If you’ve ever scanned real estate listings, you've probably noticed bathroom sizes are fractional. However, it's not the bathroom’s square footage that determines if it’s a half, full or three-quarter bath.


Instead, it's the number of elements present in the bathroom.


A whole bathroom includes four elements: at least one sink, a toilet, a bathtub and a shower. The shower may be standalone or built into the bathtub.

A three-quarters bath includes a sink, toilet and shower. Older homes may include a bathtub instead of a standalone shower.

A half bath includes a toilet and a sink — “half” of the number of elements as a full bath.

It’s easy to understand why a home needs at least one full- or three-quarter-sized bathroom. Since there’s no place to bathe, half baths may not seem necessary at first glance, but half baths are important to the function and value of your home.


Why Do You Need a Half Bath?

Also called powder rooms or parlor baths, half baths are primarily intended for guests. The half bath has gained popularity since the 1950s when the home’s only bathroom measured around 40 square feet, making it the smallest room in the house.


Today, the size and number of bathrooms in American homes have more than doubled. Homes are larger overall, but homeowners want to keep guests out of their most personal spaces. After all, most people prefer to keep the ointments, medications and tonics used in the bathroom away from visitors’ eyes.


That’s the role of the half bath. In fact, homeowners are often willing to pay more to get a home with a half bath. Adding a half bath can increase your home’s value by 10%. Where you live will determine exactly how much the sales price might increase.


Half Bathroom Design

Placement is important if you’re thinking about adding a half bath. A powder room should be easily accessible without letting guests too far into your inner sanctum. Most are located on the home’s main floor, near a main hallway or a communal space such as a kitchen or great room.

For a half bath, you’ll need between 18 and 21 square feet of space. Many homeowners find space underneath the staircase, carved out of an attached garage or within a utility room.

Other things to consider when building a half bath:


Save on renovation costs by locating the room near existing plumbing lines.

Code requires a window or exhaust vent in every bathroom, so don't overlook this requirement.

Electrical outlets need to be installed on a GFI circuit for extra protection in areas where water is frequently used.

Adding sound insulation will offer privacy for bathrooms located near the main living areas.

Making the Most of a Half Bath

Since your half bath is intended for guests, use it as a place to highlight your personal style. Find all the right elements for your half bath at Modern Bathroom. Opt for uniquely shaped vanities and solid-surface countertops. The perfect sink will accentuate your space, no matter the size. Wall-mounted sinks and pedestal sinks are great options for cozy rooms, while under-mount sinks or semi-recessed sinks are timeless trends. Add the finishing touch with the perfect faucet. We make it easy to create a half bath you’ll be proud to show off to your visitors!