We’ve long been used to the idea of converting redundant buildings into living spaces. Warehouses, churches, pubs and schools have all found new life as re-imagined, modern dwellings. With prices rising and increasing shortfalls in supply, the search for any hidden gems is on. But not many people would think of converting an old Victorian public toilet into a house, would they? Architect Laura Clark spotted the potential of just such a building in Crystal Palace, south east London. There is a price to be paid for such adventurousness – it took her 6 years to get the title deeds and all the relevant permissions before building works could begin. Less determined people would have given up long ago, but Laura’s persistence eventually paid off.

So, is it really possible to make a toilet feel like a home? Stepping down from street level, the most surprising thing is how light the spaces are, especially considering they are entirely lit via pavement lights above. Also, given it’s location – a junction opposite a bus garage – it’s remarkably quiet. In little more than 600 sq. ft, Laura has managed to include all the things you’d expect in a one bedroom flat: a living room, kitchen/diner, bedroom, bathroom and, believe it or not, a garden in the former Ladies’ stairwell.

It is no surprise that, in the process of converting the interior, many of the original ‘features’ were removed – such as the row of old urinals and the cubicles. However, after a good clean, Laura did manage to keep some of the tiling in the kitchen, as well as the plaque commemorating the facilities’ grand unveiling in 1929.

The garden also serves as a fire escape through the former Ladies stairwell.