I talk to many Seattle homeowners about design challenges they face, and one of the most common complaints is not having enough bathrooms. If you are contemplating a major remodel, you might be faced with the decision to keep one bathroom in the hall for everyone to use. Or, you might be able to squeeze in multiple smaller bathrooms.
But what if there was a better, more space-efficient solution? Meet the Jack and Jill bathroom: a practical and often overlooked option that maximizes convenience and privacy. Before we dive into the benefits of a Jack and Jill bathroom, let’s define what it is and why it could be the perfect addition to your Seattle home.
Your Guide to Jack and Jill Bathrooms
What is a Jack and Jill Bathroom?
The Jack and Jill bathroom gets its name from the nursery rhyme about two siblings.
By definition, a Jack and Jill bathroom design is a shared bathroom placed in between two bedrooms. The bathroom has a door on each side of the room so that each bedroom has separate access. Most homes with this bathroom layout will also have a third door that leads into the hallway from the bathroom, giving guests access as well.
Interestingly enough, you may have seen this kind of bathroom arrangement on the TV sitcom The Brady Bunch. The Brady kids shared a single bathroom accessible from either end of two bedrooms. This bathroom style is ideal for siblings, guest rooms, and multi-generational living.
Source: commons.wikimedia.org
Why Choose a Jack and Jill Bathoom?
There are several advantages to choosing a Jack and Jill bathroom layout in your home. Here are some of them:
Convenience
No more hallway traffic jams! A Jack and Jill bathroom gives easy access to the bathroom. The kids don’t have to go out into the hallway to make their way to the bathroom and then back again, so it’s a convenient and time-saving arrangement.
Reduces the Number of Bathrooms You Need
Adding a separate bathroom for each bedroom can be costly and take up space. Putting in a shared Jack and Jill bathroom, on the other hand, can save you money by cutting down on plumbing, fixtures and construction materials.
Maximizes Space In Your Home
A Jack and Jill bathroom is a real estate space saver because it brings together what would have been two separate baths for different bedrooms.
Bathrooms take up otherwise useful space in the house. Instead of using all the space for a bath and toilet area, you can make bigger bedrooms, making all family members happy.
See also: Average Bedroom Sizes in American Homes: Remodeling and Design Tips
Maintains Privacy
Worried about privacy? Jack and Jill bathrooms feature locking doors on both sides, thus ensuring that whoever is inside can use the space without interruptions. For additional privacy, you could create a sink area that is separate from the toilet and shower.
.jpg?width=798&name=Untitled-1%20(1).jpg)
Fully Customizable
Whether your decor aesthetic is modern, farmhouse or transitional (something else entirely), a Jack and Jill bathroom is just as customizable as a typical bathroom layout. You have the option to put in bath fixtures and sinks that suit your fancy. Plus, the kids can chime in and make their bathroom just the way they want it.
Must-Have Features for a Functional Jack and Jill Bathroom
Here are some of the things you may consider including in your bathroom floor plan to make the Jack and Jill bath work for everyone:
Two Sinks
Seattle-Area Bathroom Remodeling
Just like in The Brady Bunch, putting in two sinks is a great idea. Apart from giving the kids a sense of independence, it makes morning rushes all the more easier.
The hair-combing and teeth-brushing can take place simultaneously over both sinks, saving you time in the morning.
Extra Storage
The Jack and Jill bath would not be complete without extra space for family members to store their stuff. To avoid those nasty sibling battles, it helps to put in some extra storage, preferably on each side of the two sinks. Here are some ideas:
- Freestanding storage baskets
- Tiered sink stands
- Rotating corner shelves
See also: 5 Tips for Adding Bathroom Storage
Three-Way Light Switch
The kids should be able to turn the lights on or off from either side. With that in mind, a three-way switch is a perfect solution to ensure the kids can access the lights from the two bedrooms.
Pocket Doors
If space is an issue, you may want to consider sliding doors as an alternative to swinging doors for each entryway into the two bedrooms. For privacy (to keep the Brady Bunch-level squabbles at bay), look for pocket-door latch hardware that has a secure locking mechanism. (Most don't.)
Planning Your Jack and Jill Bathroom Layout
Designing a Jack and Jill bathroom requires thoughtful planning to ensure it functions well for years to come. Here’s what to consider:
Jack and Jill Bathroom Floor Plans
The first step is to plan your layout and map out where everything goes.
You will have to consider how the bathroom will contribute to your home's resale value, as well as how the two separate bedrooms’ positions and components will fit together.
For example, you don’t want to put a toilet right next to the door.
There’s also the matter of the kids growing up. You want your bathroom to remain just as useful and appropriate as they get older.
Working with a professional who understands the design issues from the start may save you a lot of stress and money.
Choose Your Fittings and Accessories Last
I recommend that you wait to choose fixtures, surfaces, and accessories until after you have settled on a floor plan. Approach the design of your Jack and Jill bathroom from a usability perspective first and only then start picking out the fun accessories. You'll be rewarded with a highly functional, beautiful new space.
