Water Closets - To be or Not to be?
Those little rooms that exist to take care of your “business” - just how necessary are they? Are you for them, against them or just plain don’t care?
Since everyone desires their own level of privacy, to spend your money on a water closet is sometimes questionable. If you fall on the “I definitely like my privacy” side then you’re probably opting for the water closet. If you’re unsure, however, read on!
First option- a simple pony wall separating the vanity from the toilet. This has a couple of advantages. It provides an element of privacy while mostly hiding the toilet - plus it finishes off the end of the vanity allowing for a more quality, “built-in” look.
Third Option - A full alcove. This is essentially a water closet without the cost and nuisance of a door. In comparison to the full wall option, the alcove is slightly larger with more space from the back of the wall to the front of the alcove opening. Keep in mind, water closets are very small spaces so eliminating the door can certainly be an advantage.
When designing for smaller spaces, our goal is to look for ways to reduce the footprint. Eliminating water closets is one of the places we look - if you can give up a little privacy. For us, we’d rather use the cost of building out a water closet for other finishes such as the floor or vanity. For you it may not be the way to go - this is one of the decisions you’ll have to weigh when finalizing the design of your new “smaller” home!
Most water closets are extremely small and can feel, well, downright claustrophobic. They can be so small that I’ve bumped my head on the door reaching for the toilet paper that has been mounted to the back wall. Great, now I’m claustrophobic AND seeing stars! On the flip side, there can be zero privacy with the toilet placed at the end of the vanity. Not the worst option, but if you desire some privacy and/or just don’t like seeing the toilet all the time, there are better alternatives.
Second Option - Build a full wall, preferably in-between the vanity and another wall. This provides privacy and has the advantage of giving a sense of “shelter” if a soffit is also added. It fully hides the toilet from most angles and also gives the vanity a “built-in” look.
