How much does it cost approximately for an ensuite
Just a general enquiry as I'm moving house and one we like has a dressing room in the top bedroom and I'm wondering what sort cost and time is involved.
Answered by TrustATrader
Since you’re looking at a house with a dressing room that could become an en-suite, you’re already halfway there! Converting an existing space is a brilliant way to add a bit of luxury to your morning routine without the drama of a full extension.
Because every house is built differently, the "how" and the "how much" depend entirely on what’s hiding behind your walls. Here’s an overview of the things that will shape your project.
Making the Most of Your Space
Converting a room like a dressing room is usually a very smooth transition, but there are a few clever ways to keep the project simple and stress-free.
- Check your plumbing "neighbours" - see if the dressing room is near an existing bathroom or directly above the kitchen. The closer you are to existing water pipes and the big "soil pipe" outside, the easier (and often more budget-friendly) the plumbing work becomes.
- Think about the "big squeeze" - decide on a layout that leaves you plenty of room to move. It’s tempting to pack in a huge shower, but making sure you have enough "elbow room" around the basin and toilet is what makes an en-suite feel truly premium.
- Plan for plenty of steam - look into high-quality extractor fans from the start. Since many dressing rooms don't have large windows, a powerful fan is your best friend for keeping your new suite fresh and mould-free.
- Brighten things up with lighting - consider adding clever LED mirrors or spotlights. Good lighting can make even a small, tucked-away en-suite feel bright, airy, and much larger than it actually is.
What Determines the Project Scope?
Instead of fixed prices, it’s better to think about the different "levels" of a project. Your choices in these areas are what will ultimately shape the quote from your tradesperson.
- Picking your favourite style - choose between a simple, clean look or something a bit more "boutique hotel." Whether you go for standard taps or fancy concealed waterfall showers, your choice of fittings is one of the biggest factors in the overall project.
- Tiling from floor to ceiling - decide how much of the room you want to cover. Tiling just the "splash zones" is a great way to save time and materials, while a fully tiled "wet room" look offers a high-end feel but takes a bit more prep work.
- Adding those little luxuries - think about treats like underfloor heating or a heated towel rail. These are lovely to have on a chilly morning, though they do involve a bit of extra work for your electrician and plumber.
- Factoring in the finish - remember that the best en-suites are a team effort. You’ll likely have a plumber for the pipes, a tiler for the walls, and an electrician to keep everything safe, so the coordination of these trades is key to a smooth build.
Ready to Chat to a Professional?
The best next step is to have a local expert pop in and have a look at the space. They can give you a proper feel for what’s possible in that specific house.
- Bathroom Fitters - if you want one person to manage the whole transformation from start to finish, have a look at our vetted bathroom fitters.
- Plumbers - for a direct chat about where the pipes and waste need to go, check in with our verified local plumbers.
- Electricians - to make sure your fans, lights, and showers are all safe and sound, browse trusted electricians near you.