is sufficient, but could be improved with addi-
tional windows if this is a corner room. The
private bath is positioned in such a way that it
can be shared with other rooms if desired.
Bathrooms
The small, drab bathroom of a few years
ago is almost a thing of the past, Figure 7-15A.
Modern homes today have larger, more
pleasant baths, Figure 7-15B. Today’s homes
also have more bathrooms than were used in
the past. All homes require at least one bath-
room. Most modern homes have two or more
baths. Ideally, every bedroom should have its
own bath, though this is often impractical.
Bathrooms may be simple with only the
necessary fixtures or elaborate in design and
function. A dressing or exercise area may be
incorporated in the bath. See Figure 7-16.
These activities require more space and added
facilities. Plan the bath around the functions to
be provided.
Number, Location, and Size
Often the design of the house will indicate
the minimum number of baths needed. If the
house is very small, one bath may be suffi-
cient. In this case, locate the bathroom where it
is most convenient. See Figure 7-17.
A two-story house requires at least 1-1/2
baths—a full bath on the second level near the
bedrooms and a 1/2 bath on the first floor near
the living area. A full bath contains a lavatory,
water closet, and tub or tub/shower combina-
tion. A 1/2 bath is one that typically has only a
water closet and lavatory.
A split-level house also requires at least
1-1/2 baths. Since the bedrooms are located on
the upper level away from the living area,
there is a need for another bath on a lower
level.
A large ranch house requires a minimum
of 2 baths. The bedrooms are usually located in
a wing of the house away from the living area.
Convenience dictates a second bath in the
living area.
Chapter 7 Room Planning—Sleeping Area and Bath Facilities
137
Figure 7-15. A—This small bath wastes no space and contains no frills. B—This large, attractively decorated
bathroom illustrates the use of functional planning for convenience. (Photo courtesy of Kohler Co.)
A B