Small space, big impact

A modest space with no windows doesn't sound like a designer's dream setting – here, however, clever thinking creates a light-filled, easy-to-use guest ensuite that looks as effortless as it does quietly luxurious

Although compact, the guest ensuite achieves a sense

Both the reflecting mirror and wall-hung nature of

With no external windows, an Illume skylight system

To preserve access in the narrow space, the

A wall-to-wall floor drain was installed to comply

Designed by Catherine de Meur Interiors

From the designer:

Designed as a guest ensuite, this compact bathroom brings together design innovation, spatial efficiency, and construction ingenuity.

Located at the centre of the home with no external windows, the room needed to offer a luxurious experience for guests while maximising light, movement and function within a tight footprint.

The biggest design challenge was the layout.

The owners initially hoped to leave the shower open, but building regulations required a screen due to the placement of the shower rose.

To preserve access in the narrow space, the team specified the smallest possible static glass panel, allowing water containment while keeping the room visually open and easy to navigate.

A wall-to-wall floor drain was installed to comply with water run-off requirements and avoid dividing the floor finish, allowing the same tile to be used throughout for a seamless result.

Originally, a mosaic tile was specified for the shower floor and walls, but supply issues required an on-the-fly design pivot.

The solution was to extend the main floor tile into the shower and wrap the curved shower wall in the existing vertical subway tiles, creating a seamless transition that visually expanded the space while simplifying detailing and maintaining a polished, cohesive look.

Curved corners added complexity, and the shower niche had to be relocated to a straight wall – another example of on-site adaptability that didn’t compromise the final result.

Behind the wall-hung toilet, a hidden cistern was paired with a tiled wall and mitred stone overhang, collaboratively detailed during the build to ensure a flawless finish without awkward tile cuts.

This small but refined element was designed on-site with the tiler, resolving differences in wall heights and preserving the vertical alignment of the tile set-out – a testament to strong builder–designer collaboration.

Lighting was another key consideration.

With no external windows, an Illume skylight system was installed above the shower, providing ambient overhead light that mimics daylight.

A motion sensor was installed in the guest's ensuite to address restricted access to the main light switch, which was located behind the door.

The sensor allows for convenient, touch-free lighting on entry, eliminating the need to reach behind the door and improving everyday usability in the compact space.

Although compact, the guest ensuite achieves a sense of spaciousness through clean detailing, thoughtful curves, and an intentionally restrained material palette.

Brushed nickel fittings and curved finishes complement the soft architecture of the home, with subtle tonal contrasts adding interest without visual weight.

This guest ensuite proves that small spaces can have big impact.

Every design decision was carefully considered – not only to meet practical challenges, but to elevate the user experience.

The result is a warm, welcoming bathroom that balances functionality with elegant restraint, tailored to both guests and everyday family living.