentials.

Choose compact designs made for small bathrooms, many Australian and NZ brands now offer space-saving bathroom furniture specifically for apartment or unit living.

Wall Hooks & Rails: No-Drill Solutions

If you’re renting or just want to avoid drilling into tile, self-adhesive hooks and towel rails are perfect for hanging towels, robes, or toiletry bags. Just ensure they’re waterproof and made for wet areas, so they don’t peel off from steam or splashes.

Yes, You Can Still Have a Bathtub

Even in smaller homes, a compact bath is still a popular choice, especially for families or anyone who loves a good soak. Modern, space-saving bathtubs are now widely available in NZ and AU, including:

• Asymmetrical tubs that offer full comfort without eating up floor space
• Back-to-wall or corner tubs that open up the rest of the room

Pair with a frameless glass bath screen to keep water in and light flowing, it’s a popular design choice across Auckland, Sydney, and Melbourne.

Shower Design Ideas for Small Bathrooms

If a shower is more your style, or if space simply won’t allow for a bath, you’ve got plenty of stylish options:

Frameless Glass Showers

One of the top bathroom trends in NZ and Australia is the use of frameless or single-panel glass showers. They look modern, allow light to flow freely, and make cleaning a breeze.

• Opt for clear glass to maintain an open feel
• Corner showers are perfect for tight layouts
• Consider a recessed shelf in the wall (a niche) for shampoo and soaps

Add a Compact Shower Stool

Place a small timber or plastic stool just outside the shower, it’s great for storing towels or for sitting while drying off. It’s a detail that adds both function and spa-like comfort.

Step-By-Step: How to Silicone Your Bathroom Like a Pro

Properly sealing your bathroom is key to preventing mould and water damage. Here’s how to apply silicone like a pro:

1. Clean & Dry Surfaces
   Remove all dust, grime, and moisture. The surface must be completely dry before applying sealant.
2. Mask the Edges
   Use masking tape to line the edges for a clean, straight finish.
3. Cut the Cartridge & Fit the Nozzle
   Use a cartridge cutter and cut the nozzle at the angle and width you need.
4. Apply the Silicone
   Slowly run the silicone along the joint, pressing the trigger evenly for consistent flow.
5. Smooth & Remove Tape
   Use a silicone tool to smooth it out. Peel the tape immediately and clean up the edges.

Pro Tip for Applying Silicone Sealant:
If you’re replacing old, mouldy silicone, make sure every trace of the old sealant is completely removed first. Silicone won’t adhere properly to existing silicone, which can lead to peeling and leaks down the track. Use a dedicated Soudal Silicone Remover to help break it down, and scrape it off carefully with a plastic scraper or utility knife.

To prevent mould from returning, thoroughly clean the joint with bleach to kill any remaining spores, then wash the area with soapy water to remove any residue. Rinse well, and allow the surface to dry completely before applying new silicone.

Taking the time to prep the surface properly is key to a long-lasting, mould-resistant seal!

Use Coloured Silicone for a Designer Touch

Why settle for white? With coloured wet area silicones now available across Australia and NZ, you can match the sealant to your tiles or fixtures, think grey, beige, chocolate, or even charcoal.

Soudal’s All Purpose Silicone range is a great example, offering durable, mould-resistant sealants in stylish shades that enhance your bathroom’s overall look.

Renovating a Small Bathroom in NZ or AU

With thoughtful planning and the right product choices, even the smallest bathrooms in New Zealand or Australia can be stylish, practical, and on-trend. Whether you’re doing a DIY makeover or working with a bathroom renovation expert, these ideas can help you transform your panel bathroom into a beautiful, functional space.

Need help sourcing quality bathroom sealants in your area? Let us know, and we’ll point you in the right direction.

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