Attic ensuite bathroom renovation in Sydney by Passion Built
- February 23, 2023
- Bathrooms

Can't recommend this bathroom renovation company in Sydney highly enough. Streamlined process from beginning to end and on schedule to the day. Great customer service and workmanship all round. Absolutely love my new renovated bathroom, it's fabulous.
attic bathroom renovation in Newtown, Sydney
Passion Built is a bathroom renovation company in Sydney that can build a new bathroom in an attic. Our company can renovate a bathroom in a houses, apartments, townhouse, granny flat or commercial site. For this home in Newtown, Sydney, the scope of work that our renovation contractors had to complete was demolishing and building a brand new bathroom in an attic.
As you can see in the photos, one of the best interior design features of this bathroom was the use of tiling on the wall to create a herringbone feature wall in the walk in shower. This choice was made instead of standard large format 600×600 tiles and it creates instant visual impact as soon as you open the door.
The challenges renovating in an attic
Newtown has quite a few terrace homes which means they have three or even four levels in a very narrow block of land. This home had an attic which was converted into a living space consisting of a bedroom with ensuite. The owners wanted to renovate the ensuite bathroom in the attic to make more space and have a modern feel.
What work did we complete for this bathroom renovation?
- Demolition of the old bathroom
- Preparation of the walls and flooring before completing the waterproofing
- Adjusting the plumbing to suit the new layout
- Wall sheeting, tiling & fixture installation
- Painting and light installation
- Glass shower screen installation
- Vanity sink, toilet and shower head installation
Sometimes people renovate their bathroom simply to give it a modern design & a fresh look. As we mentioned, the owner of this home wanted to renovate their ensuite bathroom that was in the attic. The majority of bathroom renovations that we complete in Sydney are done for either ground floor or the 1st floor of a home.
Although for a lot of homes in Newtown there is a third or even fourth level in some terrace building structures where the attic is used either as a bedroom or in this case a bathroom. They had already chosen all their hardware items which included products from Caroma’s range. Building a bathroom in an attic can make sense in certain situations, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind with a few different factors to consider:
Structural considerations: When you add a bathroom to an attic space you have to ensure the flooring can support the additional weight of the waterproofing, tiling, vanity, bath etc. Most attics will have plaster sheeting but may need to be reinforced to support the additional weight especially if you are going to add a bath tub which means an engineer might be required to certify the new flooring needed.
Plumbing considerations: If it isn’t already in place, plumbing will need to be installed and connected to the existing pipes in the house. Adequate drainage and ventilation are also too other important for the bathroom’s functionality and safety. Most attic spaces will not have existing windows so these may need to be built into the roof structure or a new skylight added while the plumbing may need to be run to the highest of the house either internally or externally.
Safety & council regulation considerations: Installing a bathroom in an attic requires following safety regulations and building codes to ensure that the space is safe and also legal for use. Some councils in Sydney have certain restrictions for how these types of roof spaces can be used & there are also a number of legal requirements as well that relate to ventilation, lighting, and electrical wiring.
Value considerations: Adding a bathroom in the attic can add value to a home, but this depends on the quality of the installation, the demand for additional bathrooms for this type of house layout in Sydney and the overall condition of the house.
Once consideration is given to the complexity of building a bathroom in an attic it therefore becomes even more critical to choose an experienced bathroom renovation contractor in Sydney that knows how to manage all of these aspects. If any of the work is not completed correctly there is a substantial risk of water leaking through the roof into the rooms below or even structural issues as the ceiling tries to cope with the additional weight added to the very top of the structure.
Designing a bathroom in an attic in Sydney
If you are thinking about renovating your attic bathroom in Sydney, one of the clever decisions you can make is to ensure your bathroom renovation company has experience with designing new layouts. You can start with a piece of paper and some dimensions, then we can use our bathroom design software to create a 2D site plan which can be converted into a 3D virtual model. We can place doors, windows, vanity, shower, toilet or bath into a room to see how it will all fit. It means you can visualise different layouts or even bathroom styles before committing to renovating.
- This process is particularly crucial in very small bathrooms like the one for this attic, where the arrangement of fixtures and fittings can significantly impact usability. An experienced bathroom renovator in Sydney will consider ergonomics and flow, ensuring that the layout promotes ease of movement and access. This expertise can prevent common pitfalls such as cramped conditions or placing items in the room that might look ‘pretty’ but not be very usable day to day.
- Another critical aspect is the adherence to building codes and regulations. Bathrooms must comply with various standards concerning plumbing, electrical work, ventilation, and safety. Our renovations team is well-versed with these regulations and can ensure that the renovation meets all legal requirements.
It means you can elevate a bathroom from a mere functional space to a sanctuary of relaxation and comfort. We can help you integrate unique design elements and personalise the space according to your preferences while blending style with practicality.
For this ensuite the owner wanted to move the toilet into the opposite corner of the room, so we had to adjust the sewer plumbing and extend the water supply lines. To save space in such a small room they chose to have an in wall toilet cistern from Caroma installed. With complete access to the timber framing of the room we can recess the cistern very easily so that the only thing exposed are the buttons and the toilet bowl. It makes the room feel less cluttered so it is an ideal product choice for a bathroom in an attic.
Choosing an in wall toilet cistern design for your renovation has many advantages over traditional toilets with visible cisterns that include;
Space-saving: In-wall toilet cisterns are installed inside the wall, which frees up floor space and makes the bathroom look more spacious and streamlined. This is particularly useful in smaller bathrooms or when you want to create a minimalist design.
Aesthetically pleasing: In-wall toilet cisterns offer a sleek, modern, and minimalist appearance. They can make the bathroom look more elegant and sophisticated, and they also provide more design options for your bathroom.
Easy to clean: Since the cistern is hidden in the wall, there are fewer nooks and crannies for dirt and dust to collect, making it easier to keep the toilet clean.
Better flushing performance: In-wall toilet cisterns generally provide a better flushing performance than traditional toilets. This is because the cistern can hold more water and the flush mechanism is typically more powerful, resulting in a more efficient and effective flush.
Improved hygiene: In-wall toilet cisterns eliminate the need for a visible cistern, which can be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. This makes them a more hygienic option, especially in public or shared bathrooms.
How can you plan for a bathroom renovation in an attic?
- Evaluate Space: First step is to measure the existing spaces to determine if it can accommodate the different elements you are considering renovating or changing. You might discover that a wall needs to be changed or a layout altered to fit a new vanity or to add a shower or bath.
- Budgeting: Establish a budget that covers all aspects of the renovation, including materials, labour, fixtures, and any unforeseen expenses. Some people will say they don’t know how much a bathroom renovation costs for example, but there is plenty of information available online to give you an idea, most bathrooms will cost at least $20,000 for a complete renovation. Get more information here.
- Design and Layout: You can choose to work with an interior designer or architect to create a layout that optimises the available space, ensuring adequate room for movement and accessibility. They will typically create detailed floor plans and 3D renderings to make decision making easier.
- Local Building Codes: Research and understand local building regulations and codes that pertain to bathroom renovations. Ensure your plans comply with these requirements as each Council has different requirements. Most of the time internal renovations don’t need approvals.
- Obtain Permits: Apply for the necessary permits from local authorities before commencing work if they are required which could be the case if the property is part of a strata block of townhouses.
- Clear Out Space: A bathroom renovator like Passion Built can help you demolish the existing toilet to get ready to build the new bathroom.
- Plumbing: New plumbing lines might be needed to accommodate the new shower, vanity, and toilet. This may involve significant changes, including installing new pipes, drains, and venting systems depending on the house and existing layout.
- Electrical: Update electrical wiring to ensure it can handle new lighting, exhaust fans, and outlets, following safety codes and standards as required. Different room types or locations will need different elements which will be included in the interior design plan.
- Floor Reinforcement: If necessary, reinforce the flooring to support the weight of the new fixtures, especially if a bathtub is also going to be installed in the room.
- Wall and floor construction: Construct or modify walls to create the desired layout that include moisture-resistant drywall in areas that will be exposed to water and of course waterproofing.
- Tiling, painting & fixture fitting: Once the room is prepared and ready to be used for renovation the work begins once the waterproofing has been completed to start doing the tiling, fitting fixtures, lighting, and then painting.
Would you like a free in home assessment and written quotation?
Dylan from Passion Built will be happy to answer any questions you might have & also inspect the space you’d like to renovate to then provide a written, fixed price, quotation.

Attic bathroom renovation ideas
Ceiling skylights
Normally an attic won’t have any windows and therefore won’t have any natural light. While it is possible to install LED lighting to give the room the necessary brightness and warmth, nothing beats natural light. So the other option when renovating is to install a skylight in the ceiling. This can let light in all day long and depending on the model you choose it might even be able to open, have a privacy shade or even be ventilated.
Shallow vanity sink
Most people will choose a sink for their vanity that is quite deep, although when you think about it, why do you need a deep sink? By choosing to install a shallow sink in your bathroom you can save space under the countertop for extra storage while retaining the ability to catch water. This is a great idea for small ensuites getting built in an attic in particular.
Vanity mirror with storage and lighting
For ensuite bathrooms it can be hard to find enough space to store all of your medicine, hair care products and other toiletries. Instead of choosing a simple mirror to hang on the wall, getting a vanity mirror with storage can help solve that problem. It also creates easy eye-level access to everything you need.
Some units can also have strip lighting installed to then cleverly light up the room without having lots of downlights in the roof.
Textured tiling
Most people choose smooth tiles for their walls or floors, but you can use textured tiles even as feature highlights that can give a room some impact and make it feel luxurious. For this bathroom renovation they opted for a herringbone style feature wall which complimented the large format floor tiling. It gives the mainly white bathroom a touch of character.
Free site inspection, consultation & quote
It’s really easy to find out the cost to renovate. We offer an obligation free site inspection, consultation & written price quote so that you can work out all the costs before you commit to renovating.
Bathroom renovation examples
If you would like to see more bathroom renovation examples, below are some more of the builds we have completed in Sydney. You can look through lots of photos and our design idea explanations to get inspiration for your bathroom. As you will see, each design is very different, proof that our renovation company can renovate any style or type of bathroom in Newtown, Sydney that you can dream of.
We are a bathroom renovator in Sydney that can custom design a bathroom in any size or shape, demolish your old rooms, then build a completely new one.

Apartment bathroom renovation to replace a bath with shower
A beautiful bathroom renovation in an apartment in Coogee, Sydney where we removed the old bath and replaced it with a walk in shower and Terrazzo-look tiles

Townhouse renovation in Padstow
A complete renovation on a townhouse in Padstow including the bathroom, kitchen and living areas

Making a bathroom larger & adding a toilet in Sydney
The owner of this home in Kogarah Bay wanted a bigger bathroom & to add a toilet. Our renovation included removing a wall and using the linen cupboard space, see how we did it
Get a new bathroom designed in Newtown, Sydney
Designing a bathroom has never been easier with inspiration available from photos, interior design websites or videos. You can have a new custom designed and built bathroom for your house or apartment in Newtown, Sydney using inspiration from magazines, Pinterest or your interior designer.
New bathroom designs
Building a new bathroom or renovating an old one in Newtown, Sydney can definitely add value to your home, as long as the renovations are done properly and with the right materials. When considering a bathroom renovation, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary elements to make the space functional, including a shower, toilet, vanity and bathtub.
- A shower is a must-have for most people, as it provides a convenient and efficient way to get clean. Make sure to choose a shower that is large enough for two people and has enough headroom, if needed.
- Toilets are also important (no kidding right) and you should consider a model that is efficient, easy to clean and has a low profile to make the most of the space if there isn’t much room. Sometimes a concealed cistern system is a wise choice.
- Vanity units are essential for storing bathroom essentials and can be used to add extra counter space, too. Choose a vanity that matches the style of the bathroom and has enough storage space.
- Bathtubs can also add value to your home, especially if you have a larger family or enjoy relaxing in a warm bath. While they can take up a lot of space they are especially suited if the home needs to be used by a family with small children or it is placed in an ensuite to the main bedroom.
Choose your own materials
When renovating your bathroom, it is important to choose high-quality materials that are durable and attractive. This includes tiles, taps, shower heads and other fixtures. We always recommend a fresh coat of paint to give the space a new look and feel. Additionally, consider incorporating energy-efficient and eco-friendly features into your bathroom renovation, such as low-flow toilets, shower heads and taps which can help reduce water and energy usage. These features not only help the environment, but can also lower your monthly bills.
Fixed price quotations
Regarding cost, bathroom renovations can range from a few thousand dollars for a basic renovation to tens of thousands for a complete overhaul. It is important to have a budget in mind and stick to it, so you don’t overspend. Renovating a bathroom in Newtown, Sydney to include a shower, toilet, vanity and bathtub can add value to your home, as long as the renovations are done properly and with the right materials.
Adding a bathroom with a combined laundry to a home in Newtown, Sydney can potentially add value to your home. However, the actual value added will depend on various factors such as the quality of the construction, the market demand in your area, and the overall appeal and functionality of the addition. Here are some considerations:
- Increased Functionality: Adding a bathroom and a combined laundry to a garage can enhance the functionality of your home. This addition provides convenience and versatility, especially if there are no existing bathrooms or laundry facilities in the garage or nearby. It can be particularly attractive to potential buyers or renters who prioritise having these amenities readily available.
- Additional Living Space: Converting a garage into a usable space with a bathroom and laundry can effectively increase the liveable square footage of your home. This can be advantageous when it comes to property valuation and appeal. However, it’s important to note that converting a garage may impact the availability of covered parking, which could be a factor for some buyers.
- Market Demand: The demand for properties with additional bathrooms and laundry facilities can vary depending on the specific market conditions in your area. Research the local real estate market and consult with real estate professionals to understand the preferences and expectations of potential buyers or renters. Consider whether the addition aligns with the needs and desires of the target market.
- Quality and Design: The quality of the construction, finishes, and overall design of the added bathroom and laundry will significantly impact its value. Ensure that the space is well-designed, functional, and visually appealing. Using high-quality materials and fixtures will also contribute to the perceived value of the addition.
- Cost vs. Value: Consider the cost of the addition relative to the potential increase in property value. Evaluate whether the expenses involved in construction, permits, and any necessary modifications are justified by the potential return on investment. It’s advisable to get estimates from reputable contractors and compare them with the estimated increase in home value to make an informed decision.
Remember that adding value to a home is not solely dependent on a single renovation project. It’s essential to consider the overall condition of the property, its location, and other factors that influence market value. Conduct thorough research, consult with professionals, and weigh the costs and potential benefits to make an informed decision about renovating your bathroom in Newtown, Sydney.
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Craftsmanship
We are known for our exceptional craftsmanship in creating modern, stylish, and trend-setting bathrooms. With an extensive background in bathroom construction, Passion Built specialises in catering to the unique preferences and needs of each client, ensuring the delivery of bespoke bathroom solutions for homes and units alike.
A spectrum of styles
Our expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of bathroom styles, allowing us to adeptly handle projects of any scale and complexity. Whether you envision a compact, efficient space or a luxurious, expansive bathroom, our team is equipped to bring your vision to life using a variety of high-quality materials. We take pride in our flexibility and creativity, ensuring that each project reflects the individuality and lifestyle of our clients.
Modern features
One of the hallmarks of Passion Built is our proficiency in incorporating modern features into our designs. This includes the construction of elegant walk-in showers and the installation of sophisticated free-standing baths, among other contemporary elements. These features not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom but also contribute to its functionality and comfort.

Design & construction
Understanding that a bathroom renovation is not just about aesthetics, we offer comprehensive services that encompass design, structural alterations, and full-scale construction. Our team works closely with you from the initial design phase, helping to conceptualise a layout that maximises space and efficiency. We are skilled in modifying floor plans, relocating walls, and even combining rooms to create a more spacious and inviting bathroom environment.
High standards
The demolition and construction phases are handled with the utmost professionalism and attention to detail. Our commitment to quality ensures that every aspect of the renovation, from the foundational work to the finishing touches, is executed to the highest standards. We coordinate all aspects of the project, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for our clients.
Exceeding expectations
At Passion Built, we recognise that a bathroom is more than just a functional space; it is a personal retreat that should reflect your style and enhance your daily routine. Our dedication to excellence, coupled with our experience and versatility, makes us the ideal choice for transforming your bathroom into a space that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
Let us help you create a bathroom that is not just built, but passionately built to perfection.
