Tub -> Shower only in Studio
I own and live in a 400 sqft studio in a large co-op building in Brooklyn Heights. The one bathroom currently has a standard 60″x30″ tub installed. The tub and tile work are both on their last legs, so a renovation is looming in the near future. I am strongly considering replacing the tub with…
I own and live in a 400 sqft studio in a large co-op building in Brooklyn Heights. The one bathroom currently has a standard 60″x30″ tub installed. The tub and tile work are both on their last legs, so a renovation is looming in the near future. I am strongly considering replacing the tub with a proper stand-up shower. My partner and I both hate the look of the tub and the room that the walls of the tub eliminate from possible standing room. We have lived in the apartment for over four years and have never taken a bath. I’m not sure the stopper even works anymore. We plan on staying in the studio for at least a year after the renovations would be finished.
That said, I have a few questions which were not resolved in similar previous threads:
Given the fact that this is a smallish studio (small children not likely an issue), will not having a tub negatively impact resale value or turn away potential buyers in any meaningful amount?
People in previous threads have opined in passing that an apartment “must” have a tub (or a full bathroom?) according to some NYC DOB rule or regulation. Does such a regulation exist, what is the reference and does it apply to me?
Thanks!
In the midst of co-op renovations, I just found out my co-op does NOT allow the tub to rbe replaced by a shower. Having showered all my life in a decent sized shower, I am struggling to find a 60″ tub that has comfortable standing space- does anyone know of a tub (not custom) that is shower-like except for the high rim?
I am certain that a tub is not required by the DOB since I own buildings with apartments that have only a shower and they were filed and signed off by the DOB with just the shower.
From a practical point, since you will not realize much of a savings in space by eliminating the tub because you will still need almost the same size bathroom, what I would do in your situation, would be to remove the tub and install a 30″ x 60″ shower base, they are commonly available. This would give you a spacious shower to enjoy (also a great selling point) as well as allow for the conversion of the shower base into a tub is someone elects to do so at a later date.
Good luck,
Thanks for all of your opinions! Kinda confirms what I had hoped would be the consensus.
Does anyone know about the tub requirement mentioned in this older thread regarding DOB rules? It has me concerned.
http://bstoner.wpengine.com/forum/archives/2006/12/shower_versus_b.php#comments
Considering it’s a studio and it’s in NYC, I don’t think changing a tub to just a shower should really make a difference when you try and sell.
Like someone here said, if it’s a really nice spa-like shower or a really great renovation, that will be good enough to attract buyers if the bathroom is updated and nice.
I don’t think a tub is necessary for a studio at all. A gorgeous spa-like shower with fancy showerheads would do much better for resale in a small studio.
i renovated a 2-bedroom, 1.5 bathroom house 5 years ago with a shower only – we initially had the same concerns, but sold easily. i currently own a condo, the entire building has actually only showers and all units are sold. both places are in park slope.
I would say 90% of my clients replace their tubs with showers. I cannot even remember someone changing from a shower to a tub.
Jock deBoer, AIA
deBoer Architects
Only today I consulted with a friend regarding replacing my tub in the rental apartment with just a walk in shower. He said if that is only bathroom, I should install a tub – better for resale. Just my two cents!