Northwest Side
Portage Park bathroom remodeling, bungalow by bungalow
How do you make a compact bungalow bathroom work better without moving walls?
Portage Park has a large number of Chicago bungalows, along with other single-family homes and two-flats. Bungalow bathrooms are often modest in size, typically between bedrooms on the main floor.
Housing you'll commonly see
The Chicago bungalow — a brick, one-and-a-half-story home built largely in the early twentieth century — is common in this part of the city, according to groups like the Chicago Bungalow Association. Every property is different, so treat this as context rather than a description of your home.
Work within the footprint
Many bungalow bathrooms can gain usable space by swapping a bulky vanity for a narrower one, recessing storage and replacing a swinging door with a pocket door where the wall allows.
Original tile and windows
Some bungalows still have original wall tile or a window over the tub. Decide whether to restore, reinterpret or replace before demolition begins.
Dormer and attic bathrooms
Expanded attics sometimes hold a second bathroom with sloped ceilings. Fixture placement must respect headroom.
Are there resources for bungalow owners?
The Chicago Bungalow Association offers information for owners of historic bungalows. Check their site for current programs.
Ready to talk through your bathroom?
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