Stylendesigns
Has your household outgrown the shared bathroom upstairs? Or do you want to have a second toilet that is exclusively for guest use? Whatever the reason for your renovation, make sure that the process runs smoothing by following this guide to installing a downstairs toilet.
Consult with a professional
While adding an additional bathroom to your property is relatively affordable, it is not a task that is easy to perform yourself. Even if you are dab-hand at DIY, the plumbing required for bathroom installations is likely beyond you – and you really don’t want to risk getting it wrong!
Consulting with a professional plumber will be hugely beneficial to your project. Firstly, they can confirm whether or not your plans are possible and will help to identify a suitable space such as the cloakroom under the stairs.
Working with a professional also guarantees that the plumbing will meet the UK building regulations for home renovation.
Consider the key components
Before you begin the renovation project, consider the key components that will need to be included in the bathroom design.
Most important, of course, are the bathroom functionalities. This includes a toilet and sink as a minimum but might also extend to a shower or bathtub and towel rack if your space allows.
When you are choosing these furnishings, think about who will be using the bathroom. For example, if your bathroom needs to serve the elderly or those with a physical disability then accessibility will need to be a priority. You can investigate toilets with a raised seat and the option of a handrail along the wall.
As well as your furnishings, your downstairs toilet must have a light source and ventilation. If a window is not possible, make sure to include an extractor fan in your design to safeguard against damp and bad odours.
Finalize your design
Time for the fun part of the project – adding the fun flourishes to finalize your design! This will include trialling paint colours and/or wallpaper options, browsing different styles for your furnishings and fixtures, and choosing your flooring.
It is best to ensure that the design is in-keeping with the rest of your house. You should also avoid anything too garish if the downstairs toilet will be predominantly for use by visitors.
Remember to also prioritise function over style. Make sure that your fixtures are good quality and that they fit well within the space. You could also look into the option of special types of paint that are more resistant to wear and can be wiped down without danger or damage. For the floors, try to avoid carpet and choose a non-slip material that is easy to keep dry and clean.
