How to Fit a Cloakroom Under the Stairs

Considering creating a cloakroom?

Have you ever considered fitting a cloakroom under the stairs? Cloakrooms are a practical addition to your home. It keeps bathrooms free and are useful for individuals who do not find it easy to climb stairs

This space is an ideal location to utilise as a handy downstairs cloakroom. Whilst it is not impossible to achieve this, there are certainly some considerations that you need to consider before you commit to this.

Ascertain the viability

In the first instance, we would recommend that you seek advice from a specialist who will be able to assess whether there is scope to install a cloakroom under the stairs. It may be necessary to lay a new pipeline, if the soil pipes are not accessible. Ideally, you need to position your cloakroom within proximity to your kitchen or directly under the upstairs bathroom, meaning that the amenities can be shared while also minimising the cost of plumbing and installation. If new ones are required, there may be some additional costs to factor in. If you discover essential pipework or utility meters under your staircase, check to see if you can cover them with a waterproof covering whilst still being accessible.

Think about your angles

One of the most popular arrangements for an under stairs cloakroom is to tuck the toilet away under the sloping ceiling and the sink on the opposite wall. This is a practical arrangement as it provides you with the greatest head height at the area where you wash your hands.

Do the Twist

If your staircase twists and turns, you should still be able to utilise a cloakroom that sits under the stairs. All you need to do is to work with the space that you have got and be mindful about the areas where you need the most head height. The landing area where the stairs change direction and are the ideal location to provide a level ceiling for your cloakroom.

A different approach

Some houses have a different layout and in more modern homes, you may find that the staircase in your home is positioned at a different angle (typically with the door to the cloakroom being at the highest point) this provides an opportunity for the toilet to be nestled underneath the staircase with the sink being placed on the side wall.

Make it big

If your potential cloakroom space is rather small, why not see if you can create a bigger space by cashing in on any surrounding space, such as a cupboard. If you have a set of stairs that are open underneath, you can also utilise the space there too.

Super storage

You may want to use your downstairs cloakroom space and incorporate cupboards or maybe even a vanity unit. This is beneficial as it hides away the likes of toilet roll, soap and It also acts as a focal point, drawing attention away from the lowest point of the downstairs cloakroom to the highest point.

Reference:Houz
Photo Credit: Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects