The master bathroom is one of the most used and important rooms in a home. It provides privacy, adds property value, and can become a personal sanctuary when designed to your individual liking. The latest trends in master bathroom design are spa-like wet-rooms and beautifully tiled walk-in showers. With our team of designers, all your master bath remodel dreams are possible!
Recently in new construction and design, wet rooms are all the rave in a master bath. They are the perfect infusion of luxury in everyday life, even if you have limited space to work with. Think of vibrant floor-to-ceiling tiles, built-in seating, and multiple faucets. All while not having to worry about whether or not you laid out the bathmat before getting in! A seamless wet room can include a gorgeous deep soaking tub, dual-headed shower, and steam room all in one. It saves space and provides a spa-like feel. What’s not to love?
In addition to their luxury design, wet rooms have a hygienic advantage. Because water is able to hit so much of its surface area, it’s easier to clean!
If you don’t have the need for a wet room or tub but still want to elevate your master bath, there’s always the option of a beautifully tiled shower with all the fixings. The possibilities are endless, — there’s the additions of built-in benches, multiple shower heads and faucets, storage niches, zero entry floors, steamers . . . And that’s just the beginning when it comes to the accessories! A shower is something you use every day (at least we hope!), so why not enjoy one of the spaces you use the most with an aesthetic upgrade?
THE DIFFERENCE
Now you might be stuck between the two or wondering what benefits one may have over the other. Here are some of the key differences to help you decide.
Design & Structure:
- Walk-In Shower: A walk-in shower typically has a defined and enclosed shower area that is separate from the rest of the bathroom. There’s often a glass door or partition to contain the water within the showering space. The bottom of the shower area can be slightly raised or have a “zero-entry” feature, which means it’s on the same level as the bathroom floor.
- Wet Room: A wet room is a fully waterproof washroom where the entire space functions as a shower area and often contains a tub. There isn’t always a distinct enclosure or separation between the wet room and the rest of the bathroom. The floor is gently sloped toward a floor drain to allow water to flow freely. The walls and floors are completely waterproof to prevent water damage.
Accessibility:
- Walk- in shower: Walk-in showers are often more accessible than traditional enclosed showers or bathtubs because they often have a low or curbless entry, which is ideal for individuals with disabilities.
- Wet Room: Wet rooms are also highly accessible due to their barrier-free design. The absence of a shower enclosure, curb, or curtain makes them wheelchair-friendly and suitable for individuals with disabilities.
Aesthetics:
- Walk-in Shower: Walk-in showers are known for their modern and sleek appearance. They are often designed with glass walls or doors, which can imbue a contemporary and spacious feel to the bathroom.
- Wet Room: Wet rooms have a minimalist and open aesthetic. They can be designed without barriers or enclosures, creating a clean and spacious look; but it may require careful planning to ensure proper waterproofing and drainage.
Installation & Costs:
- Walk-in Shower: Installing a walk-in shower is usually less complex and more affordable compared with creating a wet room because it involves less extensive waterproofing and drainage preparation.
- Wet Room: Wet rooms require more extensive waterproof and drainage systems, which can increase installation costs.
Ultimately, the choice between a walk-in shower and a wet room depends on your preferences, budget, and the available space in your bathroom. Both options offer a modern and open showering experience, but wet rooms provide the most open, barrier-free design. If you are having trouble deciding or need help with where to begin, book an appointment with one of our amazing designers! They can make any home makeover dream a reality.
