12 Small Toilet Decorating Ideas

Fitting a cloakroom into a period property often means working with tight, awkward spaces—like under the stairs or in a dark hallway corner. These compact rooms may lack natural light and storage, but they offer a unique opportunity to get creative. With smart planning and bold design choices, your downstairs loo can become a stylish statement space that impresses guests and enhances your home.

We’ve gathered expert advice from interior designers, plumbers, and architects to bring you 12 essential dos and don’ts for adding and decorating a downstairs toilet in a Victorian home.

1. Do Choose the Right Location

The first step is deciding where to place your new WC. While the space under the stairs is a popular and practical choice, it’s not your only option. You could also consider converting part of a hallway, utility room, or an unused nook.

Karamii Clarke, Senior Building Regulations Designer at Resi, suggests placing the toilet away from main living or entertaining areas for privacy and hygiene. “Ideally, keep it separate from kitchens and lounges,” he advises.

2. Do Assess Your Plumbing First

Before any work begins, understand your home’s existing plumbing layout. Ryan Maskell, Managing Director at Mask Plumbing Solutions, recommends hiring a professional to locate water supply lines, drainage pipes, and vents.

This helps determine the most cost-effective spot for installation and avoids unexpected complications. Don’t forget ventilation—adding an extractor fan or ducting may be necessary to maintain air quality.

“Always work with a qualified plumber,” Ryan emphasizes. “It’s not a job to cut corners on.”

3. Do Budget Realistically

Adding a downstairs toilet from scratch isn’t cheap. Costs typically range between £2,500 and £4,000, depending on the complexity of plumbing, structural changes, and materials.

Ryan McDonough, Interior Design Expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk, explains that expenses include not just the toilet and sink, but also labor from plumbers, electricians, plasterers, and decorators. Upgrading doors or adding a window will also add to the bill.

And don’t skip a drainage survey—though it costs £300–£400, knowing the condition of your existing pipes can save you thousands down the line.

4. Do Plan the Layout Carefully

Efficient layout planning is key. Position the toilet against an exterior wall if possible, as this simplifies drainage connections and reduces costs.

According to Building Regulations, the minimum size for a downstairs WC is 700mm wide by 1,300mm long. Make sure your chosen space meets this requirement.

You’ll also need either a window or an extractor fan for ventilation—ideally both, for better light and airflow. Some local councils require the room to be wheelchair-accessible, so check your area’s regulations before finalizing plans.

And while old rules required two doors between a kitchen and toilet, today the only requirement is a hand-washing sink—so include one in your design.

5. Don’t Underestimate Lighting

Lighting can make or break a small, windowless bathroom. Recessed ceiling spotlights are a space-saving option, while flush-mounted fixtures work well in low ceilings.

For added brightness, install lights on either side of the mirror—or opt for a mirror with built-in LED lighting. If you have higher ceilings, a decorative pendant can add a touch of elegance.

Good lighting not only improves functionality but also enhances the mood and perceived size of the room.

6. Do Go Bold with Colour

Small and dim? Embrace it. Milena Vallier, Interior Designer at My Bespoke Home, encourages homeowners to use rich, dramatic colours like deep emerald green or navy blue.

“These shades turn low light into a feature, creating a cozy, luxurious feel,” she says. “This is your chance to be bold without overwhelming the rest of the house.”

7. Don’t Fear Pattern

The downstairs loo is the perfect place to experiment. “You can go wild with wallpaper or tiles without affecting your home’s overall aesthetic,” says Milena.

Think classic Victorian-style floor tiles, floral wallpapers, or geometric prints. For a maximalist look, combine patterned floors with bold wallpaper. For subtlety, pick one standout feature—like a patterned accent wall—and keep the rest neutral.

Pro tip: Extend the wallpaper to the ceiling for a daring, immersive effect.

8. Do Add Wall Panelling

Wooden panelling brings instant period charm and helps disguise uneven walls—common in older homes. It also allows you to introduce colour or texture on the lower half of the wall while keeping upper sections light.

Choose classic tongue-and-groove or shaker-style panels for an authentic Victorian look that’s both functional and stylish.

9. Don’t Forget Storage

Even a small vanity unit can keep essentials organized and reduce clutter. Modern compact vanities come in traditional designs, or you could repurpose a vintage cabinet for a unique touch.

If space is tight, consider wall-mounted shelves or a mirrored cabinet to save floor space.

10. Do Try Coloured Sanitary Ware

White isn’t your only option. Paul Dwyer of Thomas Crapper reports rising demand for coloured toilets and cisterns in shades like blush pink, sage green, and soft yellow.

Polished brass cisterns are also popular for their luxurious, statement-making appeal. Some brands even let you personalize the cistern with a custom message—making your loo the talk of the house.

11. Do Use Mirrors to Create Space

A well-placed mirror can instantly make a tiny room feel larger. If your loo has a window, position a mirror opposite to reflect natural light and brighten the space.

For windowless rooms, choose an ornate vintage-style mirror to add opulence. For a modern twist, go for a sleek round mirror with gold or black detailing.

12. Don’t Overlook Heating

A cold toilet is no fun. Nick Duggan of The Radiator Centre recommends Victorian-style radiators that blend period charm with modern efficiency.

Look for compact models with high heat output, or consider a heated towel rail for added warmth and functionality.

Infrared heaters are another smart option—disguised as mirrors or artwork, they’re energy-efficient and stylish.

Your downstairs toilet doesn’t have to be an afterthought. With careful planning and a dash of creativity, it can become one of the most memorable spaces in your home. Whether you’re adding one from scratch or revamping an existing cloakroom, these expert tips will help you create a functional, beautiful, and uniquely stylish WC that complements your Victorian home.

About TIEMA FAUCET

TIEMA FAUCET are a specialized manufacturer of faucets, mixers, taps, bibcocks, valves, Taizhou Zhengshing Valve Co., Ltd. is a specialized manufacturer of faucets, mixers, taps, bibcocks, valves, sanitary wares, shower accessories, drainers and so on. As a member of China Council of Promotion of International Trade, and International Commerce Chamber of China, we have independent import and export right.