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A couple of weeks ago, we talked about the evolution of our kitchen from utilitarian chores spaces to entertainment, hobby, and wellness spaces.

An equally wonderful transformation has happened to our bathrooms. I still remember the home my husband grew up in here in Jacksonville. It was 4’-6” wide by 7’ long with three fixtures – the epitome of a utilitarian bathroom where you did your business and not much more. And since it was shared by three children, you needed to exit quickly after doing your business.

Yikes! Bathrooms today have grown not only in size but also in status. A resale home with substandard bathrooms presents a real challenge for buyers. Can we say, “Hard pass!”.

The number of Bathrooms

Today, it seems as if there can’t be enough bathrooms – the more the merrier. But let’s look back in time at how many bathrooms were in homes over the years .

No Indoor Plumbing

In the late 1800s, most homes did not have indoor plumbing. Indeed, The Ponce de Leon Hotel in St. Augustine was considered the epitome of luxury when it opened in 1888. It had electricity but the only private bathroom with indoor plumbing was in Henry Flagler’s personal suite. Oops!

One Bathroom

Around the early 1900s (1900-1930), cities began to add water and sewer systems. Hence middle-class houses started to include one bathroom – with one toilet, one sink, and a claw footed bathtub. I recently went to an event hosted by Kohler and they showcased the original trough-tub.

It wasn’t until the 1940s and 1950s that average household included one full bathroom.

the Powder Bath

Large homes built in the 1960s and 1970s began adding the powder bath. It was often fancier than the family bath since it was added to service and impress guests. Today, the powder bath remains highly desirable and often designed as a space brimming with personality.

Two Bathrooms and More

It wasn’t until the 1980 that two baths or more became the industry standard. Of course, in two story homes with all the bedrooms up, a half bath was mandatory. Today if you have four bedrooms, many buyers demand three bathrooms or more. Designing a two compartmented bath with two sinks and a separate room for the tub and toilet is more budget friendly. This allows a child to shower or use the toilet in private while another child or two can brush their teeth – saving crucial time on school mornings!

Today’s Bathroom for Rejuvenation

The term “spa-like” in baths is frankly overused. But what does it mean? It should mean a soothing design and layout that includes natural materials like wood or stone. Consider ample storage for minimal clutter. It also means an awesome shower, beautifully finished with a seat, shampoo niches, and upgraded shower head(s). The larger the better.

Add an on-demand water heater and the duration of the shower can be until the bather feels rejuvenated – however long that is! Don’t forget to include a powerful but quiet exhaust fan capable of keeping the steam under control.

The soaking tub is making a comeback in bathroom. Not the oversized fiberglass monster of the 80s and 90s but free standing, sculptural beauties that you can still relax in. In a world where we are constantly on the go, who doesn’t romanticize the notion of slowing down for a time?

Don’t forget the candles, bath oils, and bubble bath. Locate the tub in front a private garden to add a touch of biophilia!

Nothing kills the spa-like environment like poor lighting. Don’t forget the role of lighting for both mood and function. I like layered lighting that includes both task, mood, and decorative. Why not include an essential oil diffuser in your model for a touch or aromatherapy?

Bathroom for Pampering

Along with rejuvenation, buyers also want to be pampered in their bathrooms. This could mean a heated floor and heated towel bars. I love a pebble stone floor in the shower that messages your feet as your bathe.

Want to go above and beyond? How about including a small refrigerator in your bathroom? Not only can you keep water in there, but also items such as face and eye masks for cold application.

Bathroom as A Beauty Salon

Bathrooms today are taking more roles than in the past. Ever since the blow dryer was introduced as an affordable and convenient way to dry and style your hair, women spend more time in the bathroom. And let’s not forget applying makeup. We initially saw a lower vanity with a knee space for the lady of the house to apply makeup. That has given way to lighted mirrors and wall mounted magnifying mirrors, perfect for applying makeup.

We still want to keep our counters clean, so don’t forget ample storage for hair and beauty products! Bottom line – we are spending a lot more time in our bathrooms getting presentable.

Sexy Bathroom

Sex sells. We’ve all known this for decades by now. By that logic, if you want to sell a house, you need a sexy bathroom. I once heard a builder tell his realtor, “With a bathroom like this, who needs to have sex in the bedroom?” If you’re a movie buff, you may recall many an R-rated bathroom scene. The movie Bull Durham comes to mind – I’m just saying!

What’s Next?

Big or small, a nice bathroom in 2025 is a statement. Have they gotten out of control? They certainly challenge affordability, but their popularity cannot be questioned.

How do you think the space will evolve over the next year or five? I’d love to hear your thoughts!