Rising in popularity as a high-end bathroom option, wet rooms transform the look, feel, and functionality of a bathroom into a waterproof space. Originally created as a functional way to fit more into a small bathroom, designers have been creating wet rooms that feel more like spas. While most wet rooms are covered in tile and include an open shower, some may be surfaced in other waterproof materials, have a half-wall of glass by a shower, or include a bathtub with a separate drain. The biggest challenge of a wet room is ensuring that the entire room is securely waterproofed, and that the water flows into the room’s main drain. With the right materials and installation, a wet room can become a good return on investment. Keep reading to find out more about modern wet rooms.
I’ve always been fascinated by how wet rooms can make even a tiny bathroom feel luxurious. When done right, they’re like stepping into a private spa. But the key is in the details—proper waterproofing isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a must. For example, a study from the National Association of Home Builders shows that bathrooms with high-end features like wet rooms can boost a home’s appeal, especially in urban markets where space is tight. If you’re thinking about adding one, make sure to hire a contractor who knows their stuff—poor drainage can turn your dream bathroom into a moldy nightmare. A pro tip? Consider adding a sloped floor during installation. It’s a small tweak that ensures water flows right to the drain, saving you headaches down the line.
PRO: A wet room can create the feeling of a larger space.
Because the shower floor does not have a visible shower tray and the walls do not need a divider to contain shower water, the surface materials can continue seamlessly throughout the room. These unbroken surfaces help to make the bathroom look roomier. The elimination of transitions can make a bathroom easier to use for those who can no longer step into a tub or over a shower curb. Also, wet rooms can be easier to clean, because you can use the same types of cleaners on all of the surfaces.
I’ve seen firsthand how a wet room can make a cramped bathroom feel airy and open. The seamless look is a game-changer, especially for folks with mobility issues. My neighbor, who’s in her 70s, redid her bathroom as a wet room, and she swears it’s made her daily routine so much easier—no more stepping over a tub. Plus, cleaning is a breeze since you’re not juggling different surfaces. A quick tip: opt for larger tiles with fewer grout lines to enhance that spacious feel even more. Data from Houzz suggests that 68% of homeowners remodeling small bathrooms choose open designs like wet rooms to maximize perceived space. Just be sure to pick a high-quality sealant for those tiles—waterproofing is your best friend here.
CON: Everything gets wet.
With an open shower, it’s conceivable that water will splash around the room and get any towels, toiletries, and even toilet paper wet. And, the humidity that a traditional shower held now makes its way across the whole room. Excess moisture, sealing and waterproofing, and drainage are some of the top concerns in a wet room. If you’re considering a wet room and are worried about the entire room getting wet, you can install extra ventilation to help prevent mold and mildew. You also can incorporate in-wall storage for toilet paper, towels, and accessories to avoid dampness. Anti-slip flooring helps make it safer to walk around in a wet room and a radiant heat flooring system helps water evaporate more quickly from the floor surface.
Let’s be real—wet rooms can be a bit of a mess if you’re not prepared. I learned this the hard way when I stayed at a friend’s place with a wet room and accidentally soaked their spare towels! The open design means water can splash everywhere, so you’ve got to plan ahead. Installing a high-powered exhaust fan is a lifesaver—think something with at least 100 CFM (cubic feet per minute) to keep humidity in check. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency notes that proper ventilation can cut down on mold growth by up to 50%. I’d also recommend recessed storage niches for your toiletries; they keep things dry and look sleek. And don’t skip the radiant floor heating—it’s not just fancy, it actually helps dry the floor faster, which is a win for safety and maintenance.
PRO: Wet rooms can take many forms.
The main design rule when it comes to creating a wet room is making sure that the space is waterproof. Beyond that, there are seemingly endless possibilities for the bathroom’s shape, fixtures, and finishes. While some wet rooms are tiny spaces crammed with the essentials, some luxury bathrooms use a glass wall with a glass door to divide a bathroom into a wet room side (with shower, sink, and tub) and a non-wet room side. There also are wet room bathrooms that have a partial glass partition separating the shower from the toilet and sink.
The versatility of wet rooms is what makes them so exciting. Whether you’re working with a compact powder room or a sprawling master bath, there’s a wet room design that fits. I once saw a stunning wet room with a partial glass wall that made the space feel modern yet practical—the glass kept the toilet area dry without breaking up the open vibe. If you’re dreaming up your own design, consider mixing textures like matte tiles with polished stone for a custom look. According to a 2024 survey by the National Kitchen and Bath Association, 45% of homeowners opt for mixed-material finishes in wet rooms to add personality. Just make sure every material is sealed properly—waterproofing is non-negotiable. A practical tip? Add a handheld showerhead for extra flexibility, especially if you’re including a tub.
CON: Not all building materials can be used in a wet room.
Since a wet room needs to be waterproof, there is a limit on the types of materials and home decor used in the bathroom. Many opt for tiling the surfaces in a straightforward simple pattern, but mosaics, patterns, and inlays of other tiles or materials can be used. Other surface options include sealed concrete, stone, and metal. Even though wet rooms can still have bathtubs, they usually are only in larger wet rooms and are separate from the shower. They also benefit from a separate drain.
Choosing materials for a wet room can feel like a bit of a puzzle. I remember helping a friend pick tiles for their wet room, and we were shocked at how many “water-resistant” options weren’t actually up to snuff for constant exposure. Stick to non-porous materials like porcelain tiles or sealed natural stone—those are your safest bets. The Tile Council of North America says porcelain tiles have a water absorption rate of less than 0.5%, making them ideal for wet rooms. If you’re eyeing something like concrete, make sure it’s professionally sealed; otherwise, you’re asking for trouble. A quick tip: if you want to add some flair, try a mosaic accent wall, but keep the floor simple to avoid a cluttered look. And if you’re adding a tub, don’t skip that separate drain—it’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
PRO: It can raise the value of your property.
Remodeling an ensuite in the main bedroom or a secondary bathroom in a home can raise the value of a property. According to Remodeling’s Cost vs. Value Report, the renovation of a bathroom can have a return on investment of about 60 percent. Since many buyers tend to look at a high-end modern wet room and consider it a luxurious addition, it might recoup somewhat more at the time of sale.
A wet room can be a smart investment if you’re looking to boost your home’s value. I’ve seen friends sell their homes faster because buyers went gaga over their sleek wet room designs. The 60% ROI from Remodeling’s report is a solid benchmark, but in hot real estate markets, a well-executed wet room might push that even higher—think closer to 70% in places like San Francisco or New York. To maximize your return, focus on timeless finishes like neutral tiles or classic glass partitions that appeal to a wide range of buyers. A realtor I know suggests adding a few high-end touches, like a rainfall showerhead, to make the space feel indulgent without breaking the bank. Just don’t go too niche with your design—overly bold choices might not vibe with every buyer.
CON: Tiling a wet room can get expensive.
Unlike a traditional bathroom where occasional drips and spills may hit the walls and floors outside of a shower, the entire room will get wet. So, instead of simply tiling just the shower, the entire room needs tile. In some cases the ceiling is tiled, too. This process protects the structure and surrounding rooms from water damage and helps fend off mold and mildew in the wet room. Covering all of the surfaces in a waterproof material, like tile, from top to bottom can get expensive. The waterproofing applied underneath the tile also adds to the cost.
Tiling a wet room can definitely make your wallet wince. I helped a cousin plan her bathroom reno, and we were floored when the quote for full-room tiling came in—easily double what a standard shower would cost. The need for waterproofing underlayment, like a quality membrane, can add hundreds, if not thousands, to the bill. HomeAdvisor estimates that tiling a 100-square-foot wet room can run between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the tile quality. To keep costs in check, consider using affordable porcelain tiles for the bulk of the space and splurging on a small accent area with pricier mosaics. Also, shop around for contractors—some charge less for labor if you buy materials yourself. One last tip: don’t skimp on the waterproofing layer. It’s pricey, but it’s the backbone of a durable wet room.