jacy wrote:

have a 975 SF raised ranch with one bath. Previous owners studded out
a 6x5 area in basement, directly below main level bath. I would like
to finish this area for a second 1.5 bath, however it would be
atrociously tight as-is. Have a quote from a plumber to core basement
floor and rough in plumbing for shower drain, toilet and sink.
Understandably, he wants to enlarge the area, which doesn't entail too
much demo as it's only finished on the exterior, which is exposed to
the open floor plan finished basement.

Where we're of a different opinion is which way to go. As you look at
the layout, I don't want to go to the left, as that's a nice little
workout area that really can't be made any smaller. Can't go to the
right without going a LOT to the right because there's a window almost
immediately beyond that right wall, so we'd have to go a good 4-1/2 to
5 feet or more to incorporate that entire window and that'd take too
much away from the main room, and make the bathroom larger than it
effectively needs to be.

I'd prefer bumping out the door wall, as it's really dead floor space
right now -- an 11' wide walkthrough area that could easily give up a
few feet. What do you think?

Part of the issue is the plumber doesn't speak English too well, I'm
heard of hearing and rely a lot on lip reading; a situation ripe for
miscommunication. (Yes, he's licensed, comes well recommended and I've
seen his work.) He's a great plumber but perhaps not so much a
designer. I have a very reliable and skilled handyman to help with the
finish work, but again, design skills...?

The layout below is a very rough prelim sketch done by me. It'll be
tight no matter how you slice it -- there's no getting around that,
but it is what it is: a small bath in a small house -- no shame in
that.

I'm a single mom of three teenagers and proud owner of a very limited
budget. We're desperate for a second bath of any size, and just trying
to make the most of what we have to work with. Any recommendations
much appreciated!

Thanks,
~Jacy

http://picasaweb.google.com/jmeander...51922438373986

You don't have to align to that window unless it is a required egress
window for occupied space. It is entirely possible to build a wall in
the middle of the window, and this is frequently done in commercial
buildings. It may not be the most aesthetic way to go, but you can
certainly dress it with drapes or whatnot, as you'd typically do in a
bathroom anyway, and it let's you align the space to the most
appropriate size and layout.