Reducing bathrooms from 4 to 3 1/2
Started by Oxymoronic
over 12 years ago
Posts: 165
Member since: Dec 2007
Discussion about
As part of a renovation, I'm considering converting a full bathroom to a powder room and utilizing the space currently occupied by the bath to be an additional storage cupboard. The configuration means that it would create a deep cupboard off the entry hallway. We would be left with 2 master bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, two kids bedrooms served by 1 full bathroom and 1 powder room close to the entertaining space. However, from a resale perspective, others have cautioned that you should never reduce the number of bathrooms in a property. Either way, the bathroom is dated and needs renovating. The question is whether we replace the bath or create a cupboard from the space. Views?
Oxymoronic: I don't think it's possible to answer the question without seeing the floorplan, or at least knowing more about the position of that bathroom. If it's in a location where nobody is likely to ever take a bath or shower, converting it to a powder room is probably fine.
If you're concerned, trade the tub for a stall shower and it remains a "full" bath but you get a closet too, though smaller?
What neighborhood is this in?
Who lives in the place?
Do whatever works for you. You don't discuss the adequacy of your closet space, but for a family of four or more I can definitely see the value of extra storage. Three showers is definitely enough for up to six people. Easy for five.
Do you want a bathroom or a cupboard? There's your answer. Otherwise anyone who can afford a 4 bathroom apartment who worries about the impact of a bathtub on future resale value might be considered a bit of a...hmmm, whats the word.....? Oh nevermind.
From a functionality standpoint, your primary consideration should be what you really need for your household today. After that, it is definitely about protecting value in the resale, but that comes later, since I assume you'll be living there for a while (since you're going through the trouble of renovating!)
I see no need for a bath/shower near your entertaining space. A powder room is much more valuable in both near/long term. The storage seems more important to you and obviously is something that is lacking in a 4 BR apartment, so I'd go for it.
Most importantly in a family-sized apartment, is there a washer/dryer? To me, that would trump all. I'd make the full bath a powder room with washer/dryer/storage, which boosts the value of the home in every scenario.
One of our 4 baths was converted to a full sized laundry room. Far better us of space for us.
"I see no need for a bath/shower near your entertaining space."
Until YOU get a guest who shits himself. Then that shower comes in darn handy.
Matthew entertains "uptown style".