white vanity and a large tub

Design Notes

CREATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR MULTIPLE USERS IN THE HOME

What happens when you need a space to work hard for more than one person, but there is a limit on square footage? You get creative, of course! A good design is everything when planning an area that needs to function for multiple people. When more than one person uses a space, there are special needs, such as separate storage areas and functionality. Our houses are often shared by multiple people, and with multigenerational homes becoming more common, there is a need for designers to create spaces that maximize storage, emphasize individuality, and blend them into a unifying whole. Whether it is the bathroom, kitchen, or family room, with a little well-planned strategy, you can implement creative solutions for the multiple users in your home.

Designing A Bathroom For Sharing

The bathroom is the essential start to everyone’s day, and when multiple people use it, things can get pretty hectic as everyone tries to keep track of their belongings. Sometimes an increase in square footage isn’t possible, but by rethinking the layout or specific features, you can achieve significant improvements. Select a vanity that maximizes storage and has drawers. Assign a drawer to each member, so they have a space of their own to store their belongings, avoiding confusion or conflict, especially among siblings. Don’t forget to use wall space; it is a great untapped resource, as you can hang hooks for each person or add additional shelving. If it is feasible, consider choosing a vanity with double sinks, so two people can attend to their hygiene needs at the same time, and there is more counter space, too. Small containers such as baskets or boxes can be used to store items like jewelry or toiletries and to minimize clutter.

You can also opt to include custom features in the vanity, such as a docking drawer that provides an extra outlet or deep drawers for storing larger, taller items used by everyone, which limits what needs to be placed on the counter. Some great places to look for ideas include Pinterest and Houzz. Don’t forget to browse designer blogs and magazines for additional inspiration. When making color choices, rather than trying to satisfy everyone’s preferences, go with a neutral theme, such as a coastal or contemporary vibe. Select flooring that complements a broad range of styles, such as wood tones or soft hues. Backsplash is a great way to add a little fun that is agreeable to many and can bring a little pop to the space without overpowering it. Look at places like Etsy for custom options and unique finds to make the space feel personalized for everyone. By styling with options that have broad appeal and few custom features, you can create a bathroom that works for the many rather than the few.

green bathroom with tile floors