Why Add a Wet Room to a Bathroom?

Despite not being an entirely new concept, wet rooms have become increasingly popular in modern bathroom design. Their simple yet stylish appearance, combined with their practical benefits, contribute to their growing popularity among homeowners. We saw a couple great examples throughout the renovation show Dream Home.

In short, a wet room is essentially an open shower area that does not have a traditional shower tray or enclosure. Instead, the entire floor and walls are waterproofed to allow for water drainage. This creates a fully functional and versatile space that can be used as both a shower and a regular bathroom.

This minimalist design is often associated with modern and contemporary styles, but it can also be incorporated into traditional designs for a unique touch. It's not overly complicated to install, making it a feasible option for most bathrooms.

So why should you consider setup for your space? What can you expect in terms of space, functionality, and overall look? As it turns out, there are several reasons why it's a worthy investment.

One of the main advantages is that it allows for a more efficient use of space. With no need for a separate shower enclosure or tray, wet rooms are ideal for smaller restrooms. By eliminating physical barriers and instead incorporating the shower into the overall design, you can create an illusion of a larger and more open space.

Growing old or having a disability should not hinder you from enjoying a relaxing shower. Wet rooms provide easy access for those with mobility issues and can even be wheelchair accessible if designed properly.

You can also include handrails and non-slip flooring for added safety, so everyone can use the bathroom with ease. This can also be beneficial for families with young children or pets, as there is no need to step over a high shower tray.

Another benefit of a wet room is its easy cleaning and maintenance. With no shower enclosure or tray, there are fewer surfaces for mould and mildew to grow on, making it easier to keep clean. The lack of grout lines also means less scrubbing and the potential for discolouration over time.

All you need to do is simply squeegee the water towards the drain and give it a quick wipe down, and it'll be sparkling clean. This can save you time and effort in your cleaning routine and let you focus on other important tasks.

While the main concept of these setups is the same, there are various design options to suit your preferences and needs. Depending on your bathroom layout and style, you could customise the wet room to fit in seamlessly.

As the foundation of a wet room, the floor and wall materials play a crucial role. It's essential to choose waterproof and slip-resistant materials to prevent accidents and maintain the integrity of the space.

Common options for floors include tiles, vinyl, or concrete with a non-slip coating. For walls, you can use tiles, waterproof paint, or even a single sheet of waterproof material like acrylic or PVC. They're not only practical but also add to the overall aesthetic of the room.

The shower area is the focal point and can be designed in various ways. You could opt for a walk-in shower with glass panels or a concealed shower behind a half-wall. You could also incorporate seating or shelves for added functionality and easier accessibility.

As for the fixtures, your showerhead and faucet can be wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted, depending on your preference. There are also options for detachable showerheads and hand-held sprayers for added convenience. You can go as minimal or luxurious as you want, with more high-end options like rain showerheads and multiple sprayers.

Given the humid and moist nature of this setup, you'll need proper ventilation to prevent mould and mildew from growing. A fan or vent can help circulate the air and remove excess moisture, keeping your wet room clean and fresh.

You can install the ventilation system in the ceiling or wall, depending on your preference and bathroom layout. It's crucial to ensure that it's correctly sized for the space to be effective.

Let's say you want a more luxurious and spa-like feel for your wet room. In that case, you can also consider adding features like underfloor heating or steam showers. These additions not only provide added comfort but also help with drying out the space after use.

A well-lit wet room is not only functional but also creates a sense of spaciousness and elegance. Natural light is ideal, but you can also incorporate artificial fixtures like recessed lights or sconces to enhance visibility.

Consider using waterproof or moisture-resistant fixtures specifically designed for wet areas to prevent any hazards. You could also install dimmer switches for adjustable lighting and setting the mood.

Make sure to plan the placement of your lighting carefully, taking into account any potential water splashes from the shower area. For instance, avoid placing lights directly above the showerhead or too close to the wet zone. Instead, opt for placement on the perimeter of the room or above the vanity area.