Whilst they may be small in size, cloakroom bathrooms can cause big headaches when the time comes to update them. To help soothe away the stresses and strains, we’ll show you exactly what to consider when picking out your perfect cloakroom suite.
Providing everyday convenience for busy households and a welcoming space for guests, the humble cloakroom is a vital part of the modern home. For those of us lucky enough to have one, you’ll understand what a big impression it can have on friends and family alike. A clean, stylish and uncluttered cloakroom sets the tone for the rest of your home.
If you’re looking to spruce up this smallest of small spaces, this buying guide is invaluable. We’ll explain what you’ll need to buy, how to maximise the room available and demonstrate different styles, so you can make an informed decision before you buy your cloakroom suite.
First off, let’s understand exactly what a cloakroom suite is and what it consists of.
What are cloakroom suites?
Whilst a bathroom suite is usually made up of a toilet, basin and bath (or, in some cases, a shower enclosure), cloakroom suites usually only consist of a toilet and basin. The toilet can be slightly smaller in size, to allow for the small floorplan, while the basin can be a compact wall hung design or combined with a vanity unit to provide some much-need storage (as pictured below).
The Bath Co. Winchester and Camberley satin grey vanity suite brings timeless appeal to any cloakroom
Cloakroom suites don’t tend to include anything else, aside from this. However, you may find some cloakroom suites also include accessories, like a tap for your basin or a back to wall unit for your toilet. Cloakroom taps are usually smaller in size to fit smaller basins.
A cloakroom suite shouldn’t be confused with a WC suite, which (slightly misleadingly) refers to a toilet exclusively.
How can I make the most of the space available?
We’ve designed our cloakroom suites with space in mind so you can fit a compact bathroom under the stairs or in the smallest of pantries. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your space.
Use corners to your advantage with this Derwent compact round corner toilet
Wall hung toilet and basin
A great way to save on cloakroom space is to choose a wall hung toilet or basin. They’re incredibly compact in their design and create a minimalist look that leaves space underneath for easier cleaning and a roomier feel.
Make (cloak)room just about anywhere with the Foster cloakroom suite from Mode Bathrooms
Back to wall toilet
Back to wall toilets are designed so the toilet bowl is separate from the cistern. A great way to save space is to build the cistern into the wall, which will allow for a lot more foot room around the toilet.
Corner basin
Another great way to save space is to choose a corner basin. This unit uses very little floor space, opens up the centre of the room and can be tucked tidily into the corner of your room.
A great example of efficient space-saving furniture is the Clarity Compact white corner vanity unit and basin (pictured below). Featuring an integral basin, it is elegant and simple, yet is designed to be very practical and space-efficient. Corner fitting basins and toilets provide a clever solution by using up the corners of your bathroom, making the maximum use of space. By freeing up some additional wall space, it could also allow you to fit in a handy storage unit.
A corner vanity unit will help create space for your toilet and the odd pot plant
What types of styles work well in a cloakroom bathroom?
There’s more choice than you might think when it comes to choosing a style for your cloakroom bathroom. If traditional bathrooms are more your thing, you can still enjoy a perfectly designed and space-saving cloakroom suite.
Traditional style cloakroom
At Victoria Plum, you'll find plenty of traditional suite designs that are perfectly compact for any cloakroom. If you’re after a pedestal basin and close-coupled toilet, for example, there are lots to choose from, and you can mix and match units from different ranges to get exactly the look you want.
The classically-designed Camberley cloakroom unit can be complemented with a vintage grey toilet seat
Contemporary style cloakroom
If you’re looking for cutting edge design and modern style, then our contemporary suites suit your needs. Contemporary styled furniture contains sleek angular edges and looks great finished with contemporary metallic or chrome taps.
The Harrison suite (pictured below) is a great example of an on-trend design that’s ideal for a cloakroom. The close coupled toilet sits flush to the wall, with a narrow, space-saving cistern and curvaceous shape. The rimless design offers greater hygiene and the dual flush helps save water. Meanwhile, the curves are echoed in the space-saving corner unit, complete with on-trend slate grey gloss finish and ceramic basin.
For a chic, contemporary cloakroom suite, look no further than the Harrison collection from Mode Bathrooms
Budget cloakroom suites
For those who are working to a tight budget, doing up a first home or even renovating a property to rent, you’ll find plenty of low-cost cloakroom suites that certainly won’t break the bank.
In this instance, the Clarity collection is ideal, with a range of compact vanity units and ceramics that cost far less than you’d think.
The Clarity Compact white cloakroom suite comes complete with high quality close coupled toilet and space-saving vanity unit with basin
Shop cloakroom suites
At Victoria Plum, our range of cloakroom suites provides something for everybody, no matter what style you’re after, or how small your space is. Have a look at our full range to get inspired about converting your cloakroom bathroom into a fully functional and stylish space.
Cloakroom bathroom ideas and advice
No matter how small your space may be, we have plenty of big ideas and helpful advice here at Victoria Plum. Simply click on any of the links below:
