Many homes have a dark and dusty cupboard under the stairs which is full of junk, or perhaps an empty utility room that is rarely used. One way that you can make better use of this space is by adding a downstairs bathroom, which can increase the value of your house. There are many benefits to doing this, from reducing queues for the bathroom to saving guests from having to traipse upstairs and hunt through rooms to find the family bathroom. We’ve put together a handy guide of the key things to remember when adding a new downstairs bathroom. From selecting the right fixtures to ensuring proper ventilation, careful planning is essential to create a functional and stylish bathroom. Furthermore, considering accessibility features can make the space more user-friendly for all family members and guests. Here’s what you will find in our guide:
Call in the professionals
Adding a downstairs bathroom can be an exciting project to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your home. However, proper planning is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful addition. In this regard, you can think of consulting a plumber in Sydney (or wherever you live) before making any changes. They will be able to advise you on how the current plumbing and drainage facilities will affect the layout and positioning of the new bathroom, and whether extra work will be required such as moving walls and adding stud work.
Additionally, they can provide valuable insights on the best fixtures and materials to use, ensuring the new bathroom is not only functional but also aligns with the overall design and style of your home. If you are struggling to find a suitable plumber then you may want to check out websites similar to https://cityplumbingandrooter.com/plumbing-services-in-pacific-palisades-ca/ or you may have some friends who can give a suitable recommendation if preferable. Take detailed measurements so that you know exactly how much space you have to work with before making any purchases.
Choose the right suite
Find a smaller toilet, such as a short projection back-to-wall model which intrudes less on the limited space you are working with. Choosing the right basin is also an important decision. A corner basin is a good use of space in a small bathroom, and a slim basin unit with built-in cupboards will ensure you have storage space available.
Alternatively, a wall-hung basin will help the room to look more spacious, as having more of the floor on show can help a small room to feel more open. You can then add a narrow shelf if storage is required. Add a hook for a hand towel and that really is all you need- if you try to fit too much into a small space, it can start to feel claustrophobic. If you are still unsure about the bathroom space utilization, you can connect to a builder to get it designed for you and then call the plumber to do the finishing job of fixing everything in place. You may click here to find the plumbers if you happen to live somewhere in Stillwater, MN, USA.
Don’t overlook your bathroom’s drainage system
When you are adding a downstairs bathroom, it’s important not to overlook the drainage connections. Proper drainage is essential for preventing any kind of water damage and ensuring the new bathroom functions efficiently. You need to assess how the existing plumbing system will handle the new setup and determine if any modifications are necessary. This might involve installing new pipes, relocating existing ones, or even adding a pump if your drainage system is positioned below the main sewer line.
Nevertheless, if you discover that your existing plumbing or drainage system isn’t adequate for your new downstairs bathroom, and you require a completely new drainage setup, investing in a new Drainage Connection from Express Drainage Solutions (or a similar firm) could be a smart move. An upgraded drainage system can help you avoid issues like clogs, unpleasant odors, and possibly costly repairs in the future. Consulting with a specialized drainage company will guide you through the process, ensuring that your new bathroom is equipped with a reliable drainage system that adheres to all necessary standards.
Make the space feel bigger
Your decorating choices can go a long way to helping a poky bathroom feel more spacious. If your bathroom doesn’t include a window, use strategically placed spotlights to ensure the whole space is lit up. Opt for lighter colours on walls and floors to brighten up the room. If you are using tiles, consider large format tiles, as fewer grout lines will look smoother and not break up the space as much. You could even use the same tiles on the floor and ceiling, as the continuity will help the room to appear larger. Adding a mirror can also help the space feel bigger, as it bounces light around the room.
It is easy to be put off by the amount of work required in adding a bathroom, but following our guide will help you to find that it is a worthwhile addition to any home.