As it’s becoming increasingly common for homeowners to want to renovate the unused area under their staircase by making toilets under stairs, we are here to give you some tips and inspiration so that you, too, can make the most of your home’s every corner.
Depending on the room’s footprint, you can install a straightforward, practical suite with a sink and toilet or opt for a cloakroom suite. We are here with some of the best ideas for fitting a new toilet in your house to motivate you to transform that unused space into a luxurious, functional under stairs toilet using our expertise.
Here at our renovation company, we’ve also answered your questions to help give you that extra bit of guidance and get you on your way to having great under the stairs toilet ideas.
Under Stairs Toilet Ideas
Most houses have a staircase, so transforming that unused space into a small toilet under stairs is a great way to make the most of your home’s square footage. On top of the benefits of installing a new toilet under stairs, it’s also worth noting just how practical they are; if you have children or elderly family members, a conveniently located toilet is an excellent addition to your house.We have a range of toilet under stairs ideas designed with small spaces in mind, so look at how you can strike a balance between functionality and style. When decorating, we recommend avoiding using dark colours or excessively ornate patterns, as this will make the walls feel closer together and lead to an overly crowded feel. Neutral colours and whites paired with simplistic fixtures will create the illusion of spaciousness.
Open Up The Space With Light Colours
Most under-stairs storage cupboards tend to be quite dark and poky, with no window to bring in extra light. Make a small bathroom space feel bigger by using pale colours and glossy tiles that will reflect overhead light and bounce it around. Tiles are a practical choice for walls near a basin.
Start with a pale colour at the bottom to add a sense of space, introducing a darker shade as you go upwards. Tiling on the diagonal will add a pop of pattern without making the space feel too busy.
Try Practical Panelling
A traditional wall panelling idea will give your toilet under stairs instant period grandeur, and the character the space is probably lacking. And, in spaces like toilets under-stairs, where there can be lots of awkwardly-placed plumbing, panelling is an easy way of hiding any unsightly pipework.
Don’t shy away from using dark colours in an enclosed space. Dark green, navy, grey or even black can look ultra stylish and using the same colour throughout can blur the edges of the room, giving the illusion of more space.
Save Space With All-In-One Toilet and Basin
If space under the stairs is limited, squeeze more into a tiny under stairs toilet by opting for a combined toilet and wash basin. Neat and compact, this clever all-in-one unit has a hand basin that sits on top of the cistern section, so that the whole unit takes up minimal floor space.
Another bonus of this arrangement is that your plumbing is all in one place, minimising the amount of exposed pipework you’ll need to box in and the best loft conversion stairs into a bathroom.
Squeeze in a Toilet on a Landing
If your home layout covers several levels, why not consider installing a toilet under the stairs on one of the upstairs floors, to ease pressure on the family bathroom. A narrow downstairs toilet idea has space for a neat wall-hung basin, with a compact loo tucked under the stairs.
Opt for a colour scheme that complements your decor for a co-ordinated look. Choose floor and wall tiles that echo the floor covering so that one space flows seamlessly into the next.
Small Toilet Under Stairs Ideas
If you are looking for small under stairs toilet ideas you are at the right place. A few ways to maximise your space when installing suite items, such as a toilet under stairs, is the ideal thing. Some of the ideas include the following:
Try Using Wall Mounted Sink
If you want to save space, wall-hung fixtures are a great solution. A wall-mounted sink is attached to the wall without a vanity unit or pedestal below it. Suspended units give the illusion of your room being more spacious as there’s an increased amount of floor visible. They will only protrude into your space as far as a regular suite item, making them highly effective under-stairs.
Use Built In Mirror With Storage
When working with a restricted amount of square footage, the last thing you want is clutter taking up that all-important space. Opt for a mirror that either incorporates shelving or conceals a storage cabinet. Mirrors are not only functional fixtures but will make even the most confined of spaces seem more spacious and airy; they create the illusion of the WC being more expansive while simultaneously reflecting natural and artificial light around the room.Here at the best bathroom renovation company – Chaboun Construction Company we have a variety of mirrored cabinets to suit every style. There are options that are minimal in size, provide a robust storage solution, and have an elegant mirrored glass door.
Toilet And Sink Combination
A combined toilet and sink is a great way to save space. By having both the WC and washbasin in one single unit, you’ll be able to utilise every square foot available and even open up the possibility of fitting other pieces, such as a shower enclosure or a half-bathtub. Designed for cloakrooms and en-suites, combined units are a brilliant under-stairs toilet solution.
Toilet Under Stairs Ideas And Things To Consider First
When it comes to fitting a brilliant toilet under-stairs, there are a few ideas/things to consider. First of all, you’ll need adequate ventilation and want to identify any potential construction issues you might encounter when renovating the space. Once you have made these considerations, you can select specific suite items, including a bathtub too having other ideas for bathtub installations.
Measurements Under The Stairs
The footprint beneath your staircase will play a significant role in determining whether it will be plausible to fit a suite there. For a comfortable layout, we recommend that you only renovate spaces measuring a minimum of 70 cm in width and 130 cm in length.
Make sure to account for the sloped ceiling, which comes from the shape of the stairs above, too – you want to stand upright with ease to prevent using the toilet from becoming an awkward and challenging experience each time.
Ventilation And Plumbing for Toilet Under Stairs
As it’s unlikely that your toilet under-stairs will have a window, you will need to ensure adequate ventilation. We recommend fitting an extractor; this will reduce any issues, such as dampness resulting from condensation or excessive moisture.
You’ll be able to choose between wall-mounted extractor fans and ceiling extractors depending on your preference and the layout you’re working with. We suggest opting for an extractor that automatically powers up when the lighting is switched on for added convenience.
Because the area under your stairs is unlikely to have been designed to include the plumbing required for a WC, you may need to fit the water supply by lifting any floorboards and installing new pipes. Likewise, you’ll need to install a pump to handle the WC waste.
Make sure that you hire a reliable company for all this who can effectively carry out the necessary installation you require – this will reduce the chances of any unforeseen issues in the future too.
FAQS
- Can I have a toilet under my stairs?
Yes, you can have a toilet under your stairs, but there are several factors to consider. It depends on the available space, plumbing, and ventilation. The area under the stairs must have enough room for the toilet, a small sink, and to ensure proper drainage and ventilation. You may need to consult with a professional to ensure the space is adequate and complies with building regulations.
- Do you need planning permission to put a toilet under the stairs?
In the UK, putting a toilet under the stairs generally falls under “permitted development,” meaning you don’t need formal planning permission if you’re not altering the structure or size of the building.
- How much does it cost to put a toilet under the stairs in the UK?
The cost of installing a toilet under the stairs in the UK can vary widely depending on the complexity of the work, the existing plumbing, and the finishes you choose. On average, costs can range from:
- Basic installation: £2,000 to £4,000
- More complex installation: £4,000 to £6,000 or more
