How to convert your Kitchen into a Bathroom and Vice Versa?

Many people are unhappy with the current layout of their homes, perhaps longing for a second, downstairs bathroom, or an extended kitchen. Perhaps you already have a large kitchen that could accommodate a small bathroom, or maybe you want to get rid of your existing downstairs bathroom, for example.

We will discuss how to convert your kitchen into a bathroom and vice versa, considering the challenges and possibilities.

The Benefits of a Downstairs Bathroom

There are numerous benefits to adding a downstairs bathroom, or a second bathroom in any part of your house. If you have the space to accommodate an additional bathroom then it can definitely be a worthwhile venture. Let’s take a look a look at some of the key advantages.

• A second bathroom can add value to your home.
• Utilize unused or redundant space in your house.
• Give yourself more privacy away from the rest of the family or guests.
• Less congestion when people want to use the bathroom at the same time in the mornings.
• Accommodate guests more easily.
• Give yourself a project so you can dabble in interior design and stamp your personality on the room.

Can I add a Bathroom to my Kitchen?

Adding a bathroom to your kitchen is entirely possible if you have the space, however, it may require a change to your plumbing layout, and build permits will need to be obtained. A bathroom that is connected to your kitchen’s plumbing system can also help reduce water consumption, as well as the range of benefits mentioned in the previous section.

Can I convert my downstairs Bathroom into a Kitchen?

Just like you can add a bathroom to your kitchen, you can also get rid of your existing downstairs bathroom to extend your kitchen. Again, this may require a rejig in terms of the plumbing, so always double-check what permits you need to complete the work.

As walls may need to be knocked down, plumbing refitted, and maybe even possible changes to your electrical network, there are risks that need to be considered. For an insight into how risks can be minimized during construction or renovation, read our blog post on the matter.

Can a Kitchen and a Bathroom share a drain?

It is possible to have a kitchen and bathroom that share the same drain, and in most cases, this can be a preferable option in terms of water-efficiency. However, it is highly advised to hire the services of a professional and reputable plumber to complete the work as this is not a routine task.

Shared drains are a common occurrence in apartments, but it is unlikely to be the case for most homes. Certainly, if you choose to install a downstairs bathroom that connects to the kitchen then it makes sense for them to share a drain.

Possible Challenges when adding a Downstairs Bathroom

There are 4 common challenges when installing a second or downstairs bathroom that you must consider when outlining your home remodeling plans.

1. Ensuring you have enough space

   When deciding where to place your additional bathroom, the most vital consideration is whether you have enough space, or how you will create enough space. Fortunately, there are workable options even if you only have minimal room. You could even consider a corner bath or walk-in shower as opposed to a full-length tub.

   Hiding the toilet system within the wall (concealed cisterns), or using recessed shelving is also an effective way to create more space.

2. Changes to your plumbing layout

   Arguably the most significant challenge when adding a second bathroom is how it can connect to your existing plumbing system. If you are reluctant to make changes to the plumbing layout of your home then there are a few options that could provide a solution.

   Macerating toilet systems, otherwise known as ‘upflush’ toilets send waste to a unit behind the toilet or into the wall. This waste is liquified using high-powered blades and is then sent to the main drain system via an add-on pipe. An innovative macerating system can also process sink, shower, and bath water.

3. Concrete Walls

   If your house features concrete walls then cutting into these walls to connect rooms can be costly. This is because you will need to consider the structural impact of the work and ensure it is done safely by professionals who have the correct equipment. Again building permits will also be required for such work.

   If this work is not completed correctly then it can cost a lot of money to rectify, causing cracks and a lack of support to your walls. One option to consider to avoid cutting into concrete walls is above-floor plumbing.

4. Adequate Water Supply

   Our final consideration is ensuring that you have an adequate water supply to your additional bathroom, including ample hot water if you want to install a bathtub. To check this, you should assess the capacity of your property’s water heaters and the condition of the existing plumbing. To guarantee this, older or low-capacity water heaters may need to be replaced, in addition to aging pipework.

   Addressing these four challenges early in the project can ensure that you avoid any hiccups further down the line which could result in additional expense and drag out the timeframe of the work.

5 Tips for Workable and Modern Small Bathrooms

To round off this guide, let’s take a look at 5 simple tips to achieve a modern and workable small bathroom.

• Adopt a light color scheme – Light colors in a bathroom can give the illusion of the space being larger than it actually is while giving the room a fresh feel.
• Move the medicine cabinet – Moving the medicine cabinet above the toilet can make a very small bathroom feel less claustrophobic.
• Use Mirrors – Mirrors can help to reflect light and make the room appear more spacious.
• An unconventional bathtub – A corner tub, or a normal-width but deeper bathtub can save space while ensuring you can still enjoy a good soak.
• A Glass Shower Wall – Installing a glass shower wall means natural light will not be obstructed and the room retains a spacious feel.

Thank you for reading. Feel free to get in touch with SOD Home Group for more information about how you can extend your kitchen or add a second bathroom.