Bathrooms are no longer just functional rooms in the home. They’ve become personal spaces where people go to unwind, relax and add a touch of luxury to their everyday routines. Whether you’re updating your bathroom space for your own enjoyment or to boost your home’s value, choosing the right shower setup can make all the difference. Two of the most popular modern options are wet room showers and walk-in shower enclosures.
Both offer style, practicality and a contemporary look, but they aren’t the same. In this guide, we’ll explore what sets them apart, the pros and cons of each, but also how to decide which one is right for your home.
What Are Wet Room Showers?
Wet room showers are designed to give your bathroom space a sleek, open-plan look. In a wet room, the entire floor is waterproofed, meaning there’s no need for a shower tray or raised area. The floor itself becomes the shower area, gently sloped towards a floor drain to manage water runoff.
One of the key features of modern wet rooms is the use of wet room screens. These are often made from toughened safety glass to help prevent water from splashing into other parts of the bathroom. They’re not fully enclosed like traditional shower enclosures, so you still get that open, airy feel. Wet room screens are ideal for small bathrooms, where saving space is often a priority.
A modern wet room doesn’t just look great, it’s practical too. The completely level floor makes it easy to access, making it a popular choice for homeowners planning for future accessibility. You’ll also find a wide range of wet room products on the market, from drainage systems to specialist waterproofing materials, designed to make these spaces both stylish and functional.
What Are Walk-In Shower Enclosures?
Walk-in shower enclosures offer a stylish and practical alternative to wet rooms. Unlike wet rooms, these setups usually include a shower tray to help contain the water. The tray sits almost level with the floor, creating a low step that’s easy to get in and out of. This design keeps water contained in a defined shower space, helping to keep the rest of your bathroom space dry.
A walk-in shower is typically enclosed by shower screens made from toughened safety glass, providing a barrier that stops water from splashing outside the designated area. These shower enclosures come in various styles, from fully open designs with just one glass panel to more enclosed setups that offer a little more privacy.
As the waterproofing is focused around the shower tray and not the entire room, walk-in showers are usually quicker and more affordable to install than wet rooms. This makes them an excellent choice for homeowners who want a modern look without the extra cost or complexity.
Key Differences Between Wet Room Showers and Walk-In Shower Enclosures
While both wet rooms and walk-in shower enclosures create a modern look, the way they work and how they’re installed is quite different. Wet room showers require the entire bathroom to be waterproofed, including the walls and floor. This involves specialist materials and expertise to ensure the space is fully protected against water damage.
Walk-in showers, on the other hand, rely on a shower tray to manage drainage. The area around the tray is waterproofed, but the rest of the bathroom remains unchanged. This makes installation simpler and often less disruptive.
The layout is another key difference. Wet rooms feel completely open, with the shower space blending seamlessly with the rest of the room. Wet room screens can be added to control splashing, but the overall look is very minimalist. Walk-in showers provide more separation, thanks to the tray and shower enclosure made from toughened safety glass. This helps keep water contained, making the bathroom easier to maintain day to day.
The Benefits of Wet Room Showers
Wet rooms are ideal for homeowners looking to create a high-end, spa-like feel in their bathroom space. They’re perfect for small bathrooms, where removing bulky shower cubicles can make the room feel much larger. The open layout and level flooring also make them accessible for people with mobility concerns.
A wide range of wet room products are available to help customise the space, from stylish wet room screens to advanced floor drain systems. When installed properly, a modern wet room not only looks great but also adds long-term value to your home.
However, wet rooms do come with higher installation costs. The waterproofing process, also known as tanking, needs to be done correctly to prevent leaks. You’ll also need to make sure the shower space is designed to manage water effectively, otherwise you could end up with water pooling in unwanted areas.
The Benefits of Walk-In Shower Enclosures
Walk-in shower enclosures provide a practical and stylish option for homeowners who want a modern look without the full commitment of a wet room. The shower tray helps contain water, while the shower enclosure made from toughened safety glass keeps the rest of the bathroom dry.
These showers are easier and more affordable to install because they don’t require the entire room to be waterproofed. They’re also a great choice for small bathrooms, where a shower tray and glass panels can help define the shower space without making the room feel cramped.
You’ll find plenty of styles to choose from, whether you prefer a fully open look or a more enclosed design. Either way, walk-in shower enclosures offer a great balance of style and practicality, making them a popular choice for busy households.
Choosing the Right Option for Your Home
When it comes to deciding between wet room showers and walk-in shower enclosures, it all comes down to your budget, the size of your bathroom space and your personal preferences.
If you love the idea of a completely open, modern wet room and you’re happy to invest in the installation, a wet room could be the perfect choice. They’re especially useful in small bathrooms, where they can make the most of the available space.
If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly and practical for everyday use, walk-in shower enclosures might be the better option. The shower tray and shower enclosure help contain water, making the bathroom easier to maintain while still offering a stylish, modern look.
Speak to HR Simply Bespoke About Your Bathroom Project
At HR Simply Bespoke, we specialise in creating beautiful bathrooms tailored to your home and lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of a fully waterproofed modern wet room or a stylish walk-in shower enclosure, our expert team is here to help.
We’ll work with you to design the perfect shower space, recommend the right wet room products and ensure every detail is taken care of. From the initial consultation to the final installation, we make the process smooth, stress-free and fully bespoke.
Get in touch with us today to book your free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll help you explore your options and bring your dream bathroom to life.
