Should You Install A Three-Way Bathroom At Home?
While standard bathroom layouts work for many homes, the needs of some homeowners aren't quite served by any of the traditional options. If you find yourself in this category, you may have an unexpected option that could fit the bill. This option is a three-way bathroom.
What is a three-way bathroom, and who might benefit from it the most? Here's what you need to know.
What Is a Three-Way Bathroom?
A three-way bathroom basically divides up the primary activities of the bathroom — sink/vanity, toilet, and shower/tub — and puts doors between them. There are one or two entrances to the bathroom itself, and the arrangement of these three zones can be in any layout that works best.
What Problems Does It Solve?
Why might you want this layout? Some of the best candidates for three-way bathrooms are houses in which kids share bathrooms. Several siblings — and sometimes the parents — sharing a single bathroom is challenging. Conflict often abounds, and there is never enough time for everyone to do everything they need to.
Being able to shut multiple doors allows more to go on at once. It turns a single bathroom into something more akin to two or three rooms. While not a perfect solution, it can make the room drastically more efficient.
In addition, a three-way bathroom could provide a solution when you cannot add an additional bathroom. Some homeowners simply can't extend their homes or find extra space elsewhere for a second or third bathroom. By creating visual and physical separation, one bathroom can be appropriate for guests while still being partially private for the family.
Finally, it's a great way to use the extra space in a large bathroom. The added dividers make the room feel cozier, reduce echoing and noise, and let you customize the zones better.
What Are the Downsides?
There are, of course, downsides to any remodeling choice. The primary detractor to this one is space. You simply need a larger footprint to work with than a standard bathroom. The additional doors and navigation paths all call for more space.
In addition, some homeowners may have to move more plumbing connections in order to achieve the desired separate zones. This is likely to raise the cost of your remodel project.
Where Can You Learn More?
Could a three-way bathroom solve one or more of your home bathroom challenges? Find out more by meeting with a home renovation contractor in your local area.