When two bedrooms share a bathroom, this is commonly referred to as a “Jack and Jill bathroom.” A Jack and Jill bathroom connects two bedrooms, with doors opening into each bedroom. This allows the occupants of both rooms to access the bathroom without having to enter the hallway.
Definition of a Jack and Jill Bathroom
The term “Jack and Jill bathroom” comes from the old nursery rhyme about Jack and Jill who went up a hill. In a home, it refers to a bathroom that is shared between two bedrooms. The bathroom has a door opening into each bedroom, allowing access from both rooms.
Some key characteristics of a Jack and Jill bathroom:
- Connects two bedrooms next to each other
- Has doors entering from both adjoining bedrooms
- Occupants of both bedrooms can access the bathroom privately
- More efficient use of plumbing than two separate full bathrooms
Jack and Jill bathrooms are a popular option in many homes, from apartments to luxury estates. They allow family members or roommates to share a bathroom conveniently without compromising much privacy.
Benefits of a Jack and Jill Bathroom
There are several benefits that make a Jack and Jill bathroom an appealing option in many homes:
Privacy
Unlike a hallway bathroom shared by the whole family, a Jack and Jill design provides more privacy. The only people who access the bathroom are the occupants of the two adjoining bedrooms. They don’t have to worry about running into siblings, parents or roommates in the bathroom.
Convenience
It’s very convenient for the occupants of both bedrooms to have direct bathroom access. This setup avoids having to go out to a hallway bathroom every time you need to use the facilities.
Efficient Plumbing
Having one shared Jack and Jill bathroom requires less plumbing than constructing two full separate bathrooms side-by-side. The shared vanity, toilet and bathtub use fewer drainage pipes and supply lines.
Space Saving
Compared to building two bathrooms side-by-side, a Jack and Jill plan has a smaller footprint. You save space in the floor plan by consolidating sinks, showers, tubs and toilets into one room.
Cost Effective
Constructing one larger bathroom instead of two full bathrooms reduces building costs. You’ll buy fewer bathroom fixtures and accessories while using less labor for the plumbing, tiling and finishing.
Disadvantages of a Jack and Jill Bathroom
While very useful in many homes, there are a few potential disadvantages to weigh with a Jack and Jill bathroom design:
Noise Transfer
With openings into two bedrooms, more noise travels through the bathroom to the other room. Running bathwater or using the toilet might disturb someone trying to sleep.
Lack of Total Privacy
Since two people share access, you don’t quite get the complete privacy of your own personal bathroom. At times you might have to wait for the other occupant to finish before you can use it.
Door Locking
The doors to each bedroom must have locks to prevent accidental intrusions. But you also don’t want someone to get locked out if another person is using the facilities.
Resale Value
Some home buyers prefer two full bathrooms side-by-side rather than one Jack and Jill. This shared design may limit resale value compared to two separate baths.
Jack and Jill Bathroom Design Tips
Here are some useful tips when designing a functional and comfortable Jack and Jill bathroom:
Size Appropriately
Make sure the bathroom is sized suitably for two users. Have generous countertop space with potentially two sinks. Size the shower and tub appropriately for two as well.
Plan Door Swing Carefully
Consider the door swing direction carefully so the doors don’t hit each other. Outward swinging doors work well for safety and space savings.
Include Personal Storage
Design in towel hooks, racks and drawer space for each user. This allows both occupants to store personal items conveniently in the shared bath.
Choose Shared Fixtures
Opt for shared fixtures between the two vanities rather than two sets. For example, pick one shared mirror over a double vanity instead of two mirrors.
Allow Natural Lighting
A window or skylight adds natural light, ventilation and an open feeling. Just have window treatments for privacy when needed.
Minimize Noise Transfer
Use thick doors with tight seals and noise-dampening insulation between the walls. This reduces sound transmission for more acoustic privacy.
Add Useful Amenities
Consider features like built-in shelving, towel warmers, and even a TV for convenient shared use while getting ready in the morning.
Cost to Remodel a Jack and Jill Bathroom
If converting an existing bathroom into a Jack and Jill design, renovation costs vary based on the details and finishes. Here are typical bathroom remodel price ranges:
| Bathroom Remodel Type | Typical Cost Range |
| Minor remodel – bathtub refacing, new sinks, vanities, relaid tile | $3,500 – $7,000 |
| Moderate remodel – new sinks, vanities, bathtub, relaid tile, some drywall, lighting, painting | $7,000 – $15,000 |
| Full remodel – gut renovation, new layout, all new fixtures, finishes, electrical, lighting, ventilation | $15,000 – $35,000 |
Factors affecting the final cost include the bathroom size, chosen finishes like tile and countertops, special features added, and if any structural changes are needed.
DIY vs Hiring a Contractor
Converting to a Jack and Jill bathroom layout takes plumbing skills, carpentry, drywall work and finishing. Hiring a professional contractor is recommended for the best results and to comply with building codes.
Minor cosmetic updates like painting or new bath accessories can be DIY. But taking on full structural renovations as a DIY project is only practical if you have the needed skills.
Alternatives to a Jack and Jill Bathroom
There are a few other options to consider instead of a shared Jack and Jill bath:
Two Full Bathrooms
Having two separate full bathrooms side-by-side is an alternative, albeit with higher construction costs. This provides fully private facilities for each bedroom.
Hallway Bathroom
Placing a bathroom in the hallway equally accessible to both bedrooms is simpler. But this provides less privacy than a Jack and Jill.
Master Bathroom
For a master bedroom, adding an en-suite bathroom provides private access without needing to share.
Half Bathroom
For bedrooms that don’t need a full bath, a half bath in the hall with just a toilet and sink is an option.
The best option depends on space, budget and the privacy needs of the home’s residents.
Conclusion
A Jack and Jill bathroom provides a convenient, space-saving way for two bedrooms to share access to a bathroom. The adjoining doors allow private access from each room. Compared to building two full bathrooms side-by-side, a Jack and Jill uses less space and fewer materials for potential cost savings.
The shared design comes with some downsides as well, like increased noise transfer and possible conflicts accessing the single bath. Careful planning is needed for elements like door swings, storage, lighting and finishes. But overall, a well-designed Jack and Jill bathroom can be an efficient and comfortable option in many homes and apartments.