A guide to...

Wet Rooms

Design for Wet Rooms

Wet rooms have surged in popularity due to their sleek, open-plan design and practical benefits. They offer a seamless, minimalist look that enhances the sense of space, making them ideal for both small and large bathrooms. With no need for shower enclosures or trays, wet rooms are easy to clean and maintain, while also providing a luxurious, spa-like feel.

Key features to include are a fully waterproofed (tanked) floor and walls, gentle sloping for effective drainage, and non-slip surfaces for safety. High-quality fixtures, such as concealed shower systems and wall-mounted fittings, complete the modern, streamlined look. Wet rooms are not only visually stunning but also highly practical, especially for those seeking an accessible, low-maintenance bathroom solution.

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Wet Room 1

Modern open plan wet room

Our love of wet rooms continues! In contrast with a shower room, a true wet room is a fully waterproofed space designed to house a shower without the need for a traditional shower enclosure or tray. Unlike a standard shower setup, where the water is confined to a specific area, a wet room allows for an open-plan shower experience, with the water draining directly through a gradient in the floor.

Wet rooms are often tiled from floor to ceiling, creating a sleek, modern, and minimalist aesthetic. The entire room is effectively the shower, giving it a more spacious feel and making it easier to clean. Wet rooms are especially popular in contemporary homes and for those looking to maximize space, as they can be installed in smaller bathrooms where a conventional shower might feel cramped.

Design factors to consider when planning a wet room include the gradient of the floor for proper drainage, the choice of waterproof materials, and ensuring effective tanking (waterproofing) to prevent leaks. Additionally, non-slip tiles are often recommended for safety, as the open layout means more of the floor could become wet. Heating solutions like underfloor heating can also be incorporated to enhance comfort and aid in drying the room more quickly. Thoughtful placement of fixtures, such as the showerhead and controls, is important to prevent water from splashing onto other areas like vanities or toilets, although minimal partitioning such as glass screens can be added without sacrificing the open-plan feel. Wet rooms offer a luxurious, spa-like experience and are particularly suited to modern design aesthetics or accessibility needs due to their level-entry design.

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