With housing prices skyrocketing and space at a premium in many urban areas, more couples are opting to have separate bathrooms. While this may seem extreme, there are some valid reasons behind this emerging trend.
The Benefits of His and Hers Bathrooms
Having your own bathroom comes with a number of advantages:
More Privacy
Sharing a bathroom often means one person ends up waiting on the other. With his and hers bathrooms, couples can enjoy complete privacy and uninterrupted time getting ready in the morning.
Personalized Spaces
Individual bathrooms allow each partner to customize their space to their own taste. One may prefer a spa-like retreat while the other wants a more utilitarian set-up. His and hers bathrooms eliminate decorative compromises.
Avoiding Clutter
With two bathrooms, couples double their storage and counter space. Toiletries, cosmetics, grooming tools, and other items don’t have to cram into one small area or get divided up. Both partners can fully spread out.
Containing Messes
Whether it’s scattered stubble in the sink or a messy pile of makeup, having two bathrooms keeps clutter contained to each person’s area. Couples don’t have to deal with each other’s grooming messes.
More Efficient Routines
With two bathrooms, couples can carry out their morning routines in parallel rather than take turns. His and hers bathrooms can shave precious minutes off the morning rush.
Designing His and Hers Bathrooms
Converting to his and hers bathrooms involves some key design considerations:
- Ensure adequate plumbing and ventilation are in place to service multiple baths.
- Decide on a space allocation that feels fair and balanced to both parties.
- Select finishes, fixtures, and layouts that suit each partner’s preferences.
- Include abundant built-ins and storage to keep each bathroom well organized.
- Allow room in both bathrooms for shared or duplicated functions like laundry.
- Set a decorating scheme for each bathroom that captures individual personalities.
The Key to Harmony: Communication
Transitioning to his and hers bathrooms can uncover unexpected issues like differing cleanliness standards. The key is maintaining open communication:
- Discuss bathroom etiquette like lowering toilet seats and cleaning hair out of drains.
- Establish a clear cleaning schedule so both bathrooms get maintained.
- Compromise on rules like shutting doors to contain odors or noises.
- Address problems as they arise instead of letting resentments build up.
- Consider alternate set-ups like Jack-and-Jill bathrooms if tensions persist.
Perks Beyond the Bathroom
While separate bathrooms obviously provide more privacy and personal space, they can also:
- Free up sinks to get ready together before big nights out.
- Provide an out-of-the-way spot for sick partners to convalesce.
- Accommodate overnight guests more comfortably.
- Create a peaceful retreat to unwind after work.
- Foster healthier cohabitation by reducing conflicts.
So while his and hers bathrooms may seem over-the-top, they offer meaningful benefits for many couples. With good communication and planning, separate bathrooms can be a boost rather than a barrier to domestic bliss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are his and hers bathrooms becoming more popular?
Yes, as more couples value personal space and customization, split bathrooms are definitely gaining popularity. Surveys show a significant percentage of couples opt for two bathrooms when building or remodeling homes.
What size should his and hers bathrooms be?
Ideally each bathroom should be at least 5′ x 8′ to accommodate basics like a shower, toilet, and single vanity. Larger sizes allow for double vanities, soaking tubs, and more extensive storage.
How do you divide up sink space?
A common approach is putting common grooming gear like toothpaste in one bathroom and individual items like makeup in the other. Some couples install double vanities in both bathrooms.
Can his and hers bathrooms save a marriage?
While not a cure-all, private bathrooms can eliminate many daily frustrations couples experience sharing space. For some, separate bathrooms lessen tensions and promote happier cohabitation.
What if one partner spends more time in the bathroom?
If one partner hogs the bathroom, some good solutions are adding a vanity space outside the bathroom, installing a jack-and-jill bathroom, or simply setting boundaries.
Conclusion
His and hers bathrooms are part of a larger trend toward more personalized, private spaces within homes. While a dramatic step for some, separate bathrooms can foster healthier relationships by reducing conflicts over sharing intimate space. With good design and plenty of communication, his and hers bathrooms offer a new domestic bliss.
