Adding a half bath to your vintage home

The word is out, half bathrooms can increase your home’s value. In fact, according to the
National Association of Home Builders it can add 10.5 percent to an appraisal estimate. A full
bath even has a better return with upwards of 20 percent. Homeowners also choose to add an
additional unit because it provides an option for guests while still maintaining their desired level
of privacy.

Here is what to consider when planning a vintage style bathroom:

When to install another bath
Does your home only have one restroom? If yes, then this is one of the major reasons to add
an extra unit to your home. Also, consider this when you don’t have one on the ground floor or
if there are more bedrooms than baths in your home.

Where to put your extra restroom
“This Old House” has a few options to consider, but first consult with a contractor to see if your
desired solution is possible. In some cases, plumbing, draining and electricity factors can limit
your options.

Underneath a staircase – If you have a traditional staircase with enough space underneath, this
might work for you. Many times, the area has been converted into a closet or office, but it too
can work for a half bath.

Garage – Is your garage attached to your main house? If so, you may be able to carve some
space for a ground floor restroom.

Large storage closet – Some primary levels have an oversized closet for coats and other
storage items. If it can fit a sink and toilet comfortably, consider changing it into a half bath.

Take from another room – Depending on your home’s layout, you may be able to add dry wall
and make a washroom by taking away from a living room or another area on the ground floor.
Ideally the spot will be up to 4 feet wide and 8 feet long. Also, keep in mind that a hallway is a
good place for bathrooms, since some people may wish for privacy as they enter and leave the
unit.

Design scheme
Function – The primary focus of your half bath should be its functionality. A sink, mirror and
toilet are each essential for this room. Building codes may require ventilation, which can be
achieved with an overhead vent that turns on with the light fixture or a window. Sound
insulation may be an important component if your new half bath is adjacent to a living area.
You won’t want guests to hear the sound of running or flushing water, so place a noise
absorbent material within the walls.

Design – Choose a small vanity with hidden storage underneath. This way, if guests need to
access extra rolls of toilet paper, they won’t need to find you. When installing fixtures, consider
incorporating vintage faucets that match the rest of your baths. The versions that are fixed
directly to the wall save space while evoking style. Also, this room is a good place to
incorporate trendy vessel sink models.