It’s the smallest room of the house, but one not to be forgotten. The cloakroom, downstairs loo, guest toilet, extra WC – whatever you call it – has some serious opportunity to pack a style punch and provide that much-needed practicality to a house. Especially in a home where we’re now in it more than ever – an extra bathroom will not go amiss in my book.

The best bit about a downstairs loo, I think (aside from the added bathroom bonus) is you can flex your design muscles and create a really clever little room. I’m thinking using a space that is wasted (read: a dumping ground) and turning it into a practical cloakroom you’ll use every day. I’m also thinking space-saving fittings, ways to boost light even when there are no windows and – the fun bit – going bold with your decorating choices. Just because it’s small, doesn’t mean the downstairs loo is boring.

@kbbmagazine journo Jill Morgan came up with some great tips, so I’ll hand over to her for the clever stuff…

Transform that dumping ground into a downstairs loo
Make use of wasted spaces such as under the stairs and hallway cupboards by turning them into a compact but handy washroom. Corner, wall-hung basins and close-coupled WCs – some projecting as little as 610mm – help create a workable layout.

Swap the door
Swapping a hinged door for a sliding design can help free up valuable floorspace. Jeld-Wen have a great selection of solid and glazed doors mounted on easy glide, track-less mechanisms.

Go multi-functional
Really short on space? Then go for an all-in-one toilet and basin design – where a compact handbasin sits on top of the cistern – such as the Iconic combined two-in-one washbasin + toilet from Victorian Plumbing. The cistern cleverly re-uses wastewater from the basin. You could also invest in the latest shower toilet – high-tech, cleaner and combining wash and dry functions in one. You’ll still need to wash your hands, though.

You may also enjoy: Design your cloakroom in 6 easy steps

Let in light
No window? No problem. Look for a mirror with built-in lighting and choose high gloss tiles and cabinetry to help reflect light round. Pebble Grey have a wide selection of LED designs, many of which are sensor activated.

Keep installation costs down
Keep plumbing costs to a minimum by installing the new WC as near to the existing soil stack as possible. If the run of new pipework is too long or sits at too shallow an angle you may need to install a macerator but do check that your chosen sanitary ware is compatible. Speak to your plumber for advice.

Featured image: iStock

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