Under-Stairs Bathroom with Shower

Small space bathroom design has gotten less clear-cut with all the plumbing requirements, ceiling height challenges, and fixture sizing flying around. As someone who has built bathrooms in every tight space, I taught myself the working side of utilizing under-stair areas. Today, I will share it all with you.

Space Assessment

Probably should have led with this material, openly—measure carefully before planning:

• Minimum head height (6’8″ for shower area)
• Width for fixtures and movement
• Access for plumbing and electrical

Layout Strategies

• Place toilet where ceiling is lowest
• Position shower at tallest point
• Use wall-mount sink to save floor space
• Consider pocket or sliding door

Fixture Selection

• Compact toilet (round bowl vs. elongated)
• Corner or wall-mount sink
• Neo-angle or corner shower
• Sliding or hinged glass door

Code Considerations

• Minimum ceiling heights vary by code
• Ventilation requirements
• Electrical GFCI requirements
• Access panel locations