If you’ve ever tiptoed across a cold landing for a midnight bathroom visit, you’ll know how much of a luxury it feels to have your own en suite bathroom. Whether you’re renovating a master bedroom or adding smaller en-suites for...
If you’ve ever tiptoed across a cold landing for a midnight bathroom visit, you’ll know how much of a luxury it feels to have your own en suite bathroom. Whether you’re renovating a master bedroom or adding smaller en-suites for convenience, creating a private en suite can transform your personal space and even boost your property value.
But how much does it actually cost to add a small ensuite to a bedroom? Let’s break it down—covering everything from design options and typical bathroom suite prices to installation costs and clever space-saving ideas for tighter spaces.
Why add an en suite?
Adding an en suite bathroom is one of the most popular home upgrades in the UK—and for good reason. It offers privacy, comfort, and that extra sense of luxury that makes a house feel like a home. An en suite also adds practical value. Whether you share your bathroom with a family or guests, having your own private bathroom attached to your bedroom eliminates queues, noise, and clutter.
Average cost of adding a small ensuite
For most homes, the cost to add a small en suite ranges between £3,000 and £8,000, depending on the suite, fittings, layout, and installation complexity. Here’s a quick guide to what influences the price:
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Size and layout: Smaller bathrooms with simple layouts cost less.
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Plumbing proximity: Closer to existing bathroom pipes = cheaper.
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Quality of fixtures: From close-coupled toilets to pedestal basins, your choices affect the total.
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Finishes: Modern, traditional, or luxurious styles can all vary in price.
Planning your en suite project
Good planning is key to a smooth build. Before you install anything, think about how your en suite will function in daily life. Ask yourself: Will it be used by one person or two? Do you want a shower, or just a toilet and basin? How much space can you spare in your bedroom? Once you’ve answered those questions, you can start creating a plan that balances practical use and style.
How much space do you need for a small ensuite?
You don’t need much! A compact en suite bathroom can fit comfortably in as little as 2.5 square metres. A small bathroom layout might include:
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A corner shower (or wall-hung shower enclosure)
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A close-coupled toilet
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A pedestal basin or wall-hung basin
With clever space-saving designs, you can make a smaller bathroom feel spacious and pleasant without compromising on function.
Typical layout ideas
1. The “corner” ensuite
Perfect for tighter spaces, a corner shower paired with a wall-hung basin and slimline toilet can tuck neatly into a small room.
2. The “linear” ensuite
A simple layout where the toilet, basin, and shower are arranged in a row along one wall – ideal for narrow spaces.
3. The “L-shaped” ensuite
Great for square or slightly irregular rooms. This layout adds depth and flow, creating a sense of harmony in your design.
Breaking down the costs
Let’s look at the complete cost breakdown for adding an en suite:
Element |
Typical Cost (UK) |
Notes |
---|---|---|
Basic suite (toilet, basin, shower) |
£600–£1,500 |
More for luxurious bathroom suites |
Plumbing & electrics |
£800–£2,000 |
Depends on proximity to existing bathrooms |
Tiling & flooring |
£400–£1,000 |
Higher-end textures and colours cost more |
Labour & fitting |
£1,000–£2,500 |
Includes installation and finishing |
Extras (accessories, lighting, ventilation) |
£200–£500 |
Adds comfort and style |
Total estimated cost: £3,000–£8,000 |
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Choosing the right bathroom suite
Your en suite bathroom suite will set the tone for your new space. There’s a wide range of suites available—from traditional to modern, compact to luxurious.
Modern suites
Think sleek finishes, minimal lines, and wall-hung fittings. A modern en suite creates a clean, contemporary look that makes even a smaller bathroom feel open.
Traditional suites
For period properties or those who love a timeless look, traditional bathroom suites with pedestal basins, chrome taps, and soft curves offer elegance and charm.
Compact suites
Perfect for smaller en-suites, these are designed to make every inch count—featuring wall-hung toilets and corner basins that maximise your space.
The role of Victorian Plumbing
Retailers like Victorian Plumbing offer an extensive range of bathroom suites to suit every style and budget. From modern en suite bathrooms to traditional designs, they make it easy to shop for high-quality fixtures that fit your space perfectly. You can explore:
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Compact en-suites for small bedrooms
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Contemporary suites for a luxurious feel
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Traditional bathroom suites with vintage features
How to make a small ensuite feel bigger
A small en suite doesn’t have to feel cramped. With the right design, you can create an illusion of space and depth. Try these tricks:
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Use light colours and reflective surfaces
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Opt for wall-hung basins and toilets to open up floor space
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Add vertical storage for towels and accessories
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Install good lighting for a pleasant, elegant glow
Even smaller bathrooms can feel luxurious when well-designed.
Plumbing considerations
Plumbing is often the most significant variable in your en suite price. If your new bathroom is near existing pipes, installation will be simpler and cheaper. If not, you may need to:
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Extend hot and cold water lines
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Add waste outlets for the toilet, basin, and shower
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Consider ventilation or extractor fans for airflow
Always use a professional plumber to ensure your suite is properly equipped and compliant.
Electrical work and lighting
Lighting makes a huge difference in a small bathroom. Soft, warm LED lighting can make your en suite feel cosy after a long day, while task lighting around the basin and mirror is ideal for daily use. You might also want to include:
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Underfloor heating for a luxury touch
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Heated towel rails
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Shaver sockets or charging points
Flooring and wall finishes
The wall and flooring choices you make will define the style and comfort of your en suite bathroom. Popular options include:
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Ceramic or porcelain tiles for durability
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Vinyl for a practical, low-cost finish
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Textured tiles or panelling for a bit of depth and elegance
Choose finishes that match the rest of your house for a seamless connection of style and function.
Space-saving furniture and storage
Good storage is essential in smaller en-suites. Look for wall-hung units, mirrored cabinets, and compact shelving that keep clutter off surfaces. Even adding a slim board or floating shelf can create the illusion of a larger room, giving you more breathing space while keeping everything tidy.
Choosing your shower
Showers come in many shapes and styles, from square enclosures to corner cubicles and walk-in options. If you’re short on space, a corner shower or sliding door model can help you achieve a more open feel. For a luxurious finish, consider:
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Frameless glass panels
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Rainfall shower heads
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Wall-mounted thermostatic taps
Picking the perfect basin
Your basin is more than a practical fixture—it’s a central feature of your en suite. Common options include:
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Pedestal basins for a traditional touch
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Wall-hung basins for modern minimalism
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Compact basins for tighter spaces
Pair your basin with matching taps and accessories to create a cohesive style.
Toilet choices for your ensuite
From close-coupled toilets to wall-hung toilets, your choice will affect both design and layout.
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Close-coupled toilets are easy to install and great for daily use.
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Wall-hung toilets save space and give a sleek, modern look.
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Compact toilets are perfect for smaller en-suites where every inch counts.
Ventilation and moisture control
Even the most luxurious en suite bathrooms need good ventilation. Without it, condensation can damage your wall surfaces and fixtures. Include:
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An extractor fan with a timer
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A small window, if possible
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Moisture-resistant paint and finishes
This ensures your bathroom remains fresh and pleasant long-term.
How long does it take to build an ensuite?
A typical en suite bathroom takes 2 to 3 weeks to complete, depending on size and complexity. Stages include:
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Design and planning
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Plumbing and electrical setup
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Tiling, flooring, and finishes
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Fitting the suit and accessories
It’s worth noting that Victorian Plumbing and similar suppliers can deliver your full suite quickly, so your project can stay on schedule.
How much value does an ensuite add?
Adding an en suite is a solid investment—it can increase your property value by up to 5%, especially when added to a master bedroom. Beyond financial gain, the convenience and comfort it brings make it a change you’ll appreciate every morning and at the end of long days.
Trends in en suite design
Current trends in en suite bathrooms include:
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Soft colour palettes and natural textures
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Sleek fittings with minimalist features
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Wall-hung suites for cleaner lines
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Compact, space-saving designs
These elements combine elegance and practicality, helping you create your ideal space.
Mistakes to avoid when adding an ensuite
Even a small bathroom project can go wrong without proper foresight. Avoid:
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Underestimating space requirements
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Poor ventilation
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Choosing oversized suites
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Ignoring water pressure or drainage
With good planning, you can easily navigate these challenges.
How to find your ideal ensuite suite
When you’re ready to shop, look for suites that are designed for smaller bathrooms or compact spaces. Victorian Plumbing has a range of en suite bathroom suites in every style, from modern minimalism to traditional charm. Each suite is carefully designed to create balance, harmony, and quality—so you can achieve a finished look that feels truly complete.
Final thoughts: Is an ensuite worth it?
Absolutely. Whether you’re upgrading your master bedroom or adding a small ensuite for guests, this practical, luxurious feature offers comfort, value, and a peaceful personal space. From Victorian Plumbing’s wide range of suites to clever space-saving designs, creating your dream en suite bathroom is easier than ever. So if you’re ready to add a touch of elegance and function to your home, it might be time to start planning your perfect en suite.
The Conversion Guy - A Professional Bathroom Fitter serving Derbyshire & Staffordshire
Are you ready to take the plunge and transform your bathroom into an oasis? Well, look no further! The Conversion Guy is committed to providing you with a bathroom renovation experience that is unparalleled.
With over 40 years of experience in bathroom remodelling, we are looking forward to helping you create the most amazing bathroom of your dreams! We love talking bathrooms, so be sure to get in touch today or book a free consultation and start your journey towards creating the perfect bathroom retreat!
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