Is an open-concept bathroom the right choice for you?

Interior design trends are being inspired by the hospitality world. Many posh hotels in New York City and other bustling metropolises are featuring open-concept bathrooms. These modern suites range in style and appearance, but all lack a traditional border between the bedroom
and the bathroom. This layout isn’t for everyone. Here is an overview of the design choices you could make if you featured this look in your home. Then you can decide if you want to take the plunge and remodel your quarters after this trend.

Why combine the bedroom and bathroom?
Modern suites in swanky hotels are modeled after this look simply because it’s aesthetically appealing and trends are moving in that direction. Hotels often don’t have any space constraints to deal with, but choose this open plan anyway. It’s similar to kitchen walls being torn down to add access to the living room. Vintage tubs such as clawfoot and pedestal models show that consumers aren’t only interested in bathing. Homeowners want a relaxing spa-like environment that is achieved by deep soaking basins of freestanding tubs.

Tearing down walls
Open bathrooms work well with master bedroom suites. These units are often connected to a bathing facility so you won’t have to hire a plumber to create a new bathroom. When choosing a wall to tear down, it’s best to go with the simplest choice. Get rid of the wall that both the bathroom and bedroom share. Of course, consult with a contractor to make sure none of
the walls you tear down are load bearing. Then start knocking down borders.

Completely open – If you wish, you can completely take down the wall. Place your bed on one side of the room and your bathroom on the other. Some designers choose to set the bathtub or entire room on a pedestal to hint at room separation. You can create the same effect with different flooring treatments like carpet for the bedroom and wood or tile for the bathroom.

Glass walls – Another route involves tearing down the drywall and installing glass in its place. You can opt for streamlined glass with no borders or frames. Or you can add paneling around the perimeter to mimic vintage bathroom design.

Half wall – Just like some kitchens have a half wall revealing a peak into the next room, you can do the same in the bathroom. In this case, you just knock down the top half of the wall and leave an open space to let light in. This option is good for homeowners who are concerned about privacy.

Other decor
If a homeowner needs partitions, a curtain can be installed in between both rooms. This is perfect if kids or guests will be using the space. Also, the toilet area may need to be confined to its own space. In this case you can simply close it off. Just install drywall around the toilet and include a door. Or, if you just need a bit of privacy, opt for a large wall to block the view of the toilet from the rest of the bedroom.