Ann Boardman of Saniflo discusses ideas for flexible living spaces including flexible bathroom options
It’s well known that basements, lofts and unused spaces can be successfully converted into rooms that add value and practicality to a home. Even when a lack of traditional drainage is available, bathrooms and kitchens can be installed up in the attic or down in the cellar thanks to the use of pumps, macerators and lifting stations. These products can take black and grey water waste and pump it away to the nearest soil pipe via narrow discharge pipework which is concealed behind walls, in ceiling voids and under floorboards. However, it’s not as widely known that it is equally possible to add facilities, such as showers, to existing bedrooms and other rooms to increase the flexibility of the space.
There are many reasons why adding facilities in this way may be required. Rising property prices make it more difficult for young adults to own their own homes; many find themselves living with their parents for longer while they save. Privacy and independent living top the list for these people. Those with mobility issues, including the elderly, may need to move to a room downstairs in their own homes or in the home of a relative if they can no longer live alone. Care homes are often not an option – due to the expense – and it can often be more cost-effective to adapt a room and have home care.
Flexible bathroom options
Creating a small living area or study area is straightforward. It can also be simple to add bathroom facilities into these spaces to enhance privacy and independence. One solution is the installation of a walk-in shower cubicle that can be easily added against a wall or in the corner of the room by tapping into an existing water supply. The beauty of a cubicle is that it requires no tiling or grout and can be installed right over the top of existing décor.
All-in-one units include a low-level, non-slip tray which is fitted straight on to the floor whilst internal panels slot over the upstands of the tray to create a watertight space. External panels and door, shower valve and shower head complete the assembly. Specialist versions include fold down seats, grab rails and magnetic shower fixtures which are both light and easy to use. As well as being quick to install, cubicles are – importantly – quick to remove once no longer required. A WC and basin can be installed into the same space and one of a number of pumping solutions can take the waste from all fittings if needed. Rectification to the original area is usually minimal and the room can be efficiently returned to its former purpose.
Case studies
One project – for an elderly end-user – included the installation of a shower cubicle, WC and basin along one elevation of a dining room that was being converted into an accessible downstairs bedroom.
The room adjoined the family conservatory which in turn became an accessible dining room to take meals and enjoy time with family. The open plan room retained a spacious, yet private feel and offered bathing independence. Once the room was no longer required, the products were stripped out and the space reverted to its former use.
Another project involved the conversion of a study into a downstairs bathroom for a man who had had an accident that affected his legs. His bedroom was temporarily relocated to ground level and the converted shower room meant he could avoid stairs. He and his partner decided to retain the facility even after recovery, as a second bathroom.
Installation benefits
Supplied as a single package, cubicles can be delivered and assembled ready to use on the same day. They also provide a hygienic solution; all panels have a coating which stops dirt and grime adhering to the surface and eliminates limescale build-up. Because no tiles are required there is no grout to discolour or deep clean.
Thanks to the advantages of self-contained cubicles, they have also become popular in another sector of the market; that of property guardians. Empty buildings are converted into basic living spaces while waiting for change of use permission. The spaces are rented out at cost-effective rents to tenants who effectively ‘guard’ the properties; making them less prone to squatters and vandals. The installation of shower cubicles in these buildings is a quick albeit temporary solution to providing high quality bathing facilities to tenants.
Shower cubicles – thanks to simple and quick installation – can provide a flexible solution in all sorts of situations.
Ann Boardman is head of marketing and product development at Saniflo