Modern cottage owners prioritize comfort and convenience, even on their suburban plots. Anything that simplifies life quickly becomes a must-have in cottage living. Essential amenities like water, electricity, and, of course, a functional toilet top the list. When we purchased our country plot a few years ago, it came with a small shed, a summer kitchen, and an old, rundown toilet. It was so unpleasant that we avoided using it whenever possible.
Recently, we decided it was time for a change. We kicked off our cottage renovations by tackling the toilet first. Instead of simply repairing the existing structure, my husband took on the challenge of building an entirely new restroom from scratch. He didn’t stop there—he also gave the interior a complete makeover, transforming it into a clean, modern space.
Though it remains an outdoor toilet, its updated look and functionality have completely satisfied me. My husband managed the entire build using materials we already had lying around the house and plot, so we didn’t have to spend a dime.
The structure consists of wooden planks and beams, which I painted myself. We used sheet metal for the roof, giving it a fresh coat of paint, and fashioned the door from plywood, adding an old handle we had on hand. Even the vanity for the sink was salvaged from our supplies.
The toilet and sink were leftovers from a previous apartment renovation when we replaced all the plumbing. Thankfully, my husband had saved them, turning what seemed like junk into a smart, eco-friendly choice.
Now, we enjoy a fully functional restroom inside the cottage, bringing a new level of comfort to our country retreat. We kept the outdoor toilet too, and that’s when inspiration struck—my husband could offer his skills to neighbors, building similar convenient and stylish toilets for their cottages. Not only would this create an extra source of income, but it would also help improve the quality of life for others in our community.
