From Functional to Fashionable—How Kitchens and Baths Have Changed Over Time

Originally designed as utilitarian spaces with a greater focus on function than on style, kitchens and bathrooms have evolved into spaces where homeowners can gather, relax, and unwind, says Housing Design Matters. While kitchens of decades past were built to accommodate hired cooks, today’s kitchens are at the heart of open living spaces and are thus designed for entertainment with central islands, comfortable seating, and eye-catching backsplashes.

The bathroom was traditionally a space that homeowners only used when necessary, but today’s primary, secondary, and ensuite bathrooms are packed with spa-like features to create an at-home oasis where homeowners can relax and recharge.

Super small, enclosed kitchens are a remodeler’s nightmare. Fortunately, houses of this era often had large formal spaces that could become part of the new open and expanded kitchen. Opening up the kitchen often requires load-bearing walls coming down and beams going up – but it is so worth the effort.

Bathrooms today have been elevated to oasis status. It is perhaps the second most important room in the house for its ability to relax and rejuvenate with spa-like features. Of course, you have to her dual vanities, private toilet room and awesome shower. Bathtubs are considered a treat but not at the expense of the size of the shower. Finish off the bathroom oasis with backlit mirrors, heated floors, and towel bars.

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