Innovate to create
Installing an extra bathroom is the most practical way to meet the increasing demands of a busy household, and whilst finding a suitable place for it might appear a challenge, most homes have ‘dead’ areas that can be put to better use.
A box room or an oversized study both have the potential for conversion, either in their entirety or by dividing the space. Sometimes, a few square metres can be stolen from adjoining bedrooms to produce a ‘Jack and Jill’ bathroom introduced between the two and accessed by lockable doors, and a ‘knock before entry’ rule makes these shared en suites workable. Loft conversions and the spaces around attic bedrooms also offer scope for development, as areas under the eaves, too low for common living space, will accommodate a bath where less head height is needed.
Rooms created in this way tend to be small, but with clever planning, they need not feel cramped. Designer Joel Fry of West One Bathrooms points to careful balancing of space as key for those considering this step, highlighting that bathing options such as showers require thought and attention when set within niche dimensions. “The area outside is an important space,” he says, “and has to be big enough for you to stand and move around in comfort.”
According to Rebecca Maher, creating a feeling of space by cutting clutter is also essential. “Ensure you have enough hidden storage to tidy away products and toiletries,” she counsels, “and avoid having too many decorative accessories. Let the showpiece fittings you have chosen do the talking.” ►