RENOVATE & REPAIR
Transform underused space into a pretty and practical downstairs loo that will also add value to your home
There are countless ways that you can make good use of the space under your stairs. However, the most common, and often the most practical, is adding a downstairs loo. Not only is it functional but, according to Checkatrade, this room can add up to 5% to the value of your property.
CONVERTING THE SPACE
Transforming a cupboard or even an open space into a bathroom isn’t as challenging as it might appear. The first task is to figure out whether your space is suitable for conversion. The minimum recommended size for a toilet space is 700mm wide x 1300mm long, but these dimensions will feel quite cramped. According to Victoria Plum, the average cloakroom bathroom is closer to 1200mm x 1200mm.
‘The only thing that may restrict you is drainage as you need to be able to connect your larger toilet waste pipe to the existing system. Generally, kitchen wastes are a smaller connection, but as long as you are near enough to a pipe there is usually a way around this,’ explains Melissa Robinson, director and architect at MW Architects.
‘If drainage is a long way away from your proposed space, you can use a macerator in order to achieve a longer drainage run. With this in mind, checking drainage availability is the best way to start,’ Melissa continues. It is always advisable to consult a professional plumber, who will be able to figure out the best solution and ensure that the work adheres to the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme.
BUDGET
As with any project, budgets can vary widely. ‘The cost will depend on how much building work is required to construct the room and install the correct drainage,’ says Melissa. ‘As a starting point, we recommend budgeting around £2,400 to £6,000 to build a completely new downstairs toilet.’ Obviously, if you are just updating an existing space this figure will be significantly lower.
SOUNDPROOFING
Something that often gets overlooked when planning a bathroom is soundproofing, but it is vital, especially if the toilet adjoins a busy family room. ‘Installing high-density plasterboard to the subframe – also known as adding mass – is the main consideration in most soundproofing applications. This should be acoustically sealed to maximise performance ,’ says Jon Wright, director at Silent Treatment Soundproofing.
‘Adding mass will help to block sound from travelling beyond the cloakroom bathroom and it can be further improved with the addition of a high-density membrane,’ Jon continues. ‘Filling any cavities with semi-rigid mineral wool will also help to deaden sound and eliminate the “drum effect”.’
