How to improve ensuite and laundry configuration?

[veruska]

 

Hi, I just moved in my new townhouse, which has a laundry with toilet downstairs and big bathroom upstairs, which has 2 doors, one being my own ensuite sliding door. 

my problem is that when someone goes to the toilet at night I can hear everything and it disturbs my sleep and also the light shines through the door. 

What is more cost effective and problem solving in your opinion between the two:

1) close completely the ensuite door making it part of the wall or whatever suggestion you might have please 🙏 or 

2) replace the laundry tub downstairs with one of those shower cabins ready to install and then move the washing machine closer to the door. ( sorry the plan shows originally there was a shower there but there is a toilet, a laundry tub and washing machine and dryer and a window. )

I have attached the house plan to show what I mean, sorry if this is confusing! The plan shows 

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @veruska. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about improving an ensuite.

It sounds like you’re dealing with a frustrating situation, but let’s look at the root issues. I’m not entirely sure how your second option—adding a shower cabin and moving the washing machine—would address the noise or light disturbance in the ensuite. Unless it's them using the shower that is disturbing you, could you clarify how you envision this improving the situation?

For your first option, completely removing the ensuite access could have significant implications for the value of your home, as ensuites are highly sought after in most properties. It’s worth carefully considering whether this is the best course of action before proceeding.

To address the noise and light disturbances more directly, you might consider implementing a few practical solutions. For instance, in some households, it’s common practice not to flush the toilet at night for minor uses, especially when noise might disturb others. You could also install motion-activated nightlights in the ensuite. These provide just enough light for the user to see without needing to turn on the main light, reducing the chances of waking you. With showering, perhaps other users can alter their routine so they shower in the morning rather than late at night.

Additionally, you might consider replacing the sliding door with a solid core standard door. These would be much better at blocking light and noises.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[veruska]

Thank you so much Mitchell! 🙏very useful tips here. 

to replace the sliding door with a proper door, what would be the cost / work involved? 

and yes  I was thinking if having a shower downstairs would be good as the noise also wakes me up, the shower taps are on the other side of my bedroom wall so I can hear the noise through the pipes in the wall, it’s very noisy. So basically everyone else would have to shower downstairs but I do understand it would come at a high cost most likely. However it would add value to the property. 

thanks again 

[EricL]

Hello @veruska 

Depending on the door size you will be choosing, you'll be looking at the 112 x 18mm Flat Loose Primed FJ Pine Stop Door Jamb Set and a Hume Doors & Timber 820 x 2040 x 35mm Internal Door Primed MDF Flush H1. These are the general parts that usually come with a door set. But please keep in mind that the wall might need to be modified as well. 

My best advice for is to ask a builder to give you a detailed quote on what needs to be done in regards to replacing the door.  

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[veruska]

Thanks