September 25, 2023, 4:46 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Bathroom and Bedroom Combined: The so-called en suite bathroom is gaining popularity here as well. What makes it special and where the advantages and disadvantages lie.
What seems somehow original in a hotel might initially make many people skeptical in a real estate ad: a bathroom in the bedroom. In some European countries, but especially in America, the so-called en suite bathroom has long been a staple of home culture, whereas it was long perceived as strange here. However, a new trend in home design is emerging with the en suite bathroom.
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What exactly is an en suite bathroom?
The term en suite bathroom originally comes from French and means something like “connected” or “in the room.” Accordingly, such a space involves the direct connection of the bathroom to the bedroom. The bathroom can adjoin the bedroom as a separate area and be accessible only through it.
Alternatively, it can be a direct part of the bedroom. Either way, an individual bathroom offers more privacy than a family bathroom, which is regularly used by several people. While a bathtub in close proximity to the bed or an openly visible shower may initially seem unusual, both can certainly have their advantages in everyday life.
The Advantages
The trend toward open space concepts has already taken hold in kitchens in recent years. Now it’s the bathroom’s turn: Here, too, the merging of bathroom and bedroom seems to be becoming increasingly attractive. The spacious feeling alone meets the expectations of many. After all, two important needs, relaxation and sleep, are fulfilled in this space. The short walk to the sink in the morning, which takes only a few seconds without encountering other people, also speaks for an en suite bathroom.
Additionally, in your own bathroom, you are responsible for its hygienic condition and what items accumulate there. The furnishings are entirely up to you: A freestanding tub near the bed evokes romantic associations. If you prefer a visual separation in the room, it’s best to install frosted, tinted, or clear glass walls. Alternatively, setting up a room divider is recommended to create more privacy in the bathroom.
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The Disadvantages
Of course, unconventional bathroom designs also have their drawbacks. Especially when an en suite bathroom is used by a couple, the lack of privacy can sometimes become a test of the relationship. Not everyone appreciates this kind of openness in daily life. To prevent this problem, it can help to install half or even ceiling-high partitions. If you prefer a private bathroom but don’t want to sacrifice privacy, it’s better to opt for an en suite bathroom as an adjoining room.
The issue of moisture buildup should also be considered in room planning, as we generally like it warm for bathing and cooler for sleeping. Factors like insulation and air exchange should be discussed with an expert. Otherwise, the moisture spreading in the room after a shower can quickly settle into textiles or wallpaper and, in the worst case, lead to mold growth.