The real project story
The downstairs WC needed to hide the things a real family actually uses—cleaning products, mops and pet supplies—without making an already compact room feel darker or smaller.
The plan combines a back-to-wall toilet and concealed cistern with a floor-to-ceiling corner cupboard, panelling and a built-in finish. The awkward part is making the storage feel deliberate while preserving the window light.
This project is still live. Costs, final dimensions, mistakes and the reveal will be added once the build is complete and the receipts have been checked.
How the build moved
- 01
Plan the services and access
Set the non-negotiable toilet position, cistern access and the usable storage zone before framing.
- 02
Build the support structure
Create plumb, square framing for the concealed services and the full-height cupboard.
- 03
Form the built-in surfaces
Board and prepare the walls, access areas and cupboard opening for a continuous finish.
- 04
Finish and document
Add panelling, decoration, doors and hardware, then reconcile the final costs and lessons.
What went into it
Published figures are kept honest. Where receipts or exact quantities are still being reconciled, we say so instead of guessing.
| Material | Quantity | Recorded cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Framing timber | To be verified | To be verified | Final quantity being recorded during the live build. |
| Plasterboard and finishing materials | To be verified | To be verified | — |
| Back-to-wall toilet and concealed cistern | 1 | To be verified | — |
| Cupboard panels, door and hinges | To be verified | To be verified | — |
| Panelling and decorating materials | To be verified | To be verified | — |
Tools used
- Tape measure
- Long spirit level
- Mitre saw
- Drill/driver
- Board cutting tools
- Suitable PPE
The useful bit: what went wrong
This section will be completed honestly when the project is finished.
What we would carry into the next build
- Design maintenance access before hiding any service or fitting.