All you need to know about the open-plan bathroom trend

Open floor plans have long been popular in kitchens, lounges, and dining rooms. In recent years, the walls between bathrooms and bedrooms are also coming down.

While previously a common sight in luxury hotels, modern homes are turning to open-plan bathrooms to maximise space and create spa-like environments. And yes, it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. However, if you keep an open mind, you will be surprised by the benefits and exciting layouts you can achieve when you blur the lines between bedroom and bathroom, privacy and openness, and functionality and aesthetics.

What are open-plan bathrooms?

An open-plan bathroom is a design where the typical barriers or separation between a bathroom and another living space is minimised or removed entirely. In this layout, elements like bathtubs, showers, sinks, and even toilets are integrated directly into another room without conventional enclosing walls or doors.

Open-plan bathrooms are sometimes referred to as open-concept bathrooms. To prevent confusion, this blog post focuses on bathrooms characterised by their integration into other rooms and not those that have a lack of internal walls or partitions separating elements within the same room.

Your property inspiration

This gorgeous home at Langebaan’s Long Acres Country Estate is a treasure trove of exquisite details waiting to be discovered. Among its standout features is an open-plan bathroom that flows into one of the property's six bedrooms while still offering some privacy behind a corner wall. The fixtures, in either a neutral grey or white, blend in effortlessly with the rest of the room’s grey tiles, cupboards, and bedding. The result is a space that feels both soothing as well as functional.Benefits of open-plan bathrooms

Open-plan bathrooms have been gaining traction in modern interior design and for good reason. Like the Langebaan property, you can unlock some key benefits with this approach:

Spacious feel: Without dividing walls, the bathroom feels more spacious and airy. This can make smaller bathrooms appear larger than they actually are.

Enhanced flow: The open layout ensures a smooth transition between different areas of the bathroom, promoting better movement and flow.

Increased natural light: Without walls to block it, natural light can travel freely throughout the space, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day and providing a more pleasant, natural ambience. This can be enhanced with strategically placed bathroom mirrors.

Design flexibility: An open-plan bathroom gives you more creative freedom, allowing for innovative layouts, features, and decor options. You can enjoy bathing with a beautiful view or be able to watch TV while you brush your teeth.

Efficient heating and ventilation: Heat and steam from showers or bathtubs can dissipate more easily in an open space, providing consistent warmth and reducing the chances of mould growth.

Greater accessibility: With fewer barriers and doors, this bathroom type can be easier to navigate, especially for those with mobility challenges.

Easy cleaning: Without the nooks and crannies that come with more segmented spaces, cleaning can become a more straightforward task.

Luxurious look: Many high-end resorts and hotels use open-plan bathrooms to give rooms a luxury spa-like feel, which you can follow for a touch of everyday indulgence.

While privacy, dampness, and a tricky design are some notable cons, a thoughtful design can produce an open-plan bathroom you’ll love.

Tips for designing an open-plan bathroom

Setting up a well-designed open-plan bathroom requires careful planning, consideration of functionality, and an understanding of aesthetics. Here's how to set up one that's both practical and stylish:

Plan your layout by measuring the space and plotting out where each element (like the bathtub, sink, shower, and toilet) will go.

Choose a focal point such as a freestanding tub, a luxurious shower stall, or even a unique vanity to draw attention within the open-plan space.

Opt for appropriate flooring such as porcelain tiles that are non-porous and more durable. Anti-slip options are a good choice to prevent injuries.

Invest in quality elements such as fixtures, fittings, and materials as these will be in full view.

Add privacy measures, especially for the toilet area, such as frosted glass partitions, screens, strategically placed plants, or even half-walls to close off areas.

Create a consistent palette so wall paint or room wallpaper, fixtures, furniture colours, materials, and other design elements flow between your bathroom and bedroom for a unified feel.

Introduce storage through built-in shelves, baskets, and hooks to keep items hidden or in place for an uncluttered look.

Manage moisture with good air ventilation, dehumidifiers, and moisture-resistant materials, especially near the shower area.

Your home should inspire you

Open-plan bathrooms have emerged as a contemporary choice that can help you get the most out of your floor space while giving your home a luxurious feel. If you're looking to buy a property that reflects modern design concepts like this, look to Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty’s curated portfolio of extraordinary homes. Then contact our team at your convenience to set up a viewing.