The evolution of the American bathroom in the 20th century.

Throughout the 20th century, American bathrooms have gone through significant changes in terms of design, layout, and functionality. Here are eight key developments that shaped the evolution of the American bathroom:

1. Indoor plumbing and sanitation: At the start of the century, indoor plumbing was still a luxury that few homes could afford. As access to water and sewage systems became more widespread, indoor bathrooms gradually replaced outdoor facilities.

2. Increased privacy: The concept of privacy became increasingly important in the design of American homes, and this was reflected in the bathroom. In the early 1900s, bathrooms were often shared by multiple households, but by mid-century, private bathrooms had become the norm.

3. Emphasis on hygiene and cleanliness: In the early 20th century, bathrooms were primarily functional spaces, but as time went on, they became associated with cleanliness and hygiene. This led to the adoption of new materials, such as white tile, which were seen as more sanitary.

4. Expansion of size and functionality: As the 20th century progressed, bathrooms grew in size and became more functional. Features such as separate shower stalls and built-in storage became more common.

5. Technological advancements: The mid-20th century saw the introduction of new bathroom technologies, such as automatic flushing toilets and temperature-controlled showers.

6. Changing aesthetics: The look of the American bathroom changed significantly over the course of the 20th century. In the early years, bathrooms were often decorated with ornate fixtures and finishes, while later decades saw a shift towards more minimalist designs.

7. Increased accessibility: The latter half of the century saw a greater emphasis on making bathrooms more accessible to people with disabilities, with features such as grab bars and walk-in tubs becoming more common.

8. Sustainability and water conservation: In recent years, there has been a growing focus on sustainability in bathroom design. Low-flow toilets and faucets, as well as water-saving showerheads, are just a few of the features that have become popular in modern bathrooms.

Overall, the evolution of the American bathroom over the 20th century reflects changing attitudes towards cleanliness, hygiene, privacy, and technological advancements, as well as a growing focus on accessibility and sustainability.