Monday, May 12, 2008

A Bathroom Suite Can Add Value

The house that we bought had one small bathroom, but I had a vision for a bathroom suite that would make any one envious. The layout of the house made it possible to complete the vision in a practical way that had the added benefit of increasing the value of a home.

To make a great bathroom suite, there has to be plenty of room. A bathroom suite needs a dressing area, a tub, a shower, and any other features that tickle your fancy. Ours has his and her closets and pedestal sinks. There is a sitting area and a vanity. Its all about convenience and comfort. Best of all, our bathroom suite is completely separated from the master bedroom which means I dont have to be disturbed when my husband gets ready for work in the morning.

Anyone can create a bathroom suite in their own home. It just takes some creativity, a little faith, and a lot of money (or a little money and a lot of sweat).

1.Use existing rooms to make a bathroom suite. We had two bedrooms that were connected by a door (dont try to figure it out, I saw it and lived in it and it still doesnt make sense). After a little work with the chain saw, some new plumbing, and a smaller window, the larger room became the new bathroom suite.

2.Measure, measure, and then measure your measurements. I made a small diagram of the space and then made cut outs of the different fixtures that we wanted for the room (all to scale). I was able to place the fixtures around the room until I found the layout that would work. Even with all that planning, the sinks still had to have a last minute adjustment in the end.

3.Be bold; be daring, but be willing to take the heat. I got criticism from some people who didnt understand why I wanted a bathroom suite. One appraiser said that I should have left it a bedroom, but the next guy said it added a lot of value to the home. In the end, it all comes down to what I like and am willing to live with, not what they think I need.

A bathroom suite is a great addition to a home. It can add resell value, but will definitely add living value. If you are thinking about creating your own bathroom suite, think no more. Grab your measuring tape and give it a whirl.

Kathryn is a freelance journalist covering the home improvements industry. She has recently written a guide on how to install a bathroom suite and also reviews bathroom accessories.

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