10/15/2026
The Anatomy of a Dwelling Unit - The Master Bathroom
The bathroom has changed dramatically over the years. What was once a purely utilitarian space has become a place for wellness, relaxation, and retreat. People spend a lot of time in this room, so we need to design it accordingly.
For me, a well-designed primary bathroom starts with the basics: two sinks, good lighting, a large mirror, and a great shower. If there is room for a tub, even better. And don’t forget storage. A linen closet is a bonus, but if you can’t fit one, provide additional cabinetry beyond what is under the sinks. There is never enough storage in an apartment.
If space allows, separate the toilet. And please, no “head-banger” cabinet over it. Think about where the towels actually go. A towel bar needs to be accessible and allow the towel to hang freely—and not over the toilet. Hand towel rings belong next to the sinks, outlets should be available on both sides of the vanity, and a shower niche for bath products should be standard.
Plumbing fixtures are another area I think we sometimes underestimate. They need to look good, but more importantly, they need to perform. There have been tremendous advances in plumbing technology. Delta’s H2Okinetic shower technology, for example, creates the feeling of greater water coverage while using less water.
Do your research. There are so many good products available today that can improve the resident experience without adding square footage.
A great bathroom isn’t about making it bigger or filling it with expensive finishes. It is about getting the details right. That is what turns a bathroom into a retreat.
-
-
-