• Plumbing & Heating
  • Bathroom Installation
  • Property Renovations & Repairs

Bathrooms vs Wet Rooms – Which is Better for Your Home?

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When planning a bathroom renovation, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is whether to choose a traditional bathroom or a modern wet room. Both options have their advantages, from comfort and practicality to sleek design and space-saving benefits. But which is the right choice for your home?

At M J Burt, we’ve been helping homeowners across Dorset create stylish, functional spaces for decades. In this guide, we’ll compare bathrooms and wet rooms, explore their pros and cons, and share clever storage solutions to help you make the most of your space.

What’s the Difference Between a Bathroom and a Wet Room?

Before weighing up which option is best, it helps to understand what sets them apart.

  • Bathroom: A traditional bathroom is designed with defined zones. It usually includes a bath, shower, basin, and toilet. Surfaces are waterproofed, but the whole room is not intended to get wet. Showers are contained within a tray or enclosure to prevent water from spreading across the floor.
  • Wet Room: A wet room takes a different approach. The entire room is fully waterproofed (tanked), with a level-access shower area built directly into the flooring. Water drains away through a central or discreet drain, creating a seamless, open-plan feel.

In short, bathrooms offer comfort and familiarity, while wet rooms provide a sleek, modern, and highly practical solution – especially for smaller or contemporary homes.

The Benefits of a Traditional Bathroom

For many households, the bathroom remains the most practical and versatile choice. Some of the key benefits include:

Comfort and relaxation

A bath offers the ultimate opportunity to unwind, making bathrooms the go-to choice for those who value a little luxury after a long day.

Practical for families

Families with young children often find a bath essential, while the separation of shower and bath can help accommodate multiple users.

Adds resale value

Future buyers often expect at least one traditional bathroom in a property, particularly in family homes. Having a bath can boost the appeal of your home on the market.

Straightforward installation

Bathrooms usually require less waterproofing than wet rooms, which can make them quicker and sometimes more cost-effective to install.

The Benefits of a Wet Room

Wet rooms are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, especially in homes where space is limited or where accessibility is a priority. Their benefits include:

Modern, stylish design

Wet rooms bring a sleek, spa-like look to your home, making them a contemporary alternative to traditional bathrooms.

Maximises space

By removing bulky shower trays or enclosures, a wet room makes the most of compact spaces. This can be transformative for smaller bathrooms where every inch counts.

Accessibility

With level-access flooring, wet rooms are a practical solution for those with mobility challenges, making them a future-proof option for many households.

Low maintenance

With fewer fittings and easy-to-clean surfaces, wet rooms are often simpler to maintain and keep spotless.

Space-Saving Storage Solutions for Wet Rooms

One of the most common concerns with wet rooms is where to store everyday essentials without cluttering the open design. Fortunately, there are plenty of clever and stylish storage solutions available:

Floating shelves

A modern choice that saves floor space while offering room for toiletries or decorative items.

Built-in wall niches

Recessed shelving within tiled walls is both practical and discreet. Perfect for storing shampoos and soaps while keeping the design sleek.

Glass shelving

Light, elegant, and easy to clean, glass shelving adds functionality without making the space feel crowded.

Multi-purpose furniture

Benches or stools with hidden storage can serve dual purposes, providing seating while concealing everyday items.

Hidden storage options

Cabinets behind mirrors or tucked into corners offer a subtle way to keep the space organised without disrupting the minimalist aesthetic.

With thoughtful planning, storage in a wet room doesn’t need to be a compromise. Our team can help you design solutions that are both functional and stylish.

Which Option is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between a bathroom and a wet room comes down to your lifestyle, budget, and the space available.

If you’re looking for comfort, family practicality, and broad appeal when selling your home, a traditional bathroom may be the better fit.

If you prefer a modern look, need to make the most of a compact space, or want level-access for improved accessibility, a wet room could be the ideal solution.

At M J Burt, we specialise in bathroom and wet room installations across Dorset, helping homeowners create spaces that balance style with functionality. Whether you’re considering a complete renovation or a simple refresh, our team can guide you through every step of the process.

Ready to transform your bathroom? Get in touch with M J Burt today for expert advice and professional installation.

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