A Jack and Jill bathroom is meant to be shared by at least two family members — usually siblings. It is a full-sized bathroom sandwiched between two bedrooms and is accessible from both, although another door can be added, leading to the hallway. With a few considerations, this concept can be a worthwhile addition to your home.
Trusted bathroom remodeler DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Northwest DC discusses what you need to know about the Jack and Jill bathroom, including its pros, cons, and important things to consider.
What’s Inside a Jack and Jill Bathroom?
A typical Jack and Jill bathroom has a double sink or vanity, which means two people can put on makeup or wash their hands without waiting for the other person to finish. The toilet, shower, and tub areas are shared and can be partitioned with walls to ensure privacy. This is so the sinks or vanities will be free to use even when someone’s taking a bath or relieving themselves.
Advantages of Adding a Jack and Jill Bathroom
The following are some of the benefits of having a Jack and Jill bathroom built in your home with the help of a reputable bathroom contractor:
- Maximizes space. Building a Jack and Jill bathroom can open more square footage for other additions, such as a home office or an art studio. It also demonstrates that there is no need for two bathrooms in a floor layout in the majority of circumstances.
- Ideal for larger families. Do you have a large family or a passion for entertaining? If so, a Jack-and-Jill bathroom would be beneficial. To avoid problems, those who will be using the room must decide who will use it first before preparation. Since it can be locked from either side, privacy shouldn’t be an issue in this style of bathroom.
Disadvantages of Adding a Jack and Jill Bathroom
However, you might want to think twice before considering this type of shared bathroom because of these drawbacks:
- Conflict among family members. There may be times when two people need to use the bathroom at the same time. This could result in conflict among family members, especially when young children or teenagers are getting ready in the morning. Unless layout issues and other configurations are considered before remodeling, likely, they won’t enjoy having to wait to use the bathroom.
- May not be functional in the long run. Young siblings who get to use the Jack and Jill bathroom will grow out of it once they get older. As a long-term space, it might no longer make sense. It can also be a problem if you decide to sell your house in a few years.
Helpful Planning Tips
If you are already set on designing your Jack and Jill bathroom, be sure to keep these in mind:
- Work with the experts. Talk to your contractor about your plans for a Jack and Jill bathroom. Consider options that will help you maximize the space, such as two vanities. An enclosed space within the bathroom for the toilet is another excellent alternative.
- Think about privacy. Consider your privacy regardless of who else is in the bathroom. When necessary, you should be able to close the doors to avoid uncomfortable circumstances. Each bedroom should also have exterior locks to ensure its privacy.
You don’t have to look up “bathroom contractor near me” online — DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Northwest DC has a team of skilled and experienced professionals who can help you reach your remodeling goals. Call us at (202) 933-7196, or fill out our contact form to start a conversation with our design experts. We serve homeowners in Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Arlington, McLean, Georgetown, Woodley Park, Friendship Heights, and nearby areas.