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Wet bathroom designs


16 stunning wet room bathroom designs |

(Image credit: Richstone Properties / Mandarin Stone / l Drummonds / Darren Chung)

Wet room ideas open up the opportunity for contemporary creative design, without the need to squeeze in a shower enclosure or raised shower tray.

A wet room can be a real luxury at home, even when the space you have to work with is limited. Try thinking along the lines of colorful floor-to-ceiling tiles, built-in seating and sleek, concealed pipework. 

A true wet room without any panels provides you with more room to move, and an open-layout is easier to keep clean than a regular shower. 

However, wet rooms are a big project to take on when it comes to bathroom ideas. The tanking process to ensure your room is completely watertight can be a significant upheaval, not to mention costly, too. 

You may want to weigh this up against the longevity of the space, as a wet room’s seamless design makes it a great option for accessibility and future-proofing your home for years to come.

Wet room ideas

Wet rooms have become an increasingly popular choice for shower-lovers because they are the perfect solution for small bathrooms when you don’t have the space for both a bath tub and a separate shower. 

The key difference between a shower and a wet room is the fact that while both may have shower screens, wet rooms are completely open spaces without the stand-in tray you will normally get in a shower. The floor is at one level and water is allowed to flow freely to a drain. 

A wet room can provide a spacious showering area and the high-end look of a luxurious spa hotel because the look tends to be very streamlined. Wet rooms  are also level entry, so easily accessible to all, not to mention hygienic and easy to clean. Done well, a wet room is incredibly desirable and can boost your home’s value, too. 

There are a number of things to consider when planning a wet room or walk-in shower – from suitable flooring to drainage points – so that you can achieve the best results.  

1.  Ensure the space you intend to use is fully tanked

(Image credit: Sarah Hogan)

It goes without saying that a wet room needs to be waterproof. Luckily builders are a lot savvier about how to achieve fully tanked spaces nowadays and wet room tanking systems and products are readily available. 

'In particular, hidden tray systems, which fit under the floor tiles and take care of drainage gradients and watertightness have proved a real game-changer,' says Nicholas Cunild, MD of luxury shower brand Matki . 'Low-level shower trays that fit flush with the tiles are also popular and can help define the shower room in a bigger room. Wet room installation is not for novices, it’s important to find a tanking specialist or builder with verifiable experience.'

2. Consider underfloor heating to keep the space dry

(Image credit: Mandarin Stone)

'It’s important to take extra steps with regards to heat, ventilation and drying than you would in a regular bathroom,' continues Nicholas Cunild. 'You may be lucky enough to live in a hot climate which naturally gives a warmer bathroom. But if you live in a colder climate and you exit a wet room onto carpeted rooms – add kids, dogs and all the rest –  it is a recipe for waterlogged, messy floors everywhere. 

'A screen will help contain major puddles, but underfloor heating and heated towel rails will also speed up the drying process and help prevent slip hazards. Mechanical ventilation is a must and will help clear steam quickly – look for models with intelligent humidity sensors that automatically boost when required.' You can also pair this with a beautiful, easy-to-wash bathroom rug idea.

3. Consider different surfaces ideas, not just tiles

(Image credit: Base Interior)

Tiling from floor-to-ceiling is practical but can feel cold and uninviting in large volumes. Nicholas points out the importance of exploiting other options. 

'We’ve noted a rise in polished plaster – both traditional Tadelakt and more modern Microcement – in wet room designs and the results are stunning,' he says.  

Built up in layers, the finish is waterproof and seamless, so there’s no grubby grout to tackle. 

4. Pick the right sanitaryware 

(Image credit: Future / Mark Bolton )

'If you are embracing the full wet room in a large bathroom look and omitting any sort of enclosure or screen, it is fundamental to think about your choice of sanitaryware, as it is likely that it will get wet from the spray of the shower or the condensation in the room,' advises Rebecca Milnes, designer at CP Hart . 

'Opt for ceramics that are flush to the wall and are ideally wall-mounted. A wall-hung toilet is a brilliant choice in a wet room, as there are no areas for water to pool and it makes cleaning easier.'

Though a bathroom that has been tanked doesn’t necessarily need a shower panel, you may want to add one to prevent towels or toilet rolls getting wet. Opt for a fluted or frosted finish to maintain a level of privacy if your wet room forms part of the main bathroom.

'In order to create a true wet room, a watertight environment must be created by tanking both the floor and walls of the room to thoroughly protect it from leaks. First a watertight membrane is laid, then the room will need to be tiled throughout with a gentle gradient in the main a shower area so the water flows away easily into the waste.'

5.  Choose the right size sanitaryware to enhance the sense of space

(Image credit: Matki)

It’s important to choose sanitaryware that is slightly smaller than the average in size so that it can make the room look bigger. A  wall-hung toilet with a concealed cistern, is not just easier to keep clean, but being able to see the floor gives the illusion of a bigger room. Wall-hung bathroom vanity ideas will also help reduce visual clutter and use the bathroom space more effectively. 

6. Play with the illusion of space

(Image credit: Future / Jonathan Gooch)

Using matching tiles or composite panels on both floors and walls is a good idea for wet rooms and small bathrooms as it will accentuate the sense of space.  

Create areas of bathroom color, and even patterns using mosaics or tiles in a variety of formats, to give definition to your shower space, or mix shapes, sizes and shades for a unique look.

'Add glossy finishes and sleek chrome fittings and use matching shower tile ideas or composite panels on both floors and walls to accentuate the sense of space. Create areas of color and even patterns using mosaics or tiles in a variety of formats to give definition to your shower space, or mix shapes, sizes and shades for a unique look.'

Make sure the floor tiles you want have an appropriate non-slip bathroom flooring rating for wet areas – look out for raised, textured finishes or anti-slip properties in your search.

'Good-quality porcelain tiles are perfect for use in wet rooms and walk-in showers,' says Jo Oliver, Director at Stone & Ceramic Warehouse . 'Firstly, they are impervious to water, making them an ideal solution for everyday use. They also won’t be damaged by detergents or any of the other chemicals we frequently expose our shower surfaces to. '

(Image credit: Max Kim Bee)

While it’s easiest to install a small wet room in a new-build or extension, any bathroom, upstairs or down, can be fully tanked for wet room use. 

There are certain situations where a wet room comes into its own. 'Wet rooms are particularly effective in small or awkward scenarios, like rooms with sloped ceilings or strange layouts, as you can maximize the showering area without the restrictions of standard shower tray sizes,' says Nicholas Cunild. 

Issues like the direction of floor joists can be problematic but not insurmountable. 'In some cases, you may need to accept a step up into the room, in order to achieve the necessary gradients for efficient water drainage. If it’s done by a good professional, it will be unnoticeable.'

8. Fake a wet room 

(Image credit: Future / Darren Chung)

If you are not able to create a true wet room, the latest ultra-low profile shower trays are a clever alternative.

A frameless shower enclosure will give any bathroom a modern, seamless feel and create a contained area for showering without the need for a separate cubicle.  

Paired with a low-profile shower tray, these walk-in shower ideas with frameless, clear glass panels help to make even the smallest of spaces feel less claustrophobic and therefore a more calming showering experience.

Don’t forget to allow for adequate drainage at the planning stage. Your shower floor ideas may need to be fitted at a sloped angle away from any doors so water can drain away easily. A sunken shower tray that can be installed flush to the rest of the floor.

9. Bring in pattern to help zone the shower area

(Image credit: Bert & May/ Fired Earth)

Many wet room designs lean towards a minimalist look but it can also be a great opportunity to introduce color and pattern into the space. 

Even in an open plan space you can use a showstopping tile on the shower walls and floor to zone the shower area. If you are feeling even braver you can contrast the tiles you use on the floor and walls for even more impact. 

10. Find the right tile

(Image credit: Future / Artisan of Devizes)

Bright and colorful wet rooms make for an invigorating shower experience. Ideal if you're not naturally a morning person. Smaller bathroom tile ideas like mosaics are a great choice for wet rooms, as they’re easy to lay in a slope towards the drainage hole. 

Alternatively, a mix of metro and patterned tiles create a cool and contemporary appearance.

Maintain a seamless look by incorporating a recessed shelf within the shower – a great shower storage idea to keep essential bottles without encroaching on the rest of the space.

11. Enhance the floor factor

(Image credit: Future / Jonathan Gooch)

Shower floor ideas are one of the most important factors when planning and developing a wet room. 

Most bathroom flooring types can accommodate the pipes needed for drainage in a wet room – even concrete. But in some instances, the flooring will need to be taken up before tiling takes place to ensure the drainage pipes can be positioned with the necessary slope for the water to drain away.

Tiles are the best type of flooring for a wet room. Damla Turgut, founder of Otto Tiles & Design , advises: 'The most suitable types of tiles for a wet room floor are porcelain or natural stone such as marble, terrazzo, encaustic cement or mosaic tiles. Because of their construction and high-shine finish, we would not recommend the use of ceramic tiles on a wet room floor, they are however suitable for wet room walls as are the very on-trend zellige tiles.'

12. Turn a loft space into a wet room

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

There are so many advantage to having a wet room. 

You can create a more impressive shower room design in an average-sized bathroom simply by removing the bath and freeing up the space needed for a walk-in shower. For instance, if you have a loft space, consider installing a wet room here.

You probably will need a special extractor fan in your wet room. The build-up of moisture and condensation is greater in a wet room than in a traditional bathroom. Fans operated by light switches alone often aren’t effective enough. A good fan needs to be wired into the room (still coming on with the light switch) but with a separate cut-off switch, which is outside the room. Humidity-tracking extractor fans are best for wet rooms as they work continuously and incrementally with automatic extraction for however much steam is in the room.

13. Create a spa-like sanctuary

(Image credit: Future / Mark Luscombe-Whyte)

Real estate agents are quick to point out that a family home without a bath will be less saleable, but there are creative wet room ideas with baths you can explore. 

If space allows, the bathroom can be turned into a spa-like sanctuary with a bath, vanity unit and smaller wet room-style cubicle. 

'Wet rooms give an added level of luxury, allowing a continuous floor finish making a space feel seamless and bigger,' says Gemma Holsgrove, Associate Director at interior design agency Sims Hilditch . 'With cleverly positioned fittings it can certainly feel well thought through. '

A wet room design can also work alongside a bath, as Sally Cutchie of BC Designs explains. 'Choosing to have a wet room can actually be hugely beneficial when wanting a bath to sit in the same space,' she says.

'As a wet room is fully waterproof it doesn’t need a shower enclosure fitting,' she adds. 'This can free up a lot of extra space for the all-important bath.'

If your bathroom is on the small side, then use the same material to clad your whole space. A strong stone, like marble, is a stylish option.

14. Take a seat

(Image credit: Fameed Khalique)

Add built-in seating to your wet room for a sauna-like experience. Complete the look with a large rainfall showerhead, then simply sit back and relax.

A wood look can offer a holistic spa bathroom experience, but you'll need to ensure any timber is treated so that it's suitable for a wet area. Or you can mimic the look with tiles. Just make sure they have a non-slip treatment and are comfortable to sit on.

15. Let the light in

(Image credit: Future / Jonathan Gooch)

If you are creating a new space for your wet room, you will need to think about light sources during planning. A huge skylight like this creates the illusion of showering outdoors. So if you've been inspired by trips to tropical climes such as Bali or Thailand, this could be a practical way to recreate that magic.

The best bathroom lighting ideas feature at least two lighting circuits – one for overhead lighting and another for adjustable mood and task lighting. Where you place these will depend on any natural light sources, too.

16. Install a space to rest and recharge

(Image credit: Future / Mark Bolton)

When considering how to choose a shower for your wet room, Paul Bailey, Senior Category Manager at GROHE , says: 'Features such as steam, sound and chromotherapy through built-in lighting modules are increasing in popularity, due to growing demand for spa and wellness inspired bathroom spaces. '

Wet rooms are considered a practical and luxurious addition to a home. However, they can be costly. Nick Cryer of Berkeley Place says: 'Wet room installations are more specialist, more time consuming and more expensive. All the materials and kit is very readily available, however, we recommend only experts are employed to complete the installation.'

Are wet rooms a good idea? 

There are lots of benefits to having a wet room – from being able to utilise a small or awkward space where a bath or standard shower enclosure cannot fit, to future-proofing your home.

Estate agents are quick to point out that a family home without a bath will be less saleable. But there are creative options you can explore. For instance, if you have a large master bedroom, consider installing a freestanding, statement tub here for a dash of hotel chic.

'Investing time and money into creating a wet room and properly tanking it can also be incredibly useful when it comes to busy family bath times,' says Paul Bailey, Senior Category Manager at GROHE UK.

The main drawback is the investment and upheaval a wet room project brings, mainly due to the fact that all wet room ideas require proper tanking. 

'One other point worth noting is that wet rooms can get quite cold, because there’s no enclosure to keep the steam in,' adds Yousef Mansuri, head of design at C.P. Hart.

How small can a wet room be?

While wet rooms are not limited to incremental sizing, most bathroom designers would recommend that the showering section of a wet room measures a minimum 800 x 800mm. 

When planning a shower design for a small bathroom, there are a few aspects which may determine the space required. Will pipework be exposed or concealed? Do you need to install a glass panel to prevent other areas of the room from getting wet?

Don’t forget that adequate ventilation must also be installed in line with building regulations to prevent mould and damp spots.

Get the right layout for a wet room

There's no denying that plumbing can limit the layout of a wet room. Basins, baths and showers only have to take away water but, if placed 12ft from an outside wall, the drainage will have to slope gently downwards for quite a long way, avoiding joists, which may not be running in a helpful direction. The sooner an architect or plumber raises a few floorboards, the sooner you’ll know your options.

'In a wet room, the shower area is flush with the floor level and the drain is fitted into the fully tiled floor. Originally wet rooms were completely open without any glass partition. However, a simple fixed glass panel creating a walk-in shower area is a much more practical choice and has become the most popular trend,' advises Rebecca Milnes, designer at CP Hart .

'Wet room systems are not limited to incremental sizing, like shower trays often are, so they are a great solution for awkward or tight spaces. 

'In small rooms it is possible to turn the whole area into a walk-in shower. However, it is best to be mindful of the items in the bathroom that need to be kept dry, such as towels and toilet rolls.

'One of the first things to consider when planning a wet room is where to position the drain. Ideally the drain should be as far away from the bathroom door as possible, to minimise any risk of water escaping the room. 

'If you have a wooden sub-floor, the way your joists run is crucial to where your drain can be positioned. You’ll also need to think about which way the gradient fall towards the waste will run, to avoid any tricky wedging effects.'

What's the difference between a wet room and a walk-in shower?

‘A true wet room is a fully waterproofed space without a fixed shower door or tray, and usually has an open tiled shower area,’ explains Nicholas Cunild, managing director of Matki.

A walk-in shower, on the other hand, is an area in a bathroom or shower room with a low-level shower tray and glass surrounds. While completely watertight, you may still wish to include a glass panel in a wet room to contain the water spray.

Is a wet room expensive?

There’s no doubt that a wet room is an investment. The tanking process to ensure the room is completely waterproof can be costly and takes time. All wet room ideas involve tiling the space from floor to ceiling carefully while ensuring proper drainage. 

Concealing pipework can also be an investment, though this can often allow recessed shelving and storage to be created as an additional benefit.

You can find out how much it costs to install a wet room in our guide.

What kind of costs are involved in a wet room?

It is never cheap to re-do a bathroom. In a family bathroom with two basins, a WC, a bath and a shower, quality items will easily add up to £5,000. 

Installation adds a further £3,000 or so and, with cabinets and storage, good quality mirrors, tiles and lighting, it generally adds up to between £10,000 and £15,000.

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

The build-up of moisture and condensation is greater in a wet room than in a traditional bathroom. Fans operated by light switches alone often aren’t effective enough.  

A good fan needs to be wired into the room (still coming on with the light switch) but with a separate cut-off switch, which is outside the room. Humidity-tracking extractor fans are best for wet rooms as they work continuously and incrementally, with automatic extraction for how much steam is in the room.

Pick the right wet room flooring

'When deciding which wet room system to go for, think about what your sub-floor is made of. There are systems for both solid and wooden floors. If you have a concrete floor, it can be quite invasive to channel in a waste and create the gradient fall required for drainage,' advises Rebecca Milnes of CP Hart.

'Forgoing a shower tray in favour of a wet room allows the floor tiles to run through to the shower area, which adds visual space to a room. However, not all surfaces are safe to use in a wet room setting and it is crucial to know what the slip rating of the material is. I’d recommend using a material with a structured, textured finish to give extra grip in wet areas. Mosaics are also a great choice for wet areas, as the grout lines between the tiles give appropriate grip.

'In cases where a step-up to the wet area is needed, the step should be at least 10cm high, as anything lower can be easily overlooked by those not familiar with the room and can become a trip hazard. Adding under-plinth lighting can highlight the step and add ambiance to the room.'

Tanking a wet room

'Tanking is essential in a wet room,' says Rebecca Milnes. 'This is a multi-step process which entails several layers of waterproofing to ensure an excellent seal – much like a swimming pool. 

'The two main approaches for tanking a wet room are using a self-adhesive bitumen-based waterproof membrane, or applying a paint-on liquid wall membrane. It is always best to speak to your supplier about the best system for your project.'

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.

13 wet room ideas and tricks for a minimalist bathroom |

(Image credit: Darren Chung)

For many years, wet room ideas were a divisive choice for a bathroom renovation. While they were favored for the idea that they could make your space look bigger, and that they work well for small spaces, the major drawback was the idea that when you shower, the whole bathroom gets wet. 

Originally, wet rooms were completely open without any glass partition, however, a simple fixed glass panel creating a walk-in shower area is a much more practical choice and the general trend for wet rooms has evolved to include some sort of shower screen.  

Now, in terms of modern bathroom ideas, wet rooms are certainly up there with the most popular. While the process of installing a wet room might be more disruptive and expensive than a standard bathroom re-fit, by tanking the envelope of your bathroom, you can streamline your floor tile finishes and create level-access showers which are more practical. 

All-in-all, this means a more minimalist, modern bathroom, but the design possibilities don't end there. From types of floor and wall finishes to screens and alternative bathroom layouts, take a look at our gallery of the very best in wet room ideas to inspire your space. 

Wet room ideas 

Wet rooms are ideal as small bathroom ideas or awkward spaces such as below sloping ceilings or in rooms with height restrictions. They’re a job best left to the professionals to ensure adequate drainage, tanking, and slip resistance. If you love the spacious look of a wet room, creating a wet room-style showering area is much easier thanks to the variety of off-the-shelf low-profile shower trays, recessed storage niches, and frameless glass shower screens and hinged doorways now on offer.

Bespoke trays and screens offer the option of creating a generously sized shower room – perhaps for two – where you can take advantage of the latest shower systems that transform washing into a wellbeing experience, with their wall-mounted body jets and rainfall showerheads incorporating steam, aromatherapy, and chromotherapy features.

(Image credit: Future)

There are some practicalities to consider as part of your wet room design too. One of the first things to consider when planning a wet room is where to position the drain. Ideally, the drain should be as far away from the bathroom door as possible, to minimize any risk of water escaping the room. If you have a wooden sub-floor, the way your joists run is crucial to where your drain can be positioned. A gentle slope or gradient in the main shower area will help ensure that water flows away easily into the waste.

In a wet room, the shower area is flush with the floor level and the drain is fitted into the fully tiled floor.  

1. Use tadelakt for an on-trend wet room 

(Image credit: Darren Chung)

Tadelakt, a traditional Moroccan polished plaster has become a bathroom trend for wet rooms thanks to its good looks and practical nature. 'Homeowners are creating design-led wet rooms without grout lines that can collect dirt and grime,' explains Ian Kozlowski, founder of Decor Tadelakt , 'but it's also an eco-friendly, unique wall covering, offering minimalist beauty and texture.' 

Polished with olive soap for a waterproof finish, tadelakt can be used across all the walls in a wet room for a seamless finish, however, it's not really suitable for flooring, and should be combined with tiles or another bathroom flooring idea. 

(Image credit: James Merrell)

When it comes to choosing bathroom tile ideas, mosaic tiles have a lot to offer. They are not only easy to apply, and can be worked well around a shower drain without awkward cuts and fussy detailing, but they can also be used to create bold designs like this two-tone stripe wet room, which runs into the shower area.  

Mosaic tiles are also great underfoot, with extra grout lines creating a non-slip surface. However, be wary that all this extra grout isn't always a practical choice when it comes to keeping your wet room clean and looking its best. 

3. Or choose large format tiles for a practical wet room 

(Image credit: Anna Stathaki)

If you ask Roisin Lafferty, creative director of Kingston Lafferty Design , she'll warn you against using excesses of small tiles in wet rooms.  'I am an absolute lover of detailed and intricate tiling, however not for a wet room – where it’s a case of the less grout the better for longevity and cleanliness,' she says. 

'Large-format marble is timeless and very practical, just make sure you have a slip rating if required. Large-format terrazzo or tiles give a similar streamlined effect. And for the highest-end finish, opt for a seamless full-height glass screen with minimal framing or fittings.'

When using large format tiles for a walk-in shower, you need to make sure you specify anti-slip tiles on the floor, especially for shower tile flooring ideas where there's the greatest chance of slipping on wet flooring.  

4. Pick a folding shower screen for a small wet room 

(Image credit: BC Designs )

Wet rooms have a great advantage in a small bathroom layout in that they don't require bulky shower trays or enclosures, meaning that it's possible to squeeze a shower into a tight corner, often next to a bath. 

'When it comes to showers, a separate shower can often be considered a luxury if space is tight. However, there are a couple of clever ways around it including wet rooms and folding shower screens that take up much less room than a typical shower,' says Barrie Cutchie, design director at BC Designs.  

In this small bathroom shower idea, a fixed screen would have made access to the shower and the bath difficult and cramped, while the folding shower screen still helps to keep water in one area of the wet room. 

(Image credit: Drummonds)

Reeded glass isn't just a huge interior design trend, it's a no-brainer for a beautiful wet room. Not only does the texture of this glass add to a richer scheme, but it can also be used to create pockets of privacy in a wet room, whether it's being used by more than one person at once, or shielding a shower from the view of a window. There are plenty of shower screens on the market featuring reeded glass too, while enclosures using this type of glass are harder to come by. 

Reeded glass is also a little more forgiving than standard glass when it comes to watermarks and limescale, making it a practical choice too. 

6. Opt for a modern Crittall-style shower screen 

(Image credit: Day True)

Just as steel-framed dividers and doors are much-loved elsewhere in our homes, Crittall-style shower screens are a popular choice for bathrooms and wet rooms for a luxe addition to the space. 

In this design by Day True , the wet room also positions the shower underneath a large roof light, bathing the space with natural light while retaining its sense of privacy. 

7. Or go for a minimalist shower screen 

(Image credit: Brian O'Tuama Architects)

While you may be tempted by these feature shower screens, sometimes the best option for a wet room is the simplest. As you have the design possibility to use one tile for flooring throughout a wet room, and with no trays or enclosures to carve up the space, a minimalist shower screen, like this used in this project from Brian O'Tuama Architects , which highlights the seamless nature of the space.  

Consider slimline frames and concealed fixings, as seen in this brass and marble bathroom idea, reducing visual noise for a picture-perfect wet room 

(Image credit: Mandarin Stone)

The beauty of a wet room is that you don't have to have a screen at all if you don't want to. However, practically when using the space, and for those using it after you, it can help to consider where water will sit in the space. In an ideal world, you'll want water and spray to not reach areas like the basin, where you might want to later stand with dry feet. 

'If you are embracing the full wet room look and omitting any sort of enclosure or screen, it is fundamental to think about your choice of sanitaryware, as it is likely that it will get wet from the spray of the shower or the condensation in the room,' says C.P. Hart 's Rebecca Milnes. 'Opt for ceramics that are flush to the wall and are ideally wall-mounted. A wall-hung toilet is a brilliant choice in a wet room, as there are no areas for water to pool and makes cleaning easier. '

(Image credit: Darren Chung)

As wet room ideas don't have to have fixed shower enclosure sizes, you can use this as an opportunity to install a double shower set-up. Do you need or will you use two showers in the same space? Only you can answer that, but for a luxury bathroom idea, they can't be beaten. 

This bathroom design, which includes a BC Designs bathtub, incorporates a micro cement shower floor running throughout the wet room, adding an industrial contrast to the marble and luxury fittings used. 

10. Create an enclosure for a partial wet room

(Image credit: Matthew Williams)

To get the best of both worlds of a wet room, it's possible to divide your bathroom into wet and dry zones. This is usually done by combining the bath and shower into a wet room set-up, separated by an enclosure, but properly tanked in the way a wet room should be. 

This leaves your basin and WC out of the wet zone, making it easier to use these spaces after someone has showered without entering into a wet, humid space.  

11. Create a broken-plan wet room 

(Image credit: McCrum Studio)

This wet room set-up by interior designer Katie McCrum of McCrum Studio is another way you could look to divide up a bathroom for a more contained wet zone. This broken-plan enclosure means that the wall intersecting the bathroom could be used for this clever bathroom mirror idea, freeing up space in the bathroom, while the showers and bath sit beyond in a dedicated wet zone. 

(Image credit: Anna Stathaki c/o BC Designs/C.P. Hart)

Wet rooms are well-loved for their walk-in shower designs, but how about a walk-through shower? In a design such as this, from C.P. Hart, a walk-through wet room set-up allows for an unusual freestanding bath idea, laid out with the tub in the center of the room, meaning the shower can be used from either side without disturbing the flow of the room. 

While walk-through showers may take up extra space for both an entry and exit to the showering area, they have a luxurious feel about them that makes them well-suited to high-end bathrooms.  

13. Try this clever idea to protect wet room windows 

(Image credit: West One Bathrooms)

While this wet room from West One Bathrooms might be small, it's perfectly formed. Not only does this Crittall-style shower screen and hexagonal tile create a modern look, but the designers have come up with a clever way to be able to position the shower next to the window, without exposing it to water spray and excess moisture. 

A hinged screen over the window not only protects it from the shower, but provides privacy when using the shower without sacrificing natural light. Plus, it can still be opened, like a traditional window treatment to enjoy the view. 

What do you need to have a wet room?

To create a wet room, you'll need to create a watertight environment, for example by tanking both the floor and walls of the room to protect it from any leaks. Once a watertight membrane is laid, the room can then be tiled.

When deciding which wet room system to go for, think about what your sub-floor is made of. There are systems for both solid and wooden floors. If you have a concrete floor, it can be quite invasive to channel in a waste and create the gradient fall required for drainage.

Forgoing a shower tray in favor of a wet room allows the floor tiles to run through to the shower area, which adds visual space to a room. However, not all surfaces are safe to use in a wet room setting and it is crucial to know what the slip rating of the material is. C.P Hart's Rebecca Milnes recommends using a material with a structured, textured finish to give extra grip in wet areas. 

Tanking is also essential in a wet room. This is a multi-step process that entails several layers of waterproofing to ensure an excellent seal – much like a swimming pool. The two main approaches for tanking a wet room are using a self-adhesive bitumen-based waterproof membrane or applying a paint-on liquid wall membrane. It is always best to speak to your supplier about the best system for your project.

Hugh is the Deputy Editor of Livingetc. com. From working on a number of home, design and property publications and websites, including Grand Designs, ICON and specialist kitchen and bathroom magazines, Hugh has developed a passion for modern architecture, impactful interiors and green homes. Whether moonlighting as an interior decorator for private clients or renovating the Victorian terrace in Essex where he lives (DIYing as much of the work as possible), you’ll find that Hugh has an overarching fondness for luxurious minimalism, abstract shapes and all things beige. He’s just finished a kitchen and garden renovation, and has eyes set on a bathroom makeover for 2022.  

Design project of a bathroom with a shower enclosure - examples, photos

A shower enclosure is a practical alternative to a bathtub. In private homes, both items are installed. In small apartments, a shower is often preferred, and sometimes it is combined with a bathroom in one model.

How to think over the design project of the room so that it is as comfortable as possible and how justified the use of a shower enclosure.

Bathroom layout

Every detail needs to be thought through before renovation. If you miss the design of the electrical wiring paths in the bathroom, do not take into account the dimensions of the plumbing, or forget about waterproofing, then such mistakes will cost dearly later. At the very least, you will be uncomfortable in such a room. The situation is worse if you flood the neighbors. nine0003

Therefore, you should not quickly run after your favorite shower cabin and ceramic tiles, but develop a design project.

Think about the layout first. Measure the dimensions of the existing room. Think about whether you will demolish or rearrange partitions, or install new walls. Remember that depending on the type of finish, the thickness of the walls will change, and therefore the size of the room.

Think about where to place the plumbing. If you want to put a shower enclosure, remember that the most convenient size of the area with a cabin is 90 * 90 cm. In very small rooms, you can put a shower 75 * 75 cm. A smaller cubicle will be inconvenient.

In the project, consider such details as the place for opening the door, the distance from the wet area to the towels and other parameters. To make the bathroom as comfortable as possible, study the rules of ergonomics in interior design.

Types of showers

There are several types of showers. The choice depends on the budget, the dimensions of the room and how much time you spend daily in the bathroom. nine0003

The most economical option is to buy the tray and baffle separately. But the project will look quite simple and the savings are very small.

Cabin

As a rule, a cabin is understood as a model of a shower enclosure with a roof - closed versions. By design, they are divided into angular and rectangular.

Pay attention to the pallet material. Acrylic is considered the most reliable and optimal in terms of price and quality. In second place are ceramic and enamelled steel. Don't take plastic. It is very short-lived and quickly begins to sag. nine0003

The height of the tray in the shower enclosure varies from 4 to 45 cm. If there is a small child in the house, deep models will be a great alternative to a bathtub.

Shower enclosure can be equipped with options: radio, massage accessories, LED lighting and others. As a rule, these are additional options that add cost.

Due to the fact that the corner is closed, mold quickly forms in the cab and the doors must be kept open.

Shower enclosures are rarely stylish by design, and it takes a lot of effort to find a truly beautiful option. nine0003

Bath combined with corner

An option for those who do not want to give up relaxing bath treatments. You can install a glass (static or folding) curtain. An alternative is sliding doors on rails.

If you want a beautiful room design, you have to be careful with this option. Consider the design of the bathroom and find harmonious partitions.

Shower Enclosure

Roofless open structure, the most common in contemporary interior design world. You can make an air version when a pallet is not installed, and a glass partition separates the zone. nine0003

In the design of a bathroom with a shower enclosure without a tray, waterproofing and drainage are especially well thought out. In a wet area, the floor should be sloped so that water does not escape outside the shower.

In each case, pay attention to the material and color of the walls. Cheap plastic has an advantage only in price. It is difficult to care for him, he quickly scratches and becomes cloudy. But if you settled on plastic doors, install more fasteners than the manufacturer recommends. Due to the lightness, play will quickly go. More reliable glass partitions and doors. nine0003

When installing, pay attention to the interface between the partition wall and the wall. Do not allow gaps, lay silicone, otherwise the mold will not take long to wait.

Hydrobox

The most expensive option is to install a hydrobox. This is a corner with many functions for a variety of procedures. The filling may be different. Often boxes are taken because of the combination of spa, sauna and massage accessories.

An important advantage is that the model is completely isolated. Therefore, the humidity in the room is much less and it is possible to install wooden furniture and use a non-moisture resistant finish. nine0003

The hydro box is unlikely to fit in a small bathroom project. But if the area of ​​​​the room is from 6 sq. meters, it is worth considering the choice.

Advantages of a shower enclosure over a bathtub

Selecting a faucet

Consider in your design project which faucet you want to install. It is convenient to use thermostatic models that smooth out unpleasant impressions from unexpected changes in water temperature.

Another practical option is to install a rain shower in addition to the standard showerhead.

Bathroom trim with corner

Floor

If the shower enclosure is installed without a drip tray, remove the covering down to the concrete slab. Then fill the base with several layers of waterproofing. Mount the drain in the new base. The farther the plumbing is from the sewer riser, the higher the drain should be. nine0003

Tiles with a non-slip surface are laid in the wet area. Mosaic is more often chosen.

In terms of design, floor patterns can visually detract from the walls if the idea of ​​the project so requires. When you need to visually enlarge a room in width or length, stripes are chosen.

If several types of tiles are used in a room, joints should be made only at the transition point from one zone to another. Then you can achieve a neat look.

Walls

The classic wall and floor design is ceramic tiles. For a bathroom with a shower corner, choose non-slip ceramic tiles that are moisture resistant (see the manufacturer for the parameters). nine0003

Budget version of the project - paneling. The modern market offers a variety of options, including those with a long service life. The advantages of panels over ceramics are that everyone can lay this material on their own when a master is needed to lay the tiles. The disadvantage of plastic is that it is not an environmentally friendly material and it looks simpler.

Embossed panels look beautiful and unusual, but they are difficult to clean, they are rarely seen in bathroom design.

Ceramic and plastic tiles are installed in the corner area. The rest of the room can be decorated with other materials:

Even in a small room, one of the walls can be accented. Highlight the area with a color that is radically different from the main one, a difference in texture or material. nine0003

Ceiling

The material for the flow to the bathroom can be any. It is important that the finish also meets the requirements of moisture resistance. Often, a stretch ceiling, plastic or metal panels, and paint are included in the shower design project.

A selection of fixtures for a bathroom with a shower enclosure

In the design of the bathroom, fixtures with a high degree of moisture protection are used. This indicator can always be seen on the packaging of the lamp: it is designated as IP. Wet area requires models with an IP of at least 65.

Luminaires located 60-80 cm around a damp source can be IP44.

If the lamps are installed under water (bath, pool lighting, etc.), the degree of moisture protection should be equal to 68. one common bright light source, as well as separately illuminated shower enclosure, mirror, area above the toilet.Sconces on the walls will add coziness.0003

Furniture

Selection of furniture is best done after arranging plumbing in the project. A variety of models will allow you to choose interior items of the appropriate size. Remember about ergonomics and don't try to cram the maximum. Storage systems need to be considered first. And put pouffes, stools, countertops under the sink only if there is space.

Pay attention to materials. Not worth saving. Choose moisture-resistant items, otherwise you will have to update the situation after a couple of years after operation. To make the interior design look whole, buy kits or make furniture to order. Otherwise, the bathroom will turn into the interior of a cheap store. nine0003

Decor

Niches will become an additional decoration in the bathroom. This is a practical decor that can be used as shelves. The main thing is not to leave anything superfluous. But beautiful bottles of soap and shampoo will look very handy.

In a small room, any elements become decor, so you should carefully consider the choice of a heated towel rail, coat hooks, laundry baskets. Each accessory becomes a decoration in itself. All details must be combined with each other, only then you get a harmonious interior. nine0003

The main role in decoration is given to the mirror. A practical option would be a closed shelf with a mirrored door, behind which small items and hygiene products are stored. If you do not need additional storage space, you can choose a mirror with a frame that matches the design of the bathroom.

Rugs and colored towels make the interior cozy. Since they are constantly in sight, when choosing textiles, remember the color scheme of the room every time.

Bathroom color with shower enclosure

A common tip is to choose light colors for small spaces. You can choose white or gray as the main one, but so that the interior does not look boring, add deep aquamarine, terracotta or emerald green. These are natural shades, very appropriate in the design of the bathroom. The main thing is not to overdo it: bright colors in a small space can quickly get bored.

Contrasting black and white interiors look interesting. Paired with intimate spotlights, black is great.

If you want to add a marine theme to your project - shells, fish and similar symbols, be careful. The abundance of such patterns will turn the design into tasteless. It is much more profitable to make a monophonic design and put 2-3 large sea shells in niches. nine0003

Choice of style for bathroom with shower enclosure

Style is a personal choice. But you need to remember that the classics are unlikely to look good on 3 square meters. meters. A small room should be primarily functional, which means that minimalism and Scandinavian style will look good in a small bathroom - directions aimed at maximum comfort with a minimum of items.

If you want a creative project, you can choose ethno, high-tech, fusion.

Classic design with bulky furniture and a clawfoot bathtub looks great in large private bathrooms. In this case, it is better to choose a shower enclosure without a tray with an inconspicuous glass partition. This option is also beneficial for small bathtubs, as the size of such a shower can easily be varied. nine0003

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Design of a bathroom with a toilet: 70 modern ideas in photo

Successful solutions from Russian and Western pros.

Publication date: 11/11/2019

Material prepared: Vera Rogatko

We have collected up-to-date techniques in planning, zoning and design of a bathroom with a toilet. Read on to learn how to implement them, what to keep in mind while doing so, and how to avoid common mistakes. nine0185

Photo: freepik


Show your designer: a selection of cool tricks in the decor and layout of a bathroom combined with a toilet + photo when you don't want to choose between two solutions.


Design: Anton Bazaliyskiy, Elena Bazaliyskaya


Shower/bath with washbasin in bedroom + separate WC

This beautiful hotel reception is full of options. For example, you can put a free-standing bath in the bedroom or build it into a podium, consider a glass partition with a curtain, as in the photo, or make a window between the bathroom and bedroom areas - also with a curtain. This technique is easy to implement in country houses and apartments.


Design: Bureau Yudin & Novikov


WC and bidet in a niche or a separate semi-room

To separate the toilet and bidet, this technique is one of the most successful.

Design: Anna Sakharova



The solution can be completed with a translucent dark glass door.

Design: Cheyne Terrace


Design: Maria Makhonina

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Design: Konstantin Novikov, Daria Egorova, Alexander Krivonosov


If the space is small, a simple wall-to-wall or half-height partition wall is an alternative.

Toilet in the shower area

For this trick, it is important to isolate the wet area with a shower enclosure - this will help save toilet paper and leave a dry towel near the toilet if a hygienic shower is provided for it.

Design: Alexandra Fedorova, Sergey Kalyuta, Irina Gubskaya


If the shower area is small and there is nowhere else to place the toilet, designers separate the toilet from the shower only partially, with a glass partition or a fabric curtain.

Design: Andrey Barinov


Double washbasins

The aesthetics are clear: a pair of identical washbasins will make the interior spectacular and visually more expensive. From the point of view of convenience, the bonuses are more significant: each of the spouses will have their own washbasin, cabinet and rug, and personal space in a couple is priceless. nine0003

Design: Anton Petrov (Unique Home)


Design: Nadezhda Dvoretskaya, Anna Novikova


Design: Victoria Baranovskaya


Tiles, stone, plaster - for wet areas, paint, wallpaper - for dry areas this with the help of different types of finishes is one of the most common ways.

It can be implemented in many different ways, from standard projects with white square tiles combined with bright paint to complex combinations with several types of wallpaper and mosaics. nine0003

Dark shades

Reception works great in contrast with white sanitary ware. For special expressiveness, you can paint the ceiling to match the walls or combine several textures in one shade (for example, glossy with matte).

Design: Geometrix Design


Large-scale tile panel

Will help visually unite different areas. And it is better to contemplate large drawings on the walls at a short distance from them. nine0003

Design: Ivan Kachalov, Igor Metelkin


Bright wall

A variety of optical tricks can be performed with color: “zoom in” a long wall, equalize proportions, focus on interesting design techniques, distract from planning flaws.


Design: Andrey Belimov-Gushchin


Washbasin accent light

The accent light is traditionally placed in the mirror and washbasin area. This can be a symmetrical suspension or lighting along the contour of the mirror, if the bathroom is decorated in modern styles, and a pair of sconces or an elegant chandelier, if in classic ones. nine0003

Design: Alexandra Helminskaya-Leontieva


Design: Konstantin Novikov, Daria Egorova, Alexander Krivonosov


Design: Aiya Design



To differentiate other areas with light, you can use the height differences of the ceiling, organizing the light dimmed above the toilet and bidet, and more concentrated - in the shower and above the bath. nine0003

Design: Galina Mikulik


Accent light for a bathtub or shower room

A chandelier above the bath looks luxurious, but for this technique it is important that the ceilings are at least three meters high, and the chandelier itself is small in size so as not to touch it with your head.

Design: Dmitry Barashko


Another cool way to highlight these areas is to use onyx slabs. In addition to beautiful natural drawings, their main feature is the ability to transmit light. If a plane with onyx illuminated from the inside is planned in the design project of the combined bathroom, in other areas limit yourself to ceiling lights and dim lighting, otherwise there will be overkill. nine0003


Bathroom and toilet mirror elements

To venture on the mirror surfaces in the combined bathroom somewhere else than the mirror over the washbasin, you need a certain courage and the services of a housekeeper - such a finish requires constant care.

Design: Anna Smorgonskaya, Natalia Belyavskaya


Design: Oksana Lobanova, Svetlana Zhdanova (Kurochkina)

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But it's worth it: large mirrored surfaces are the key to an expressive and bright environment, and they will also increase the space of a small-sized bathroom, visually adding a few square meters to it.

Design: Pavel Mironov, Anna Kulikova


5 mistakes in planning and decorating a combined bathroom

Don't think over the ergonomics and trajectory of movement. Even if the layout looks harmonious in the render or photo, the bathroom and toilet renovation - if done correctly - involves a comfortably planned arrangement of objects and conditional routes along which the hosts and guests will move. nine0003

If these moments are ignored or miscalculated, the bathroom can turn out to be uncomfortable: someone will constantly bump into corners, reaching for a towel from the shower will be too far, or something else.

Design: Olga Ivanova, Stanislav Klyuev


Design: Victoria Lazareva


Design: NG-Studio


Choose a washbasin, toilet, bidet or bath that is too angular. nine0386 The stylish sharp corners of some of the minimalist bathroom ceramic series are also fraught with injury.

Design: Vadim Vyaltsev, Olga Borzina, Natalya Kandaurova


Design: Oksana Oleinik


Provide few closed cabinets and shelves for storage. Jars, bottles and other containers with cosmetics and household chemicals on the washbasin or bathtub sides will spoil the whole design, overshadow beautiful tiles and stylish faucets. The situation is similar with a washing machine, if a place for it was found only in the bathroom: it is optimal to hide it in a built-in wardrobe or closet. nine0003

Design: UB design


Design: Oksana Turchak


Use different size towels. Ideal if all towels are white. And in order not to get confused, order embroidery on each towel with the first letter of the owner's name or with another identification mark.

Design: Vadim Vyaltsev, Olga Borzina, Natalya Kandaurova


Don't think about lighting. Shaded corners in any space are taboo, so one light bulb, like in a separate bathroom, is definitely not enough.

Design: Aaarchitect


Design: Anna Ishutova


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