In modern bathroom design, wet rooms have become a popular choice, especially for those working with limited floor space. A small wet room can transform a compact area into a luxurious, easy-to-maintain space that maximises every inch. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to create a small wet room, focusing on essential design ideas, the benefits of a seamless design, and tips for installing a wet room in small spaces.

What is a Small Wet Room?

A small wet room is a bathroom where the shower area is level with the rest of the floor, with no need for a traditional shower tray or enclosure. The entire room is waterproofed (tanked), allowing water to drain away easily. This seamless design not only creates a sleek, modern look but also maximises the available floor space, making it an ideal solution for small bathrooms.

Why Choose a Small Wet Room?

Maximising Floor Space

One of the biggest advantages of a small wet room is how it optimises floor space. Traditional bathrooms with shower enclosures and bathtubs can feel cramped, but a wet room’s open design makes the space feel larger and more open. By eliminating barriers such as a shower tray or enclosure, you can make even the smallest bathroom feel spacious.

Seamless Design

The seamless design of a wet room is a major draw for many homeowners. Without the need for a shower tray, the floor continues uninterrupted, which creates a sleek and modern look. Large format tiles can further enhance this effect by reducing the number of grout lines, giving the impression of a larger, more cohesive space. This design approach not only looks luxurious but also contributes to making the space easy to clean and maintain.

Versatility in Small Spaces

Wet rooms are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to fit even the smallest bathrooms. Whether you’re dealing with an awkward layout or a compact area, a wet room can be customised to suit your needs. Wall-hung fixtures, such as toilets and sinks, can free up valuable floor space, while clever storage solutions ensure that the room remains functional without feeling cluttered.

Installing a Wet Room: Key Considerations

Waterproofing

The most critical aspect of installing a wet room is ensuring that the entire space is properly waterproofed. This process, known as tanking, involves applying a waterproof membrane to the floor and walls. It’s essential to hire a professional to carry out this work to prevent any water damage.

Drainage

Proper drainage is another crucial element of a successful wet room. The floor should be slightly sloped towards the drain to ensure that water flows away efficiently. Installing a high-quality drainage system will prevent water from pooling on the floor, which is especially important in small spaces.

Shower Screens

While wet rooms are designed to be open, adding a shower screen can help to contain water spray and keep other areas of the bathroom dry. Frameless shower screens are a popular choice because they maintain the seamless design of the wet room while offering some protection from splashing.

Heating

Wet rooms can feel cold, especially with all the hard surfaces. Underfloor heating is an excellent solution for adding warmth and comfort to your wet room. It also helps to dry out the floor quickly, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Design Ideas for Small Wet Rooms

Large Format Tiles

Using large format tiles in your wet room can create the illusion of more space. Fewer grout lines make the room feel more expansive, and the continuous surface adds to the seamless design. Choose light-coloured tiles to enhance this effect and make the room feel brighter.

Wall-Hung Fixtures

Wall-hung toilets and sinks are perfect for small wet rooms. By lifting these fixtures off the floor, you free up more floor space, making the room feel less cramped. Wall-hung units also make cleaning easier, as you can easily mop or wipe down the floor underneath them.

Mirrors and Glass

Incorporating mirrors and glass into your wet room design can also help to create the illusion of space. A large mirror can reflect light and make the room feel more open, while glass shower screens maintain the openness of the room without compromising on functionality.

Smart Storage Solutions

Storage is often a challenge in small bathrooms, but with a wet room, you can get creative. Recessed shelves, wall-mounted cabinets, and under-sink storage can all help to keep your essentials organised without taking up valuable floor space.

Lighting

Good lighting is key in a small wet room. Natural light is ideal, so if possible, include a window in your design. If natural light is limited, consider installing recessed ceiling lights or LED strips to brighten the space without taking up any room.

Colour Schemes

Light colours work best in small spaces as they reflect light and make the room feel bigger. Whites, soft greys, and pastels are popular choices for wet rooms. However, don’t be afraid to add a pop of colour with accessories or a feature wall to add personality to your space.

Multifunctional Spaces

In very small spaces, consider combining the wet room with other bathroom functions. For example, a wet room can include a compact bathtub within the shower area. This multifunctional approach maximises the utility of the space without compromising on style or comfort.

Is a Small Wet Room a Good Idea?

For those with small bathrooms, installing a wet room is not just a good idea—it’s a great one. The seamless design, combined with the clever use of space, makes wet rooms a practical and stylish solution for small spaces. They are easy to clean, maintain, and can add value to your home.

A small wet room can completely transform your bathroom, offering a modern, luxurious feel that maximises every inch of space. Whether you’re renovating a tiny ensuite or creating a new shower room in a compact area, a wet room is a versatile and efficient choice.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to designing a small wet room, the key is to focus on maximising floor space while maintaining a seamless design. By choosing the right materials, fixtures, and layout, you can create a bathroom that feels open, airy, and luxurious, no matter how small the space. With careful planning and the right design ideas, your small wet room can become the highlight of your home.

Speak to a Professional

Ready to perfect small wet room? With EA Mobility’s innovative wet room designs, we’re committed to enhancing comfort and independence for everyone.

Get in touch with us today to explore our range of products and find the perfect solution for your needs. Don’t compromise on style or accessibility – with EA Mobility, you can have both. Start your journey towards a more comfortable, independent future today with a free brochure.