Map movement first
Draw the room to scale and mark the door swing, fixture edges, drawers, shower entry and the space needed to stand in front of each fixture. A layout that looks attractive in a rendering can feel awkward if doors collide or the vanity blocks the approach to the toilet or shower.
Use storage with purpose
Recessed medicine cabinets, shallow wall storage, niches, drawers and vanity organizers can add capacity without consuming much floor area. Avoid filling every wall; small rooms often feel calmer when storage is concentrated into a few deliberate zones.
Choose visual continuity
Continuous flooring, restrained material changes and a clear sight line can make a compact room feel less fragmented. Large mirrors can distribute light, but their size should be coordinated with sconces, outlets, faucets and cabinet doors.
Shower versus tub
A shower may create easier entry and more usable standing space, while a tub may still be important for the household. The right choice depends on who uses the room, the rest of the home and resale considerations in the local market. Do not remove a tub solely because a trend suggests it.
Think about the door
Door changes can have an outsized effect in a small room. Depending on the building and code constraints, alternatives may include reversing the swing, changing the hinge arrangement, or using a properly designed pocket or sliding solution. Verify privacy, electrical and wall-cavity implications before changing it.