Tips For Creating An Under-Stairs Cloakroom

Having a second toilet is a great addition to your home. Not only does it ease queues for the bathroom, but it can also add value to your property. The most obvious place is under the stairs, but you can easily create a cloakroom in any unused downstairs space. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Make the most of the space

Look at the cupboard, room or area you are thinking of converting; measure floor space and be realistic about what will fit. As a bare minimum you will need a toilet, basin and somewhere to hang a hand towel. If space is really tight, the more you cram in the more claustrophobic it will feel.

Head room

In tight spaces the ceiling height can vary – especially when you are under the stairs. Position the basin against the tallest wall or in a corner and the toilet can placed under the slope of the stairs. Make sure the tallest member of your family can stand upright when washing their hands and that men can stand to use the toilet, too.

Get connected

All toilets must be connected to the soil pipe. If this is not possible you can use a macerating pump which moves waste into the soil stack. You also need a water supply for both the basin and the toilet. Speak to a plumber to find out where the extra pipes will run – you may need flooring lifted in the hall and other rooms to allow this to happen.

Buying a basin

There are many compact basins available that are specifically designed for small spaces such as the Corner Basin range. Go for a wall-hung basin or small corner basin to maximise space.

Fresh thinking

All domestic toilets need adequate ventilation. If there is no window (which is more than likely the case) you will need to fit an extractor fan. Again, ask a professional for advice.

Final fixings

Don’t forget about bathroom lighting and other finishing touches. Choose lighting that makes you forget you are in a very small space and paint the walls in light, neutral shades as well as adding a mirror to reflect as much light as possible. Another space-enhancing trick is to run the same flooring that is in the hallway into the toilet.