Finding Hidden Inches

Wall mounted toilets, where the tank is housed in the wall instead of sitting on the floor, are often chosen for their clean, modern style alone, but space-saving low-projection units can provide the style while saving 6 to 10 inches or more in a small bathroom (some models with in-wall tank carriers can save as much as two square feet). They are also used extensively in universal design, easy to clean, easy to approach, and ideal for wheelchair access.

Some manufacturers offer extensive choices of wall mounted toilet sizes and configurations. EPA WaterSense labels (indicating high-efficiency toilets that save water but provide equal or superior flushing performance) are a minimum requirement for sustainable bathrooms, and dual-flush features lower water use even further. One feature that not long ago was considered a luxury amenity is becoming a must have: the slow closing seat and cover.

Toilets, those most basic of objects, can nonetheless play their part in the overall design scheme of the bathroom, and it can be an important part in a small space where every visual statement has to count. Both wall-mounted and floorstanding toilets are available in a range of curved or geometric forms, to match or contrast with other pieces. For example, one rectangular toilet unit pairs with a matching handrinse basin only 9-7/8 inches wide and 17-¾ inches deep. In fact, there are a wide range of basins available designed to provide ample hand-washing space along with a small but definite design note.

Wall-mounted toilets are also used frequently in universal designs, including ADA-compliant bathrooms (discussed below).

Wall-mounted toilets have been common in Europe since the 1960s. In-wall tank and carriers are available to be installed within 4-inch or 6-inch stud walls. Actual tank (HDPE) and carrier systems (16 gauge, powder-coated, structural steel) feature a limited lifetime warranty. The carrier itself is tested to withstand 880 lbs of weight. During installation, “mud guards” (included with delivery) protect the opening for tank access and pipes going in and out, allowing for a precise installation with ease. After the toilet is installed, maintenance of the tank is no different than for a common floor-standing toilet. Instead of lifting the tank cover, the actuator plate (push plate) is removed providing easy access to the tank interior. Valves can also be easily serviced.

Basins for a Tight Fit

Some basins that might be used for hand rinsing in powder rooms and guest bathrooms can work just as well full-time in a small main bathroom. As with other elements, the ideal washing area in a small space should be physically small but functionally versatile. Examples of available units include washbasins with vanity units, countertop basins with metal consoles, built-in washbasins with vanity units, countertop basins and matching consoles doubling as towel holders, furniture hand-rinse basins with rounded vanity units, and basins that match furniture consoles in various dimensions and styles, such as the barrel design vanity. Slim basins for narrow bathrooms or those with low or sloping ceilings can integrate shelves and still be less than 18 inches deep and project less than 10 inches. One slim basin has an angular diagonal shape to fit even the most challenging small space, corner placement or inconvenient layout.

Storage: Small and Smart

The basins that work best in the smallest spaces either match or are combined with storage space such as cabinets and shelves. Intelligent storage solutions are pleasant conveniences in powder rooms, but they are essential—and particularly challenging—in small high-traffic bathrooms used daily. Often, ingenious bathroom furniture is the only way to create storage space or useful surfaces.

Furniture should also look and be substantial, so that the small space still has a strong design personality. Some product lines offer a wide variety of real-wood veneers in many species, colors and grains, as well as moisture-resistant high-gloss painted surfaces. A full range of choices not only in physical dimensions but also in styles and finishes give scope to individual taste while fitting storage into tight spots.

For example, large wallboards can make use of otherwise wasted space above the toilet. Shelves with side fittings can add towel storage in spots that might otherwise be small, wasted spaces. Cabinets that provide ample storage space are available in sizes less than 10 inches deep. Where width is the issue, units only 15 inches wide offer practical storage and a choice of finishes.

For the ultimate in flexible use of space, mobile units can go where the space is even if that changes from minute to minute. Mobile storage units are also available in many sizes, finishes and styles, to hold their own with other furnishings in the bathroom, and many integrate shelves, drawers, towel rails, even seating.