While wetrooms have long dominated as the hero of spa-style luxury, there’s a new kid on the block – the ‘shower room’. So, we’ve asked leading experts why Brits are now hankering after these super-sized enclosures and what’s so great about them…
First, what is a shower room? It is essentially an XL shower enclosure, kind of like a self-contained sauna room, but without the intense heat and cedar cladding (unless, of course, that takes your fancy). While there are modern takes on this trend, it’s an aesthetic that would probably look more at home on a Wes Anderson film set, often finished with elaborate tiling and luxe details – think The Grand Budapest Hotel vibes.
KBB journo Charlotte Luxford has found that the new shower room is more about reimagining this nostalgic notion of luxury, with a nod to the grand thermal spas of the past, and elevating the everyday shower routine to new heights.
“These self-contained rooms, often with a dedicated shower door, provide a super-sized showering space similar to a wetroom but without the need to waterproof the entire bathroom,” explains Oli Webb, director at Cullifords. “They are becoming the modern alternative to wetrooms, offering a similar sense of space, luxury and style but without the high cost involved.”
Where does the trend originate from?
According to the designers we spoke to, the aesthetic has largely travelled across the pond from the US, where space is inherently more abundant. But us Brits have cottoned on to the idea and are now making room for these super-sized shower rooms in our homes, too.
Perhaps due to the rise in home renovations in the UK, along with a greater focus on wellness, UK homeowners are shifting their focus towards creating dedicated shower rooms, prioritising luxurious yet efficient uses of space.
Practical points
Unlike wetrooms, where all the bathroom fittings are in one space, these self-contained, spa-like shower rooms provide a more intimate sanctuary, plus they allow for more control over water containment and temperature. And while open-plan wetrooms often get pretty drenched after use, shower rooms ensure the water is nicely confined, keeping the rest of the bathroom toasty and dry right after a shower.
Not only that, they can be more accessible and user-friendly, particularly for those with mobility challenges. It’s not just the practicalities that make these new shower rooms desirable, though – they’re perfect for those who want a more immersive showering experience.
Within this contained, highly controlled environment, you can have steam showers, mood lighting or even a built-in sound system, for a truly pampering, personalised bathing experience. Plus, they often allow for features like seating, built-in shelving and multiple shower heads, all turning a simple shower into a luxurious ritual.
Aesthetic value
Let’s be honest, a large part of the trend is about aesthetics, too – it’s about creating a statement piece and a focal point of the bathroom, perhaps where a freestanding tub might usually take centre stage.
“Premium materials like solid brass and marble fit the bill in functionality and beauty,” says James Lentaigne, creative director at Drummonds. “The devil is in the detail with this look; the fixtures should be like a work of art, adding character, sophistication and an overall sense of luxury.”
But given their size, it does beg the question: are shower rooms a waste of space? Particularly when our humble UK bathrooms are usually on the small side. “It really depends on how the space is used and your point of view,” says Emma Scott, C.P. Hart’s director of client design.
Emma argues that some may see a shower room as a luxury that takes up a lot of real estate in a bathroom, but for others, it represents a smart use of space, especially in larger homes where a separate bathtub or traditional shower might not be necessary.
“The value of a shower room lies in its ability to provide a private, calming environment that supports wellness, so it’s less about ‘waste’ and more about how that space is experienced.”
So, which team are you on – shower room or wetroom?
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