WET ROOM REVIVAL 2022
The wet room bathroom isn’t necessarily a new concept but is having an invigorated resurgence in homes. Last year we saw many renovators adopt the open-plan formation, which typically sees the shower, bath and sometimes vanity in a boundary-free space. 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 finishes and create rooms which are more practical. So let’s dive into this exciting design revival and all you need to know about wet rooms.
In this design from Melissa Lunardon, a walk-through wet room set-up allows for a freestanding bath in the centre of the room and a shower that can be used from either side behind the bath. Without disturbing the flow of the room, a walk-through shower like this gives a luxurious feel which is well-suited to high-end bathrooms.
Wet Rooms; Make a Splash
Wet rooms aren’t far removed from standard bathrooms at all. The difference is that their open-plan design features little to no dividers between each bathroom component. This means that the bath, shower, vanity, and toilet are kept close by in one central minimalistic space. Usually, the shower and bath are contained together, with a partial glass shower screen separating the vanity and toilet.
Wet room bathrooms also require adequate waterproofing, as the space is designed to get entirely saturated. This is done by a process called tanking, whereby a membrane makes the wet room invulnerable to leaks. Wet rooms also need to be tiled from floor to ceiling.
Wet Room Pros
All Sizes And Spaces: Wet rooms are a fantastic bathroom design choice for small and larger spaces. It has an advantage in smaller bathroom sizes since the open-plan formation can make the area feel more spacious. In bigger bathrooms, a wet room can look opulent and add a point of distinction.
Mobility: The minimalistic concept of a wet room is also helpful for the elderly or those with mobility issues, as moving around between each fitting faces fewer obstructions. Just ensure that there are handrails to promote added safety.
Cleaning Ease: As a wet room is meant to get the whole area wet, cleaning is an easier task. Also, suppose you section off the bath and shower with a partial glass screen. In that case, water is protected from the vanity or toilet, offering less opportunity for watermarks to stain those areas.
The Wet Room Vanity
Having a minimalistic vanity to accompany your wet room is essential. Consider opting for a floating one so there is no opportunity for water to pool near the bottom and cause damage. It also suits the stripped-back aesthetic of a wet room to lift and lighten the space.
Wet Room Practicalities
Airflow: A wet room can quickly become a humid environment, where everything can remain damp for a while. It’s imperative to have good airflow to prevent mould and grime from building up. Proper fans and windows dry out moisture and can make it a safer place to move around. This should be a strong consideration in the design process.
Storage: In smaller wet rooms, it’s easier for items you would like to stay dry to get wet. Ensure that these belongings, such as toilet paper and towels, are stored in a location that ensures they don’t get affected by moisture. Storage of such items should not be ignored in the design for the sake of aesthetics.
Budget: Waterproofing and tiling expenses can add up quickly and should be carefully budgeted for. It may be more costly, but ensuring that this area is properly fitted out to withstand moisture means that you won’t run into any complications down the track. Work with experienced and knowledgeable professionals to form a realistic budget.