5 Ways To Reduce Conflict Points In A Shared Bathroom
Shared bathrooms are a necessary part of many homes, but they can also be a point of conflict among family members. How can you reduce that conflict and make a shared bathroom more pleasant and functional for everyone? Here are five ways to consider in your own remodel project.
1. Analyze Points of Conflict. To solve conflict points, you must first understand what they are. While it's easy to dismiss the shared bathroom as simply too busy, find the best solutions by targeting your particular obstacles. Are you in each other's way? Do you both need to get ready for work at the same time? Is one person taking over the available counter or storage space? Find the root problems so you can address these.
2. Duplicate Fixtures. Don't be afraid to double up when necessary. Many shared bathrooms start with a longer double sink vanity. But consider duplicating storage options on two sides, adding a separate shower and bathtub, or installing additional entrances to prevent people from getting in each other's way coming and going.
3. Design with Zones. A zone-based system separates room features by function. For instance, rather than installing one long double vanity, you might separate the sink station from a grooming station. The fact is that many people don't need the sink in order to fix hair, makeup, or accessories. By creating a separate zone for these activities, you reduce conflict around the sinks.
4. Create His-and-Hers Spaces. Provide the feeling of separate bathrooms in one space by dividing it into thirds. One-third in the middle is for shared fixtures, such as a shower or toilet room. On either side is a room with the rest of the fixtures — including an entrance, sink, toilet, or grooming station — placed as a mirror of its opposite. The result means only a small part of the bathroom is actually shared.
5. Consider Reducing Elements. Sometimes the answer to conflicts isn't to add more elements. Could you benefit from removing some instead? If the bathtub, for instance, doesn't get regular use, is it taking up space that could be utilized better? Do you really need a large double vanity if you're not using the sinks at the same time? If not, you might return to a single sink setup and use the extra space for a larger shower system or just better traffic flow.
Where to Start
Want more tips for crafting a shared bathroom that can make everyone happy at the same time? Start by meeting with an experienced bathroom remodeling contractor in your area today.
Contact a company like S.J.O. Corp. for more information.
