Hands up – are you team shower or bath? If you, like me, love both, we’ve got just the right solution…
Say hello to shower baths. They are super common in the UK due to our traditionally small bathrooms and the need for multi-functionality. Plus, they allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds and come in thousands of styles, colours, and combinations. What more could you want, right?
So, are shower baths a good idea?
If you’re short on space, the shower-bath fusion is a great space-saving option for compact bathrooms. “Although many of us would like a separate shower area and bath, the truth is most of us don’t have the space,” says Jamie Bebbington, managing director at Aston Matthews.
So, what is the best compromise? Positioning the shower over one end of the tub, says Jamie. “You can shield the rest of the room from splashes with a glass screen, and we suggest fitting the bath and shower controls at the opposite end of the tub so that the shower can be turned on and allowed to run warm before the bather gets in,” he advises.
However, bathrooms of any size can benefit from this addition. Even if you love a quick, refreshing shower, you may still like the possibility of having the occasional indulgent bath.
Sharing your bathroom? “It’s ideal for households with multiple people using a bathroom who may have different preferences,” says Julie Gokce, senior designer at More Bathrooms. “It is also particularly popular for families with young children who prefer the functionality of the bath for bathing their children, but the practicality and ease of the shower for washing themselves.”
What’s more, for those thinking of selling down the line, it could be an excellent option to have both, just in case future homeowners have a preference, as Rikki Fothergill, bathroom style expert at Big Bathroom Shop, explains: “This setup can appeal to a wider range of potential buyers, potentially enhancing resale value.” Bonus!
Practicalities
Let’s look at some key considerations. First accessibility – climbing in and out of a bath can pose the risk of slipping. But with the right silicone mat or choosing a tub with a side door or accessible handles, you can avoid this problem. It’s worth noting that this is especially recommended if you have mobility issues.
As the shower isn’t fully enclosed, there is also a chance of water splashing all over the floor — again, another hazard. So, be careful and use a soft bath mat that can catch spills or opt for a larger enclosure or shower curtain.
Ways to elevate shower over baths
When you think of shower-baths, you probably envision a boxed-in tub with a shower curtain — a standard British look. However, there are so many ways to elevate this basic design. Why not incorporate a fluted glass shower screen? You could also use bold tiles to spruce up your fitted bath or add luxurious brassware to make your design really stand out – so many possibilities!
Because this type of bath doesn’t belong to one trend, it offers plenty of creative freedom. It is a chameleon that, with the right styling, it can blend into any bathroom. A freestanding tub with contemporary brassware would be ideal in a modern space, while a roll top or fitted bath with a traditional shower head would work better in a timeless scheme.
Shower curtain or bath screen?
Now for another debate: do you want a curtain or a bath screen? Both have pros and cons. The curtain can add much-needed softness to the space and can be easily swapped out to totally transform your bathroom’s look. Alternatively, screens are an investment but they help open up the space as they don’t block light and can truly elevate your design. “Shower screens, typically crafted from sleek glass, lend a modern touch that brings a sophisticated luxury feel to the bathroom. They also permit natural light to permeate the space, creating a bright and airy ambience,” says Phil Etherden, managing director at The Albion Bath Co.
“On the other hand, shower curtains offer a wealth of versatility and flexibility in design, as they are available in a diverse array of colours, patterns, and materials. This allows homeowners to infuse their own personality into the decor and coordinate with other elements in the space, ensuring a cohesive and personalised bathroom,” he explains.
Shower over baths are a staple in UK bathroom design, but hopefully, we have inspired you to stamp your personality on this timeless solution.
Enjoyed this post? Click here for our guide on back-to-wall baths
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