By zedcoalam The bathroom is one part of a home that is often associated with privacy. Since this is so, it can become difficult to plan an open-space concept for it. Yet an open-space bathroom layout is awesome because it can open up to an adjacent master bedroom. So what needs to be done to address the requirements on space design and privacy?
First, know the benefits that come with an open-space concept. An open-space bathroom layout offers accessibility. Those small spaces can also look bigger with this plan. The space can also serve multiple functions. If you’re lucky to even have natural lighting pouring in, then the open spaces can even borrow illumination from one another.
You also have to know the downside of open-space bathrooms. It could get a lot colder when you bathe since convective airflow will take place. Odor and noise transmission can also easily take place. If you don’t want wet mess, then this is not a concept that you should even mull over.
There are many other reasons why this layout may not work for some homeowners. At the top of this list is the lack of privacy, however, the most private function of the bathroom need not be showcased. What you can do is to consider design options and the factors that dictate those –
Lifestyle Considerations
The chief challenges for an open-space bathroom concept is your lifestyle and that of your partner’s. If you live alone then there’s no problem with this concept. If your daily routine mirrors that of your partner’s then you’re also okay to immediately design your bathroom in this layout.
If, however, you have different morning as well as evening schedules, then the openness might not be the greatest idea for you. Openness, after all, requires sharing the noise of showering, shaving, and brushing your teeth.
The Modest Toilet
Another primary challenge in an open bath is the openness for the toilet. Remember when we said that not every function ought to be shown? Then this is that part that should remain inaccessible to the prying human eyes.
The dedicated room or your toilet should never be the central element of your bathroom – like ever. Remember also to keep this part of the bathroom hidden from view when it is facing a door.
And Then There’s the Privacy
Bathroom privacy is always a matter of personal preference. The bedroom and the bathroom will always be linked because they are both intimate sections of your home. For as long as the bath functions are properly oriented, then you won’t have to worry
Another option is to have both privacy yet openness functions served, meaning, you can have the best of both worlds. Small partitions can be added between the water closet, an alcove that opens to the bedroom, and the area where the bathtub is.
Provide ample skylight or artificial lighting so that even a small wash area can visually open up.
Yet another option is the installation of movable walls. Add huge pocket doors or some sliding partitions to transform your open bath into a more private area once the room is used. A sliding screen may not completely obscure but it is better than having a totally open shower area.
To Open or Not
It is highly unlikely that the open-space bathroom will be adopted by a lot of homes soon. After all, it is not a style that everyone can readily embrace. Those who like modern architecture and contemporary interiors might be more open to this kind of bathroom layout.
Now the big question is, are you, too?
Useful Reference Links
Design Workshop: The Open Concept Bathroom
Bathrooms without borders: the end of privacy at home?
Incredible Open Bathroom Concept for Master Bedroom
Creating an Open Concept Bathroom