Combined bathrooms are a common solution in Georgian apartments, especially in older buildings in Tbilisi and compact apartments in Batumi. Competent renovation allows you to gain space, simplify communications, and reduce costs. This article provides practical advice, prices, and real‐life examples.
Why a combined bathroom is a good solution
Combining the bathroom and toilet not only provides more space, but also simplifies renovation.
Advantages:
- fewer partitions and finishing works,
- simpler pipe and sewerage layout,
- more layout and design options,
- savings of up to 15—25 % of the budget compared to separate renovations.
Combined bathroom layout
What is important to consider at the outset
Before starting repairs, you need to assess:
- load‐bearing walls (especially in Soviet‐built houses),
- the condition of the risers,
- the possibility of relocating plumbing fixtures.
Popular solutions
- Shower instead of a bathtub — savings of up to 1 m².
- Wall‐mounted toilet — visually more space.
- Washing machine under the sink.
- Niches and built‐in wardrobes.
Combined bathroom design: practical ideas
Colors and materials
- Light‐colored tiles (white, beige, gray).
- Large‐format tiles — fewer joints.
- Matte surfaces (fewer water marks).
Lighting
- Main light + mirror lighting.
- Warm neutral light (4000K).
Average cost of renovating a combined bathroom in Tbilisi and Batumi
- Cosmetic renovation: $150—220/m².
- Major renovation: $250—400/m².
- Turnkey renovation: $400—600/m².
The price usually includes: demolition, tiles, plumbing, electrical work, and waterproofing.
Work completion times
- Cosmetic renovation: 7—10 days.
- Major renovation: 14—21 days.
- Turnkey with redevelopment: up to 30 days.
Common mistakes when renovating a combined bathroom
- No floor waterproofing.
- Cost‐cutting on plumbing fixtures.
- Incorrect sewer slope.
- Poor ventilation.
- No inspection hatches.
Mini case study: how to choose a contractor in Tbilisi
Situation: 38 m² apartment, 3.2 m² bathroom.
Solution: shower area + wall‐mounted toilet + niche.
Budget: ≈ $2,200.
Timeframe: 18 days.
What we paid attention to:
- contract and estimate,
- photos of real projects,
- fixed price per m².
Facts
- Up to 60 % of apartments in Tbilisi’s old housing stock have combined bathrooms.
- Waterproofing reduces the risk of leaks by 80 %.
- Large tiles visually increase the space by 10—15 %.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need permission to combine the bathroom and toilet?
In most cases, no, if load‐bearing walls are not affected.
2. Which is cheaper: a bathtub or a shower?
A shower is usually 20—30 % cheaper.
3. Can I renovate in winter?
Yes, seasonality is minimal in Georgia.
4. How much does a turnkey renovation cost?
On average, from $400 per m².
5. Who purchases the materials?
By agreement: the contractor or the owner.
6. Is it realistic to stay within budget?
Yes, with a clear estimate and a fixed price.
If you are planning a renovation, study examples, compare estimates, and don’t be afraid to ask specialists questions.
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