In the last several years, there has been a shift in the typical family unit as we think of it.

Multiple generations sometimes live together now, whether it is an older parent who moves in or a returning grown child. Sometimes that returning grown child has a child of their own with them.

There is also a shift in sleeping habits as we age. Do you live with a loud snorer?  Does he/she wake up in the middle of the night and can’t return to sleep without turning on the TV?  Does that wake you up?  Many of my clients want their own bedrooms to sleep in so they can really sleep!

As they get older, many clients want their own bathrooms too! No more powder all over the floor or wet bath mats!

These shifts in scenarios have changed how we use our spaces in the home. In particular the bedroom is affected.

We think of the ideal master suite as a space that is generous, has storage for linens near the bathroom, has two separate closets-one for each person, sometimes a vanity area or dressing room. Sometimes there is a relaxation area for sitting and reading, exercise or a desk for work or household finances.  Lately, the master suite is more like a hotel suite with a refrigerator, coffee station and refreshment area, with television and music available.

People locate their laundry rooms nearby so they don’t have to far to go to return the clean clothes and linens to where they are used.

The ideal master bath usually has two sinks located perhaps in two separate vanities, maybe of different heights. Spa tubs are popular now for relaxation but if there isn’t enough room, a generous shower without a step over and even without doors are requested. Toilets used to have their own “room” within the space but that is starting to open up for better access.

How is it changing?

TWO master suites are now being planned in new homes, especially in the active adult market. The second master suite is sometimes referred to as the “snore room” but it helps prevent the disturbances that are so disruptive.

A second master suite can also be used as a guest suite, or a place to recover from injury or illness, or a caregiver’s space should it be needed in the future. This second space is often outfitted with a small kitchen and sometimes has a separate outside entry or hallway to the main part of the home.  This creates an independent space whether used for extended family or others.

As times and needs change so does the way we design our space for the best use possible.