From tranquil Icelandic waterfalls to wild tropical thunderstorms – are rainfall showers with flow modes inspired by nature as amazing as they sound?

We’ve all been there: caught in a sudden downpour, umbrella miles away – nice and dry – in the boot of your car or hallway. I don’t know about you, but I’ve certainly never stood in this wretched moment, drenched to the core, mascara running, socks sponging (the epitome of unglamorous), wondering if this would be an appropriate time to pop out the shampoo. And yet, there are a collection of very luxurious rainfall showers that take their water flow settings very seriously: from gentle mists to cascading waterfall functions. (I suppose these are more likely inspired by warm, tropical destinations – rather than my current vision/memory of Kingston high street.)

Next-level showering experience

So, what can these types of shower heads possibly offer in practical terms? We discussed this as a team after attending the launch of Dornbracht’s Aquahalo at West One Bathrooms’ showroom in Battersea.

The impressive chandelier-inspired design aims to make ‘every shower a blissful experience beyond compare’. But what makes it unique (alongside its incredible ring-shaped structure and price tag) is that it has not one, but three different types of flow modes: Aquacircle Rain (meditative and strengthening), Tempest Rain (‘like having a natural experience of a wild thunderstorm that invigorates, refreshes, and creates clarity’) and Diamond Rain – the one for washing your hair.

No, I’m not making this up. A little sceptical at first, I went on to research it a bit more. And, I probably spent a little too long being mesmerised by the video demonstrating each function. Blissful it looked indeed, and I was instantly converted.

What’s on the market?

Dornbracht is not alone in offering such an indulgent showering experience. Gessi’s Sogni is potentially even more ambitious – wanting to take you to a ‘new dimension that projects into a magical universe where the real and the unreal merge’. Well, that sounds nice, doesn’t it?

Crosswater’s Tranquil range even promises to bring you a slice of Iceland’s famous waterfall Seljalandsfoss’ peacefulness to your shower with its Waterfall model. Its Rainfall flow mode also promises to cocoon you in soft water.

Other brands have similar models with fanciful settings, from Hansgrohe’s Raindance to Ideal Standard’s Solos range that offers three luxurious spray modes including Rain, 2nd Skin, Active Massage and the latest SilkRain jet, which dispenses ultra-fine water droplets that ‘envelop the entire body’.

Do you really need a rainfall shower?

While this all sounds fantastic, what would someone really need with a shower that provides such sweet serenity? Does the average homeowner need to feel like they are in a new dimension under a waterfall in Iceland? And can their water bill take it?

An obvious reason for including something like this in your home is, of course, if you want a spa bathroom. “The large shower heads, which mimic natural rainfall, envelop you in a gentle, soothing stream that provides a full-body experience,” says Leigh-Anne Reabow, co-owner of Vaniti House, specialists in bathroom ware and design.

“After a long day, the consistent water flow melts away stress and tension, offering a natural massage that leaves you refreshed and revitalised. It’s like having a spa treatment right in your own home. Easy to install and highly efficient, a rainshower transforms your daily routine into a moment of rejuvenation.”

But this isn’t the only style of bathroom these indulgent heads are perfect for. “Rain showers are considered a point of luxury in a bathroom and feel like a real treat every time you have a soak,” says interior designer Lily Lucas.

So, if you’re looking for a bathroom with wow factor, or for a design that makes a statement and impresses guests, these will certainly do the trick too.

Practicalities

So, they look good, they feel good – but how practical are they? Lily continues, “From a more functional point of view, they’re not the easiest to use to have a quick wash without getting your hair wet – unless you’re wearing a well-fitted shower hat,” she laughs.

“They can be designed into spaces for everyone; yes, you can’t beat that hotel look with a walk-in shower and large rainfall head in the middle, but they don’t feel out of place over a shower-bath in the family bathroom, either. But they do have to be considered. Things like having a slight swivel on the arm make all the difference to the angle of water coming out.”

However, according to Alex Gibbs, designer at Bathroom & Kitchen Eleven, they’re not right for everyone – and that’s ok. “At the moment, clients aren’t overly caught up on having a rainfall shower. This is often down to the practical things, like how they’re quite difficult to clean. I’m finding that a popular shower head now is the shoulder shower: one on the wall at a 45° angle. These are much smaller, more powerful, easier to reach and clean, and have the ability to angle the shower head in different directions.

“Overall, I’d say that people initially still love the idea of a rainfall shower, but it’s important you talk to your designer about all the available options – and to look at your water pressure – before buying.”

Water usage considerations

Alex makes a good point; if your water pressure is too low, your rainfall shower will be less torrential and more trickle. Water usage is a valid concern, but there are lots of decent eco-friendly ranges available. “Aeration technology mixes air with water to create a powerful spray while using less water, conserving this precious resource, and lowering water bills,” explains Jorge Hernandez, head of design at Crosswater. “It also ensures consistent water pressure, enhancing user satisfaction even in areas with low water pressure.”

So, does a rainfall shower sound like your idea of heaven? Then we recommend going to bathroom showrooms to see them in action. Run your hand under each model and feel the difference. Then talk to designers about what they would recommend, and if it’s right for you.

I admit, I was a little unconvinced about the purpose of these showers before writing this piece. Although, perhaps this is because I am a self-confessed bubble-bather… So, if I couldn’t have an indulgent soak at the end of a hard day, would these sound ideal? Yes, yes they would.

Additional words: Vicki Evans

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