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Wet shower ideas


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.

10 wet room bathroom designs for you |

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(Image credit: Mandarin Stone / Fired Earth / Quick-Step)

Small wet room ideas open up the opportunity for contemporary design, without the need to squeeze in a shower enclosure or raised shower tray to your master bathroom or ensuite.

Small wet rooms provide a spacious showering area and the high-end look of a luxurious hotel spa. They are also level entry, so easily accessible to all, not to mention hygienic and easy to clean.  

However, small wet room ideas are a big project to take on when it comes to bathroom ideas. 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.

Small wet room ideas

A wet room or walk-in shower will add a truly luxurious-up, spa-like showering experience to your wet room ideas. Done well, a wet room is incredibly desirable and can boost your home’s value, too. Here's how to achieve the best results when planning a small wet room.

1. Go for all-over plaster in a small wet room

(Image credit: Quick-Step)

Hygienic, seamless and extremely beautiful, polished plaster is a popular choice right now. In small wet rooms and walk-in shower ideas, polished plaster’s waterproof prowess and elimination of moisture-seeping joints is the big story. Venetian plaster requires waxing to seal out water, but most micro-cements and Tadelakt plasters are inherently waterproof, not to mention stain-resistant, UV-stable and easy to clean.  

The polished plaster look can be very sleek and contemporary, or more rustic for an earthy effect. Adding pigments allows customisable color, and most types of polished plaster are suitable for use on floors, walls, ceilings and even furniture.

2. Take a less is more approach 

(Image credit: Kitesgrove)

‘When choosing colors and materials for small bathroom ideas and wet rooms, less is more. Here, we deliberately reduced the palette and created a streamlined design to really bring the focus to the materials,’ explains Katie Lion, interior designer, Kitesgrove . 

‘Natural marble is a quietly luxurious choice that instils a sense of sophistication and calm in any wet room. Its unique veining can be a simple but impactful way of bringing interest and layers to what is often a smaller space. We chose a brass finish for all the trims and fixtures to pick out the warm tones of the marble striations, helping it feel cohesive, elegant and timeless.’

3.

Introduce a color hit 

(Image credit: Silestone by Cosentino)

A wet room – no matter how big or small – can often leave you feeling cold and exposed, even if the space is well heated. Here, clever color blocking techniques demonstrate how you can break up an empty space, put the shower area in the spotlight and add a much-needed dose of visual warmth. 

Red tones promote coziness – the color here is Silestone’s earthy, Mediterranean shade Arcilla Red – and also work well with textural materials such as wood accessories and woven storage. 

‘Silestone surfaces come in a great range of colors and large format slabs so there will be minimal grouting to clean,’ adds Ross Stewart, general manager, Cosentino Newmarket.

4. Create cocooning curves

(Image credit: Mandarin Stone)

Tucking your shower into an alcove will contain splashing but, if space allows, a curved showering area is far more impressive. And you can still pop a robe hook nearby without risk of soggy towels.  

‘Curves provide a cocooning environment that will help you unwind physically and mentally while you shower,’ says Mandarin Stone’s creative director, Louisa Morgan. 

‘They also provide welcome relief to all the hard edges and surface finishes typically found in bathrooms.’ The trend for stacking skinny tiles vertically makes creating soft curves easier; add a generous border in a darker shade at floor level to really accentuate the shape.

5. Work the walls in a small shower room

(Image credit: Fired Earth)

It goes without saying that the floor of a wet room needs to be fully tanked but what about the walls? Shower tile ideas – on every inch of your wall – can prove incredibly sterile, not to mention costly. In this small wet room by Richstone Properties the walls are only tiled where absolutely necessary, namely in the main shower area and above the basin, and the space feels much more inviting for this restrained approach. 

Do install tiled or stone upstands rather than timber skirting boards to protect lower walls from water damage. Remaining surfaces can be painted in a moisture resistant paint, like satin or eggshell, and don’t forget decent extraction.

6. Divide your wet room

(Image credit: Drummonds)

In smaller wet rooms, it pays to divide the space into wet and dry zones. A tall metal-framed screen lends an industrial edginess to this striking wet room, while keeping water away from the beautiful marble-topped vanity. 

Making a feature of this dividing point boosts the overall design, particularly the clever mix of fluted and plain glass. The former nods to mid-century industrialism, adding an element of privacy, and the latter lets in maximum daylight from the window beyond. Locating the shower controls well away from the showerhead is also a smart idea.

7. Combine a small wet room with a bathing area

(Image credit: Max Kim-Bee
 /Victoria + Albert Baths at House of Rohl)

‘Side-by-side showers are perfect for ensuite bathroom ideas that are designed for sharing,’ says Emma Joyce, brand manager at House of Rohl .  

‘It’s often a feature you’ll find in luxury hotels and allows plenty of personal space while making a bold statement. Try pairing with a freestanding tub to enjoy the best of both worlds.’ 

In this small wet room by Leanne Ford Interiors , the floor has been raised to accommodate drainage pipes, with a stepped front. The entire space inside was then tanked and tiled, essentially creating a giant shower tray that keeps water completely contained.

8. Take a dark and dramatic approach

(Image credit: Sarah Hogan)

Don't be afraid to use a dark color in a small wet room. A good bathroom color scheme is essential for creating the look, feel and design you want in your space – and you can use everything, from tiles and sanitaryware to accessories, to create a unique look. Introducing a dark and dramatic hue to your wet room – or walk-in shower – will really lift your whole home, bringing this functional space in line with the rest of your decor. 

9.

Invest in luxury bathroom materials

(Image credit: Future / Mark Bolton )

There are few materials that can create the feeling of a luxury bathroom design that marble can. Elegant, timeless and effortlessly beautiful, marble is usually used in wet rooms to create a statement finish, and although it is an expensive investment, it is a look that will last a lifetime. 

'Marble bathroom ideas work wonderfully in small wet rooms, and because of the relatively small space, it is also cost-effective, too. However, consider the use of marble carefully for spaces where you are using it in swathes because no slab of marble is the same as another. 

'What I love most with marble is the activity, veining and coloration,' says interior designer Cara Woodhouse. 

10. Make sure you wet room is warm and ventilated

(Image credit: Mandarin Stone)

It’s important to take extra steps with regard to heat, ventilation and drying. No one wants to exit a wet room onto carpeted rooms. A screen will help to contain major puddles, but underfloor heating and heated towel rails will also speed up drying and help prevent slip hazards. And, do consider all non-slip bathroom flooring options when at the initial planning stage.

Mechanical ventilation is a must – and will help to clear steam quickly – look for models with intelligent humidity sensors that automatically boost when required.

Is a wet room good for a small bathroom?

A wet room is a good idea for a small bathroom. There are lots of benefits to having a small wet room – from being able to utilize a tiny or awkward space where a bath or standard shower enclosure cannot fit, to future-proofing your home.

What is the smallest size needed for a wet room?

The smallest size usually recommended for a wet room measures a minimum 800 x 800mm. 

According to the best bathroom designers, 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?

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

Linda graduated from university with a First in Journalism, Film and Broadcasting. Her career began on a trade title for the kitchen and bathroom industry, and she has worked for Homes & Gardens, and sister-brands Livingetc, Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, since 2006, covering interiors topics, though kitchens and bathrooms are her specialism. 

Tips on how to equip a shower room: a cubicle, corner, partition or door - ideas for home improvement

It seems that there are two ways to equip a shower room: put a cubicle, or a corner. But in fact, there are two more: install a partition along the wall or a glass door into a niche. Each of these methods has its own characteristics and advantages.

In the article we tell you how they differ and how to choose the right design.

What is the difference between designs

One bathroom may be ideally suited with a partition wall, while another may only have an enclosed shower enclosure. To choose the right option, you need to understand the features of each design.

cabin

corner

Partial

door

Design features

A fully autonomous hermetic design. The cabin can be installed against a wall or in a corner.

Construction of one or more walls and doors. Installed in a corner only.

Fixed glass panel that is fixed to the wall or floor. It can adjoin the corner of the room or stand parallel to one of the walls at a distance from it.

Fixed panel and door construction, or door only. Installed in a niche, between two walls.

Walls

The cab is equipped with walls on all sides, including the rear.

One or two wall panels separate the corner from the rest of the room and form an enclosed space. The role of the back wall is performed by the wall of the bathroom.

A shower room with only a screen is always open because it does not have one or two side walls. The role of the back and side walls can be performed by the walls of the bathroom.

The door is used as a front wall that closes the niche. And the walls of the bathroom perform the function of the back and side walls.

Integrated. Can be sliding or hinged.

One or two doors included. They can be folding, sliding, swinging, or opening in both directions.

Not available.

The structure itself functions as a door. It can be folding, sliding, swinging, or opening in both directions.

Tray

Most often included in the cab design.

Corner can be supplied with or without a tray. In the second case, the structure is mounted directly on the floor.

Not included. Shower screens can be installed both on the floor and on the tray.

Not included. The door is installed on the floor or on a pallet.

Most often, the cabin is equipped with a roof, which makes it completely closed and sealed.

Usually the shower enclosure does not have a roof and remains open at the top.

-

-

Shower set and accessories

Shower set and accessories included. Some models have additional options: hydro and air massage, radio rain shower and backlight.

Shower set and accessories sold separately.

Shower set and accessories sold separately.

Shower set and accessories sold separately.

How to choose the shape and size

When choosing the type of construction, it is better to build on the size of the bathroom. The shower should stand so that it is convenient to approach it and other plumbing. For example, a washbasin.

The shower enclosure takes up the most space compared to a shower area equipped with a corner or a partition.

How to choose a shower cabin

The shape of the shower cabin is square, rectangular, polygonal, quarter circle and asymmetrical - rounded on one side. Each side of the cab can be 80 to 170 cm long. The longer, the more spacious inside, but in a small bathroom it is better to choose compact options.

Medium size shower enclosures

Square shower enclosure is the best option for a small bathroom. Pictured is a WeltWasser model in size 90x90x217 cm

The height of the shower cabin is usually 190-230 cm. It should be selected based on the height of the tallest member of the family.

The height of the shower enclosure varies from 3 to 45 cm. If there are elderly people in the family, it is worth choosing a low shower tray so that they can comfortably use the cabin.

shower enclosures are used for both compact bathrooms and spacious bathrooms as an addition to the bath. The shape of the corner can be: rectangular, square, asymmetrical, quarter circle and polygonal.

How to choose a shower enclosure

Dimensional grid of angles is diverse, you can choose a design of any length and width:

— For small-sized combined bathrooms with an area of ​​3 sq.m, square models from 70x70 to 85x85 cm in size, or a quarter of a circle 80x80 in size are suitable see

Compact shower enclosures

— In a spacious bathroom, you can install a corner of any shape with dimensions of 100x100 cm and above.

Spacious shower enclosures

The height of the corners varies from 160 to 220 cm. If there are elderly people or people with disabilities in the family, it is better to choose the option without a pallet. Then, to take a shower, you will not need to climb onto the tray, as in showers.

Compact shower enclosures allow you to save space and install a storage system and even a washing machine in a small bathroom. In the photo, an example of the arrangement of a bathroom in the project of Irina Maksimova

Shower screens are used both as independent structures and as an integral part in the arrangement of a shower enclosure.

How to choose a shower screen

You can choose a screen of any size: according to individual or standard sizes. The width of a standard screen varies between 70-160 cm and the height between 170-220 cm

Shower screens

A shower area equipped with a screen only remains partially open. If you put one in a small bathroom, splashes of water can scatter throughout the room. Therefore, partitions are more suitable for spacious bathrooms. In the photo, the model of the brand Veconi Frost Line size 90x195

Shower doors. You can put the door as an independent structure only in a niche between the walls of the bathroom. A wide range of sizes allows you to choose a model for both spacious and narrow niches.

How to choose a shower door

The width of the shower doors varies from 55-220 cm, and the height is from 180 to 220 cm.

Shower doors . The photo shows an example of arranging a niche in the project of Lucy Bausheva

When it is necessary to coordinate the installation with the BTI

When arranging the shower area, many people have a question - whether it is necessary to coordinate the actions with the BTI. Coordination will be required if:

- it is necessary to dismantle the wall between the bathroom and the toilet to combine it into one bathroom.

- it is necessary to increase the area of ​​the bathroom at the expense of non-residential premises.

- it is planned to transfer plumbing within the bathroom. For example, you need to move the sink to put the shower.

- additional plumbing needs to be installed. For example, equip another shower area.

- it is planned to replace plumbing with a larger and more powerful one. For example, instead of the old shower cabin, you need to install a new larger one with hydromassage. This is necessary because the new cab may consume electricity in excess of the installed capacity.

In other cases, if the water supply risers are not moved and the wet zones remain in place, no agreement is required.

How to choose the right design

Shower enclosures are the most difficult to harmoniously fit into the interior of the bathroom. Their decoration often uses a lot of white plastic, which is not always combined with wall cladding. And the ceiling and high pallet often give the cab a massive appearance, which can make it look heavy.

A shower cabin will most harmoniously fit into a bathroom in a minimalist style: with light walls to match the walls of the cabin and a minimum of decoration. The photo shows a model of the brand Royal Bath

Shower enclosures have a diverse and simple design, so they can be matched to any interior. The walls of the corner are most often transparent, which makes the design weightless and the room more spacious. The shower area, equipped with a corner, looks like a continuation of the room.

How to choose a shower bar for corner

When arranging your shower enclosure, you can choose the color and shape of partitions, doors, fittings and fittings to your liking. As well as finishing the rear walls. In the photo there is a shower corner in the project of Konstantin Kryukov

Shower partitions and doors allow you to zone the space and do not burden the interior with unnecessary elements. The most common option is transparent glass models. Also often there are models with a matte finish, with tinting or decor in the form of patterns and stained glass windows.

Transparent partitions and doors are airy and fit into any environment and interior. The photo shows a transparent shower screen by Ravak Walk-In Wall

The frosted door will perfectly fit into a minimalist bathroom in monochrome or light colors. A niche with such a door will look more secluded. The photo shows an example of a translucent shower door brand Royal Bath

How much each option will cost

Shower enclosures are usually more expensive than a shower enclosure. Their cost varies from 20 to 100 thousand and more and depends on the quality of materials and the availability of additional options:

- The simplest small-sized models with thin walls and most often a low pallet cost up to 20 thousand.

The photo shows a shower cabin Royal Bath

- Better models cost from 20 to 50 thousand. They are distinguished by thick-walled panels, a strong pallet and reliable, durable fittings. Sometimes they are equipped with additional options: lighting, hydromassage, electronic control.

In the photo is the Royal Bath shower cabin

- Cabins costing from 50 thousand and above are usually distinguished by their original content: a mirror, a radio with bluetooth function, multi-colored LED backlighting and other options.

Prices for shower enclosures range from 7 to 80 thousand. The cost depends on several parameters:

- The material from which the panels and the door are made. Plastic and polystyrene are cheaper, but last less. Tempered glass panels are more expensive and more reliable.

- The presence of a pallet and its quality: the most budget models are made of ABS plastic and acrylic. More expensive ones are made of steel, ceramics or artificial stone.

Berges MELITA shower enclosure with tempered glass door

Shower door is the most economical way to equip a bathroom, provided that the room has a suitable niche with dimensions of at least 75x75 cm.

The cost of shower doors varies from 7 to 30 thousand. The price depends on the quality of the material: tempered glass is more expensive, plastic is cheaper. The most expensive doors are made of triplex.

The photo shows a shower door made of Good Door Latte brand glass

The design also affects the cost of shower doors: tinting, ornamentation, stained-glass windows - all this increases the price of the product.

Shower screens can cost from 11 to 100 thousand. The price also depends on the quality: glass is more expensive, less durable plastic is cheaper.

Pictured is Cezares glass shower screen made of tempered glass

Summary: how to decide on the choice of design

- Cabin and corner - closed structures, suitable for both compact and spacious bathrooms.

— It is better to equip a shower room from one partition only in spacious bathrooms, as it remains partially open.

- The door can only be installed if there is a niche in the bathroom with a size of at least 75x75 cm.

— Cabin is easiest to fit harmoniously into a minimalist interior in light colors, since its finish does not always match with wall cladding

— Corners, partitions and doors are more diverse in style, so they can be matched to any interior.

Which shower drain to choose: wet or dry shutter?

Recently, many people are installing a practical shower cabin instead of a large bathtub. But for its arrangement, you need to choose an aesthetic, reliable, high-quality drain ladder - an element of plumbing communications, with the help of which the spent water is discharged into the sewerage system. According to the standard, the shower drain is mounted in the floor in one place or pointwise, in several places at once. But it is allowed to install it in the wall. The ladder is used when a special tray is not provided in the shower or when the owner of the dwelling does not want to install it due to its unaesthetic appearance.

The structure of the shower drain includes: a siphon, a body, a shutter, a drain pipe and a decorative cover. To facilitate the installation process, some manufacturers add additional parts to the main kit. One of the main elements of the shower drain is the shutter. It is dry and wet. Let's take a look at the features of each below.

Benefits of installing a wet seal

Another name for a wet seal is a water seal. Its main function is to block unpleasant odors that enter the bathroom from the sewer with a water stopper. Experts recommend installing this type of shutter in those showers that are regularly used. If the owner uses a shower less than 2 times a week, then the water plug will dry out and the shutter will not block the smell. In addition, the water in it may not dry out and it itself will become a source of an unpleasant smell in the room.

The use of a wet water trap is allowed in baths, apartments, saunas, in rooms where drains are regularly used and the temperature is maintained above zero. Of the advantages of the design, it is worth noting:

As noted above, with long breaks, the water seal loses its performance. Another disadvantage: the inability to use at temperatures below 0˚. The principle of operation of a water seal is simple. A bowl filled with water is installed in the siphon and blocks the flow of an unpleasant odor. A pipe is placed in it. As soon as the water level in the bowl rises, it will begin to go through the pipe into the sewer. Air access is closed.

The water trap is already included in the drain kit. Therefore, when ordering a shower drain, check with the seller for the type of shutter used.

How the dry seal works

The design of the dry seal has an air gap that blocks the flow of fetid sewer odor. Dry valves of the following types are on sale: