House and Home
As we search for a new home in the Seattle area, we inevitably imagine how we would personalize each place. Sometimes that means reworking the layout; other times it’s simply cosmetic updates. Very few houses feel absolutely perfect from the start, but that’s part of the excitement—making a space your own with the touches that fit your family’s needs and style.
We tend to favor homes that show good care, since I don’t want to move into a place that needs a complete overhaul before we can settle in. After living through drafty rooms, unwelcome smells, pests and the chore of stripping old wallpaper, I appreciate a house that’s been maintained. Still, I love a home that invites creativity—one I can add to and customize without beginning from scratch.
House and Home
One pattern we’ve noticed in older houses is the limited number of bathrooms—often just one, or two if you’re lucky. Our current home benefits from a powder room plus two full bathrooms, each arranged so the sink and toilet are separate from the shower or tub, which makes getting ready as a family practical and efficient. Previously, we’ve lived comfortably with two bathrooms for five people, so for us, two is usually enough.
That said, I’m intrigued by the idea of a divided bathroom. If a home only has a single bathroom, a little remodeling could create two functional sides—one with a sink and toilet and the other with a sink and shower or tub. This layout can work especially well in tight spaces, converting a single master bath into a more flexible area for family or guests.
House and Home
For greater flexibility and privacy, you could create separate entrances—one opening to a hallway and the other to the master bedroom—with a pocket door between them. That way, the sink and toilet side can be accessible to guests while the shower area remains private. A Jack-and-Jill arrangement can serve both children and adults well, depending on your household’s layout and needs.
I recently came across a bathroom designed by Mandy Milks featured in House & Home. It exemplifies the divided approach: two distinct sides, one with a shower and another with a tub, each with its own sink. I love the dual functionality, the patterned tile floors and the tile surround behind the tub. The tub itself is a striking piece—a modern model finished to look vintage—which adds character without sacrificing comfort. Designing a bathroom from top to bottom is such a joy; there’s something special about creating a space that balances beauty and practicality.
How many bathrooms does your home have?
More Bathroom Design Inspiration Posts:
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Beautiful Bathroom Vanities
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Inspiration: Repurpose Furniture Into Bathroom Vanity
Divided Master Bathrooms: Jack & Jill Style
7 Inspiring Bathroom Designs
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