Adding a master bathroom to your home can transform your living experience and dramatically increase your home’s value. One creative way to create space for a new bathroom is by utilizing an attic dormer. Dormers allow you to expand your home’s footprint by building out into the attic space. In this room of the day, we’ll explore how a new dormer was used to carve out an elegant master bath.
Overview of the Project
The homeowners had a cramped attic bathroom that was original to this 1920s colonial. The small space had minimal storage and an outdated layout. They wanted to gain a spa-like retreat without undergoing a major addition.
The solution was to build a new shed dormer off the back side of the house. This expanded the footprint of the second floor just enough to accommodate a sizable bathroom. The dormer shed blends nicely with the home’s traditional architecture.
Below we’ll dive into the details on how this dormer addition created an airy, inviting master bath. We’ll cover the layout, features, materials, and tips that made this bathroom transformation possible.
Layout of the New Master Bathroom
Thoughtful planning was key to making the most of the added dormer space. Here’s an overview of the new master bathroom layout:
- Double vanity along the back wall with windows above looking out the new dormer
- Large walk-in shower with glass doors and attractive tile work
- freestanding soaking tub situated by the windows to enjoy natural light
- Water closet tucked privately behind a pocket door
- Spacious walk-in closet accessible through the bathroom
This layout allows for practical functionality and an ambiance of luxury. The homeowners opted for separated spaces for the key bathroom elements rather than squeezing everything together. This makes the room feel open and organized.
Placing the tub by the windows and shower tucked around a corner also provides privacy. There’s a clear separation between wet and dry areas as well. The new dormer space allowed for this thoughtful configuration.
Standout Features That Make This Bathroom Special
Several special features help elevate this new master bath:
Double Vanity
Having two sinks allows two people to get ready at once in the mornings. The long vanity provides ample counter space and storage underneath. The white marble top and bronze faucets create an elegant hotel aesthetic.
Large Walk-in Shower
Spa-like showers are a popular feature in modern master bathrooms. This shower has an extra-large footprint with semi-frameless glass doors. The mosaic tile work on the walls and floor make this shower a focal point. Rainfall and standard showerheads provide a luxurious bathing experience.
Freestanding Tub
A free-standing tub serves as a serene retreat within the bathroom. Situated by the windows, the tub becomes a place to soak and unwind in natural light. Details like the sculptural bronze feet and bubble jet features enhance the appeal.
Walk-in Closet
Accessing the walk-in closet directly through the master bath is very convenient. It also allowed for borrowing space from the closet for a larger bathroom footprint. The spacious closet has custom built-ins for optimized organization.
Materials That Complement the Dormer Style
The materials for this new master bathroom suite needed to coordinate with the home’s existing architectural style. Here are some of the key materials used to create cohesion:
- Cedar shake siding on the exterior – This matches the traditional cedar shingles on the rest of the home.
- Double hung windows – Bronze-finished windows with divided panes emulate the look of the home’s original windows.
- Hardwood flooring – Wide-plank oak floors extend from the bedroom into the bath for continuity.
- Subway tile in the shower – Classic white 3×6” subway tiles complement the traditional style.
- Marble countertops – Crisp white marble adds timeless elegance.
- Bronze plumbing fixtures – Warm metal finishes tie into the home’s existing brass hardware.
Thoughtful material selection helps the new dormer addition feel original to the home. The master bath feels tailored to match the 1920s colonial style.
Tips for Gaining a Master Bathroom with a New Dormer
If you’re considering adding a dormer to create space for a bathroom, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider shed vs gable dormers – Shed dormers tend to be less expensive and blend with many home styles. Gable dormers make a bolder architectural statement.
- Pay attention to roof lines – Placement of the dormer should align logically with existing rooflines and gables.
- Account for plumbing lines – Make sure to locate waste lines when determining bathroom placement.
- Watch out for structural elements – Don’t interfere with key load-bearing walls or the integrity of the roof structure.
- Evaluate window placement – Think about views, privacy, and natural light when locating windows. Skylights are another option.
- Incorporate storage – Use every inch by including medicine cabinets, built-in shelving, and walk-in closets.
- Choose materials wisely – Select durable surfaces like stone, tile, and metal that will withstand humidity.
With thoughtful planning and execution, a new dormer can unlock the potential for a master bathroom oasis. Take advantage of the additional space to gain the luxurious bathroom you’ve been dreaming of.
How Dormer Additions Expand a Home’s Footprint
Dormers provide a smart way to literally expand your living space. By building out into the attic area, dormers increase the interior square footage of a home without increasing its footprint. Here’s a closer look at how dormers can effectively enlarge your second floor:
What Exactly is a Dormer?
A dormer is essentially a windowed structure that projects vertically out of a sloping roof. The dormer encloses usable space, often for a room, stairway, or closet. There are several common dormer styles:
- Shed dormers have a single, slanted roofline. These are simple and economical.
- Gabled dormers have a peaked roofline and triangular end walls. They make a bolder architectural statement.
- Eyelid dormers have a curved roofline almost like an awning. These create a more modern aesthetic.
- Wall dormers are essentially extra gable ends added onto the existing roof.
The right dormer style depends on the home’s architecture, budget, and needs. A structural engineer can help design the optimal shape and placement.
How Dormers Increase Footprint
By their very nature, dormers increase a home’s footprint by building out into unused attic space. The protruding dormer structure expands living area footprint without the major intervention of a home addition.
On the second floor, a dormer can allow for larger rooms, new rooms, and extra hall space. Bathrooms and staircases are commonly situated in dormers.
On the floor below, dormers often accommodate elements like foyers, entryways, and expanded living spaces. Vaulting ceilings below dormers creates a light, airy feel.
Properly designed, dormers increase usable square footage while preserving the home’s original exterior dimensions. The expanded footprint is only perceptible from the inside.
Maximizing Space in Dormer Additions
When planning a dormer, it’s important to make the most of every inch:
- Consider layout – Place fixtures, doors and hallways thoughtfully to optimize flow and functionality.
- Provide adequate headroom – Minimum ceiling height is around 7 feet. Shed dormers limit height more than gable.
- Include storage – Incorporate closet space, built-ins, cabinetry and shelving wherever possible.
- Accommodate structural elements – Account for joists, rafters and load-bearing walls in the spacing.
- Watch sight lines – Angle walls and position windows to create a spacious feel.
- Allow natural light – Use windows, skylights or glass doors to get light into inner areas.
With smart planning, even modestly sized dormers can add substantial usable living space to a home. The expanded footprint transforms how the interior space functions.
Dormer Additions vs Major Home Additions
So how does adding space via a dormer compare to a major home addition? Here are some key differences:
- Budget – Dormers are generally less expensive, with costs as low as $10,000. An addition can start around $50,000.
- Construction – Dormers involve less structural change and construction upheaval. Additions are major projects.
- Timeframe – A dormer may be completed in weeks. Additions often take months.
- Exterior change – Dormers essentially work within the existing exterior footprint. Additions expand the overall footprint.
- Interior impact – Dormers typically modify upper floors. Additions can rework the entire floorplan.
For moderate expanded space needs, a dormer is usually the most efficient, cost-effective approach. It expands usable space without dramatic home surgery and expense.
How to Gain a Master Suite with a Dormer Addition
Does your home lack a dedicated master suite? A dormer addition can often provide the extra space needed to create a private master retreat. Here are some tips for gaining a spacious master suite with a dormer:
Choose the Right Dormer Location
The optimal location will depend on your home’s layout. Typical options include:
- Off the back of the house for privacy
- Above an existing one-story portion or porch
- Off an existing gable end for symmetry
Consider how the dormer can best expand and improve existing rooms on the second floor. Easy access from the main bedroom is key.
For resale value, street-facing dormers are generally less preferable than private backyard dormers.
Design the Interior Layout
A dormer for a master suite will typically contain:
- Private bathroom
- Walk-in closet
- Sitting area or office nook
Make sure to allow space for door access, comfortable furniture arrangement and circulation. Include amenities like double vanities, soaker tubs and large showers.
Borrow space from adjacent areas like hallways or extra bedrooms to maximize the new dormer footprint.
Complement the Exterior Architecture
Choose a dormer style and exterior finishes that blend with your home’s existing look. For traditional homes, shed dormers often work well. Use matching architectural details like:
- Window style and trim molding
- Roofing shingles and slope
- Siding materials and corner boards
- Paint colors
This helps the new dormer seem original rather than tacked on.
Incorporate Natural Lighting
Abundant natural light will make the master suite feel open and airy. Strategies include:
- Generous window placement
- Skylights or sun tunnels
- Vaulting ceilings below the dormer
- Borrowed light from adjoining rooms
Proper lighting transforms what could feel like a cramped attic space into a relaxing oasis.
Add Special Touches
Details like these help create a luxurious master suite retreat:
- Tray or coffered ceiling with accent lighting
- Ceiling fans for improved air circulation
- Soundproofing elements like insulation and acoustic caulking
- Radiant floor heating for winter comfort
- French doors to access a rooftop balcony
The right touches can make a compact dormer master feel spacious, elegant and welcoming.
With careful planning and design, a modest dormer addition can gain you the private master suite you’ve been dreaming of. The extra footage transforms unused attic space into a personal sanctuary.
Important Considerations When Planning a Dormer Addition
Dormers can deliver expanded living space, but they require careful planning and design. Here are some key considerations as you explore adding a dormer to your home:
Structural Factors
Since dormers involve altering the roof structure, structural engineering is a must. Key factors include:
- Rafters – Size and spacing to properly support the dormer walls and roof
- Joists – Adequate size joists spanned properly under the new space
- Load path – Dormer weight transferred safely to the foundation
- Collar ties & rafter ties – Bracing added to reinforce the roof structure
- Wall framing – Strength to handle the roof load transmitted above
An engineer will specify structural modifications needed to build a sound, safe dormer addition.
Roof Design
The dormer must integrate properly with the surrounding roof. Watch for:
- Drainage – The roof needs adequate slope and flashing to shed water.
- Shingles – Match existing shingles or re-roof entire structure.
- Eaves & rakes – Dormer overhangs should align with overall rooflines.
- Valleys & ridges – Transition dormer into adjacent roof valleys and ridges.
Poor roofing can lead to leaks, rot and structural issues down the road.
Placement & Orientation
Carefully consider where the dormer is situated on the home. Optimize for:
- Views – Enhance sightlines and let in ample natural light.
- Privacy – Minimize views into the dormer from neighboring properties.
- Access – Situate dormer conveniently near existing bedrooms and hallways.
- Balance – Dormer placement should enhance, not detract from, façade symmetry.
Test different dormer sizes and locations to find the ideal layout.
Zoning Regulations
Most areas have zoning rules that dictate allowable dormer size. Check guidelines like:
- Maximum height & projection – Limits prevent gigantic dormers.
- Setback minimums – Distance from property lines, streets and neighbors.
- Maximum lot coverage – Total footprint area including dormers.
Getting zoning approval helps avoid issues like sun shading or looming over the neighbors.
By properly accounting for structural, roofing, orientation and zoning factors, your dormer addition can improve your living space without causing headaches down the road.
Common Challenges with Dormer Additions
Dormer additions can certainly deliver expanded living space, but they also come with unique construction challenges. Being aware of potential issues upfront helps avoid pitfalls in your project.
Limited Interior Space
Dormers contain confined, irregularly-shaped interior space. Areas where walls meet angled ceilings have limited utility. This makes furniture arrangement and occupant movement tricky.
Careful spatial planning is required to make the most of every inch inside a dormer. Architectural creativity comes in handy.
Structural Modifications
Since dormers alter roof loads, structural reinforcement is usually needed. This may involve:
- Sistering or replacing short rafters
- Beefing up ceiling joists with sister joists or new laminated beams
- Installing collar ties, rafter ties and joist hangers
- Adding supplemental posts or steel beams
Structural work can drive up construction timelines and cost.
Roof Transition Areas
Properly integrating the new dormer roof with the existing roof takes finesse. Trouble spots include:
- Valley and ridge joints
- Eave overhang transitions
- Flashing details at intersections
- Shingling sloped surfaces
Leaks easily result if water flows and drainage are not handled right.
Limited Window Options
The angled walls and low headroom of dormers limit window possibilities. Some constraints include:
- Smaller maximum window sizes
- Fewer configuration options like picture windows
- Lower visible glass area due to wall angles
- Lack of space for interior trim
Main level windows usually allow more unobstructed light.
Tricky HVAC Integration
Running ductwork, pipes and vents into dormers involves challenges like:
- Accommodating tight spaces in joists and rafters
- Avoiding excess turns that hinder airflow
- Maintaining adequate slope on horizontal duct runs
- Providing returns or adding supplemental units
Poor HVAC integration leads to hot, stuffy, uncomfortable dormer spaces.
By understanding inherent dormer challenges upfront, you can plan and budget appropriately. A skilled architect and contractor are key to executing a successful dormer project.
Best Practices for Designing Master Bathrooms
If you’re utilizing a dormer to add a new master bathroom, smart design is key to making the space both beautiful and highly functional. Keep these master bathroom design tips in mind:
Optimize the Layout
Master bathrooms work best with compartmentalized spaces for key functions. Typical zones include:
- Vanity area – Double vanities allow partners to prep simultaneously.
- Toilet area – Enclose for privacy, soundproofing and odor control.
- Tub area – Situate for relaxation, views and natural light.
- Shower area – Separate from other wet zones to contain splashing.
- Linen area – Built-in or free-standing storage for towels.
- Walk-in closet – Direct access from bathroom improves convenience.
Thoughtful arrangement enhances privacy and makes the flow more logical.
Select Durable, Easy-care Finishes
The high-moisture environment demands resilient finishes:
- Tile or stone floors – Hard surfaces resist water and are easily cleaned. Include radiant heating.
- Tile surrounds in wet areas – Use waterproof backer board and anti-fracture membranes.
- Quartz or solid surface countertops – Non-porous and handles humidity well. Undermount sinks provide sleek look.
- Metal fixtures – Brass, chrome and nickel finishes hold up and provide shine.
- Painted walls – Use mold-resistant semi-gloss paint for washability.
- Waterproof lighting – Damp-rated fixtures prevent short circuiting.
Quality materials withstand wear and tear while looking beautiful.
