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Building a MicroStudio with my spare room.... Maybe

electronictofu
electronictofu Member Posts: 20

Hi all,
I’ve got an empty bedroom that’s been sitting unused, and I’m planning to convert it into a private micro-studio by closing off the interior door and adding an exterior entrance. This room shares a wall with my existing bathroom, so I’m looking into adding a small shower, sink, and toilet along that shared wall.

I’ve handled plenty of DIY work over the years—everything from toilets and tile to drywall and flooring—so most of the construction is well within my skill set. That said, I’d love input on key considerations for a project like this, especially around plumbing layout and drainage, since that’s the only piece I haven’t tackled on this scale.

The good news: all the plumbing is already along the shared wall, and I’ll be doing the majority—if not all—of the work myself. Just looking for advice on potential challenges or things to plan for before I dive in.

Claucia

Comments

  • PC7060
    PC7060 Member Posts: 1,716

    check your local building authority website for reference material and mandatory inspections.

    What’s the purpose of a micro-studio? It may bring up additional requirements.

    HVACNUTClaucia
  • electronictofu
    electronictofu Member Posts: 20

    As a rental unit to a friend, family member or tenant, passive income, it's just wasted space as of now. Basically renting a room, but going a step further by making it a little studio that's more private for them and myself.

  • Intplm.
    Intplm. Member Posts: 2,706

    Have a set of plans drawn up. That's your best starting point. It's a straightforward guide to any renovation, regardless of its size. From your post, you might be able to follow the same, if not a slightly different, footprint.

  • Jamie Hall
    Jamie Hall Member Posts: 26,288

    Check your local zoning before going very far… may be restrictions on rental apartments and the like.

    Br. Jamie, osb
    Building superintendent/caretaker, 7200 sq. ft. historic house museum with dependencies in New England
  • hot_rod
    hot_rod Member Posts: 25,531

    I think mist cities refer you to them as ADUs

    Accessory Dwelling units. We are in the process of turning our shop into a unit for our retirement


    Our city welcomes them due to the housing shortage,

    To keep it legal maybe look into a building permit

    Bob "hot rod" Rohr
    trainer for Caleffi NA
    Living the hydronic dream
  • PC7060
    PC7060 Member Posts: 1,716