What Bathroom Suite Spacing Do I Need?
Quick Answer
Minimum 700mm clear space in front of WC and beside bath
Based on: BS 6465 and Building Regulations practical guidance for domestic bathrooms
Minimum Clear Spaces
- In front of WC: 700mm (600mm absolute minimum)
- Either side of WC: 200mm to wall or furniture
- In front of basin: 700mm standing space
- Beside bath (access side): 700mm
- Shower enclosure entry: 700mm clear
- Door swing: Must not hit any sanitaryware
Standard Sanitaryware Dimensions
- Standard bath: 1700mm × 700mm
- Small bath: 1500mm × 700mm
- Shower tray (square): 800×800mm or 900×900mm
- WC (close-coupled): 680mm × 370mm (floor space)
- Pedestal basin: 550mm × 450mm
- Wall-hung basin: 450–600mm × 350–450mm
Comfortable vs Minimum Spacing
The minimums above work in tight spaces, but for comfort:
- In front of WC: 800–900mm is much more comfortable
- Between fixtures: 150–200mm gap between items
- Bath access: 900mm+ allows easier cleaning and drying
Accessibility Considerations
For wheelchair-accessible bathrooms (Part M of Building Regulations), minimum clear space is 1100mm in front of the WC with 450mm to one side for transfer. A level-access shower with 1500mm turning circle is recommended.
Last updated: April 2026