Here’s a history lesson for you…
Prior to the 19th century, a bathroom was a room in a home used strictly for bathing (or washing up). The majority of the population relieved themselves in outhouses or in the great outdoors.
It wasn’t until 1870 that the concept of “water closets” became popular in luxury hotels and wealthy residences. By 1890, public awareness about the importance of hygiene led homeowners to want water closets in their own homes. It wasn’t until the 20th century that it became common for home builders and designers to merge bathrooms and water closets into the same space.
Water closets are gaining in popularity once again, not just in large primary suites but in homes where there is only one bathroom. What is a water closet, and should you consider one in your bathroom remodel? Read on to find out.
What Is a Water Closet?
The term “water closet” refers to a small, closed room containing a toilet that’s situated within a larger bathroom. This space may or may not also have a small sink for washing up. The room may also have a sliding pocket door as a space-saving mechanism.
Advantages of a Water Closet
- Privacy: A water closet allows residents to use the toilet in privacy without shutting anyone out of the bathroom. One person can be using the water closet while someone else takes a shower, brushes their teeth, applies makeup, shaves, and so on.
- Hygiene: Housing the toilet in an enclosed space prevents particles and microbes from spreading when the toilet is flushed.
- Aesthetics: A water closet also serves to hide the toilet, making the rest of the space more aesthetically pleasing.
Things to Consider
Before deciding whether to add a water closet to your bathroom, there are a few important things to consider.
Most building codes dictate that a water closet must have a minimum space of 30 by 60 inches, which may not be possible in a smaller-sized bathroom.
You may need to move some plumbing to put the toilet in the best place to close off, which can raise remodeling costs.
If creating a fully closed water closet is not possible, you can opt for a space-saving variation like a partition or half-wall.
Are you excited to see if you can incorporate a water closet in your bathroom design? Contact the bathroom remodeling professionals at Pann Home Services & Remodeling. Our team of contractors, designers, and craftsmen all coordinate with you to plan and execute the bathroom of your dreams.
