Water Closet: Definition, Meaning And Bathroom Ideas

Bathrooms are a necessity in any home, and toilets are an essential part of any bathroom. However, bathrooms can be upgraded in many ways. One of the most popular upgrades to add to a large bathroom is a water closet.

A water closet is an enclosed bathroom space that features a toilet, keeping it out of sight of the main bathroom area. Learn about installation costs, the pros and cons of water closets and get some water closet ideas.   

What Is A Water Closet?

Water closets are small rooms built within bathrooms that enclose the toilet into its own space. They are designed to contain the toilet and the sounds, smells and germs away from the main bathroom area.

Water closets allow someone to be using the toilet while someone else is accessing the main bathroom area. Water closets allow the user privacy and are often considered an upgrade over a more traditional exposed toilet.

History Of Water Closets

The ceramic toilet was invented by Thomas Twyford in England in the early 19th century. It was referred to as a “water closet,” and some toilets are still called water closets or “WC” in the U.K.

Water closets as we know them were developed in England in the early 1800s as a response to the realization that poor hygienic conditions could lead to the spreading of diseases. They were originally developed for public toilets and users had to pay a penny to use them. By the mid-1850s, it was becoming standard for middle class homes to be built with a water closet.

Now, toilets are obviously standard in homes, and toilet rooms ­– or water closets – are standard in many regions and new construction homes. In the United States, where large homes are common, it is very popular to add a water closet to the bathroom of the primary bedroom suite.

How Much Does It Cost To Install A Water Closet?

Average bathroom renovation costs vary by region and are determined by the level of work that you plan to do in your bathroom. If you have a very defined space to add a room around an existing toilet, you’ll be able to save money. For many spaces, you’ll have to change the layout a bit. Some of the costs associated with installing a water closet include:

• The toilet itself
• Building the walls around the enclosed space
• The door to the water closet
• Plumbing changes or upgrades
• Electrical work, including installing an overhead light fixture

Pros And Cons Of Water Closets

There are several advantages and disadvantages of installing and using a water closet.

Pros 

• Maximizes privacy: The top reason to add a water closet to your bathroom is for privacy. This allows someone to use the toilet privately while someone else uses the rest of the bathroom.
• Improves cleanliness and hygiene: There are mixed reports on whether water closets are actually any more hygienic compared to regular toilet placement, but they can definitely be handy in containing smells and sound and create a buffer to the adjoining room.
• Increases home value: In some markets, having a water closet might increase home value. Speak with a local REALTOR^® to determine if they are a good investment in your area.

Cons

• Can be expensive to install: There will be an additional cost associated with building an entire room around your toilet, compared to just placing the toilet in the existing room. This would include the cost of framing, drywall installation, painting, trim work and adding a door to the space.
• May only provide limited accessibility: A water closet and the associated doors and walls could make a bathroom space tighter and more difficult to maneuver, such as for someone with a walker or wheelchair.
• May take up too much space in your bathroom: Water closets require more square footage than independent toilets. If your bathroom is small, there simply might not be enough space for a water closet.

Water Closet Ideas And Design Features

If you have a water closet and want to give it some interior style, adding one of these features can be a great upgrade.

Shelving

It is popular to add shelving over the tank of the toilet inside a water closet. Because these are narrow spaces, floating shelves or upper cabinets can be used for a built in look. These can be used for practical storage – such as toiletries or towels – or to display decor.

Wallpaper or wall tile

Since water closets are small, enclosed spaces, they can be a great place for a bold wall treatment. Wallpaper and wall tile are both fun options for adding an unexpected pop of texture or pattern. Consider doing a treatment only 3/4 of the way up the wall for an even more unique look.

Molding designs

Molding can be used to add an intricate, luxurious feel to a water closet. Crown molding, wainscotting, shiplap or paneling are all great ways to add texture and interest to the small space without having to add extra colors or patterns.

Wall art

One of the easiest ways to decorate a water closet is with wall art. Hanging a piece of art either over the toilet tank or across the space from the toilet can be a great way to decorate the space. Since these are small rooms, it usually has the most impact to hang one larger piece of art rather than several small pieces.

Why Install A Water Closet In Your Bathroom?

Water closets are considered an upgrade and luxurious add-on to a bathroom. They are usually seen as something that isn’t necessary, but having it makes your space seem more defined. If your floor plan has the space for a separate toilet room, it can be a great thing to add.

Water Closet FAQs

Here are a few frequently asked questions about water closets.

Is a water closet different from a bathroom?

A water closet is a term typically used to describe a small room with a toilet in it that is separate from the rest of the bathroom. It may also have a sink, but it will never have a tub or shower. Typically, rooms with a toilet and a sink are referred to as lavatories.

What is the average size of a water closet?

Local code regulations vary, but in general a water closet should be at least 30 inches by 60 inches. However, it will feel more spacious if the space is at least 40 inches wide.

Why are water closets popular?

Water closets are popular because they offer privacy for people while they are using the toilet. It is also often considered more hygienic to have a toilet in its own contained area.

The Bottom Line

A water closet can be a luxurious addition to any bathroom. If you have the square footage and the budget to make it happen, it can be a great upgrade – and might even increase the value of your home. Be sure to browse other popular bathroom renovation ideas with Rocket Homes℠ or apply for a cash-out refinance to fund your bathroom renovation project.