Partially open bathrooms generally refer to a facility where the shower and toilet are enclosed in a separate room while the sink and mirror are out in the open.
The rooms are a mixture of a traditional and an open bathroom design where the toilet, shower, sink, and mirror are not in an enclosed room.
Most partially open bathrooms have a divider between the washing area and the sleeping room.
The divider can be a curtain, wooden slats, or a transparent screen. This design is trending these days in hotels, which makes a small space feel bigger while maximizing the space.
Partially Open Bathroom: An Inside Look
One of the benefits of a partially open bathroom is that it makes a small bathroom space feel more spacious as the sink and the mirror is outside the living area.
The design is less controversial than a completely open bathroom. Most people are repulsed by the concept of an open bathroom since it allows less privacy.
The open bathroom concept is not a new one though. People in ancient Rome used to have large open public bathroom spaces.
The concept remerged during modern times in the late 2000s with global five-star hotels creating rooms with visible shower and bath areas.
This concept was used in such well-known hotel chains as the Ritz-Carlton in Dallas, Waldorf Hilton in London, and Capital Hotel in Beijing.
Guests had mixed reactions to the open spaces depending on whom they were traveling with during their stay at the hotel.
Partially open bathroom spaces are an outcome of the strong criticism of the completely open bathroom design.
Design Tips for Partially Open Bathroom Spaces
Partially open bathroom designs have no rules or restrictions. You can design the bathroom in any way you like.
You can opt to have the shower and sink out in the open while the toilet is within an enclosed space.
With a partially open bathroom design, you can experiment with new design styles to see what looks best.
1. Hiring a Contractor for Partially Open Bathroom Design
Creating a partially open bathroom design is not just about having to install a sink and mirror in the open.
It requires experience and skill to design a partially open washroom that is aesthetically pleasing and functional at the same time.
Making a mistake when designing a partially open bathroom space will result in a wastage of money.
The room will look inadequate creating an unpleasant look.
A successful design has everything to do with the expertise of the architect. It involves understanding the proportions and deciding how to ensure optimum use of limited space.
You need to hire a designer for designing a good-looking partially open bathroom space.
2. Placement of Bathtub
A bathtub can serve as a focal point in a partially open bathroom space. Placing the bathtub outside will create a spa-like atmosphere.
It will make the room similar to a posh indoor-outdoor villa. You can easily converse with your partner while relaxing in a bathtub located next to the bedroom.
Generally, the shower area is located far from the bedroom with a wet zone buffer.
The buffer includes a slightly sloped floor that directs water towards the drain area. Space must also have a powerful fan to prevent steam from coming inside the bathroom area.
If you are not happy about bathing in front of others, you can forgo the placement of the bathtub outside and instead install a small tub inside the bathroom.
3. Installation of a Divider
If you want some privacy with a partially open bathroom design, you can separate the area with a sliding or fixed divider.
You can create a custom divider with a double vanity mirror on both sides. Another option is to have a mirror on the bathtub side and storage on the bedside.
Moreover, you can also have a half wall with a floating mirror. The half-wall can add interest to the room while dividing the shower area.
Space above can be left open or you can suspend a chandelier from the ceiling that will create a point of interest.
Another option is to install sliding dividers. The sliding divider can be in the form of a retractable wall that closes the bath area for some privacy.
Moreover, a curtain made of velvet material can also serve as a sliding divider.
A high-tech option is the smart glass panels that have been installed in public toilets in Tokyo. The panels turn from opaque to transparent with the push of a switch.
4. Privacy for Toilets
In an open bathroom design, the toilets are installed in an enclosed space. They are better than a fully open bathroom space since there is no issue of unpleasant sounds and smells.
You should also consider installing a pane with frosted glass as a divider to spate the toilet.
Moreover, putting down cork flooring or a thick rug can muffle unpleasant sounds associated with the use of the toilet.
An indoor water fountain can also add additional muffling of unpleasant sounds.
5. Create a Bathroom Zone
An effective tip for a partially open bathroom design is to create a bathroom zone behind a wall.
This involves installing a partial wall about two-thirds of the way inside a space. The wall can be covered in a mural or feature wallpaper.
You should create a bathroom zone behind the bed. The enclosed toilet and shower recess should be opposite the bedroom wall.
The side can also have a vanity mirror and storage unit for toiletries and towels.
6. Consider the Overall Décor
When designing a partially open bathroom, you should consider the overall décor of the room. Look at the overall style when designing the space.
For instance, if the sink and the faucet color are blue and the wall color is red, it will create a distracting look.
You should select a color scheme for the bathroom based on the color of the bedroom.
In case the bedroom walls are burgundy, you should select bathroom accessories of the same color. The goal is to make sure that the adjacent walls have the same color.
The overall décor should match if the bathroom is located adjacent to the master bedroom.
However, if the partially open bedroom is situated in the hallway or other similar area, the matching of the color is not necessary.
7. Practical Partially Open Bathroom Layouts
You need to consider the bathroom layout that takes advantage of every inch of the bathroom space.
Consider the location of the bathroom fixtures and storage cabinets. Also, you should decide whether you want a tub or a shower in the bedroom area.
When selecting a particular bathroom design it’s all about your personal preference. You should consider a layout that is aesthetically pleasing, safe, and practical for you.
You can give plenty of open space to the bathroom by organizing the functional area around the focal point. Consider placing the cabinets and fixtures around the washing area.
8. Ventilation
You should not ignore the ventilation when designing a partially open bathroom. The open space will require more ventilation to ensure a pleasant environment.
Not installing the ventilation can result in mold and mildew problems due to the moisture. Moreover, the moisture can also result in structural problems that will be costly to repair.
You can install a hopper ventilation device on the door. The hopper unit is a window that allows steam to escape from the room. The unit will expel damp air out of the room.
A powerful ventilation unit is required for a partially open bathroom space.
The Home Ventilation Institute recommends that bathrooms should have an exhaust fan with 1 CFM (cubic per minute) per square foot rating. Large open spaces should have a ventilation unit with a 50 to 100 CFM rating.
Apart from ventilation fans, ceiling mount fans and wall mount fans can also aid in proper ventilation of the partially open bathroom space.
9. Budget Requirements
You keep the budget requirements in mind when designing a partially open bathroom. Consider the cost when selecting the following for the partially open bathroom space.
- Fixtures
- Flooring
- Countertops
Planning for space depends on how much you intend to spend.
The price tag of the partially open bathroom space will be higher if you want the most aesthetically pleasing and soothing space for the bathroom.
Space planning all depends on your lifestyle and the way you use the space.
However, keep in mind when planning that if you must move the plumbing to accommodate your new design, the price tag of your project will be much higher than if the “guts” of your bathroom can stay put.
That said, layout options are more limited when relying on existing plumbing hookups, drains, ventilation, etc.
Alternatives to Partially Open Bathrooms
If you’re considering a bathroom remodel or designing a new home, you may have come across the concept of partially open bathrooms.
These designs combine elements of traditional and open bathrooms by enclosing the shower and toilet in separate rooms while keeping the sink and mirror out in the open. Although this layout has its advantages, there are also various alternatives to consider.
One common alternative is a completely enclosed bathroom. In this design, the entire bathroom is contained within a single enclosed space. This layout provides maximum privacy for all users and is especially suitable if you have a family or share your home with roommates.
A completely enclosed bathroom helps maintain a more hygienic environment by keeping the toilet, sink, and shower all within a separate space, away from the bedroom or other living areas.
Another option is the split bathroom design. In this layout, the bathroom is divided into two separate spaces. One area contains the toilet and a sink, while the other houses the shower or bathtub and another sink.
This arrangement offers more privacy compared to a partially open bathroom while still facilitating easy access to the sink and mirror areas. It can be particularly useful in homes with multiple people sharing the same bathroom, as it allows for simultaneous use without compromising privacy.
A more innovative alternative is the toilet room concept, which separates the toilet into its own private space away from the rest of the bathroom.
This design ensures privacy and minimizes unwanted smells spreading throughout the bathroom or adjacent areas. In some instances, the remaining bathroom space is left completely open, with a shower and sink integrated into the main living or bedroom area.
To decide which approach is best for your home, consider factors such as:
- Your personal preferences and priorities for privacy
- The number of people sharing the bathroom
- The available space for the bathroom in your home
By exploring different bathroom layouts, you can find an option that strikes the perfect balance between privacy and openness for your specific needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the features of a partially open bathroom?
A partially open bathroom is a design concept that blends open and enclosed spaces within a bathroom layout. It usually consists of a separate room for the shower and toilet, while the sink and mirror are out in the open or within the main living area.
Common elements include glass partitions, half walls, or dividers to create distinct zones while maintaining a sense of connectivity.
How do partially open bathrooms differ from traditional ones?
Traditional bathrooms typically have all of their fixtures, like the toilet, shower, sink, and mirror, enclosed in one separate room.
In contrast, partially open bathrooms combine open and enclosed spaces, providing a modern and stylish layout.
Why do hotels choose to have partially open bathrooms?
Hotels may opt for partially open bathrooms for a variety of reasons, such as maximizing space in small rooms and creating an appealing, contemporary aesthetic.
This style can also provide increased natural light and improved ventilation, contributing to a more comfortable guest experience.
What are the pros and cons of having a partially open bathroom?
Pros of partially open bathrooms:
- Stylish and modern design
- Optimal use of space in small rooms
- Improved natural light and ventilation
Cons of partially open bathrooms:
- Reduced privacy for the user
- Potential increased noise levels
Are partially open bathrooms suitable for all types of guests?
Partially open bathrooms may not be suitable for everyone, as privacy concerns could be an issue for some guests.
However, the design is generally well-received by those who appreciate modern aesthetics and improved functionality. Be sure to consider your personal preferences and comfort levels before booking a room with a partially open bathroom.
How does privacy work in partially open bathrooms?
Despite the openness of the design, privacy in partially open bathrooms still exists. The enclosed spaces for the toilet and shower provide sufficient privacy, while the open sink and mirror area give a sense of spaciousness.
The primary difference comes from the possibility that others might see you while using the sink or mirror, but it’s worth noting that hotels often think of privacy while implementing these designs.
Final Remarks
You should contemplate before opting for a partially open bathroom. The design can result in a dynamic and spacious master suite when done well.
However, you may have to sacrifice some privacy with a partially open bathroom design.
Your decision to convert an existing bathroom space to a partially open space also depends on your length of stay in the house.
If you intend to stay in the house for a few years, it will not be a wise choice to convert the bathroom design to a partially open design.
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