Installing a wet room is the perfect way to make a small bathroom feel more open and expansive. A minimalist design allows you to create a truly tranquil and elevated space. The added benefit of a minimalist design is its inherent tranquillity. The minimal aesthetic cuts down on clutter, both physical and visual, turning your wet room into a serene sanctuary.
Bringing the two together, however, can be a challenge, and minimalist wet rooms can easily end up feeling too stark and functional. To avoid this, you can include a statement piece like a Japanese Toilets or a unique ceiling mounted shower head that blends form and function seamlessly.
That’s why we’ve created this complete guide to wetroom ideas for small bathrooms. It’s full of pictures and should leave you feeling inspired and ready to go! Minimalism and functionality need not be mutually exclusive; when applied creatively, they can coexist in a small space, giving you a bathroom that's both practical and beautiful.
1. Go all glass
While the classic wet room has no shower screen or enclosure, you can create the illusion of extra space in a small bathroom by installing a glass screen. This not only looks seamless and stylish but acts as a functional barrier to contain water while maintaining a sense of openness and accessibility.
If you're feeling bold, consider textured or tinted glass for an additional layer of style without compromising the minimalist aesthetic.
By separating out wet and dry spaces, you can elevate your bathroom experience. For example, you could shower in one section and then get ready in another or separate your toilet for added hygiene.
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2. Choose wall-mounted fixtures
Wall-mounted fixtures are the perfect addition to a small, minimalist wet room because they allow you to free up floor space and remove clutter. And there’s so much choice out there depending on which minimalist style you are looking to implement.
Wall-mounted fixtures aren't just functional; they are also an artful way to express personal style within a limited space.
Opt for mirrored cabinets for additional functionality or choose a long cabinet if you want to maintain a sleek appearance. You can also add a shower niche or shelf to provide a touch of thoughtful detail and sophistication.
Going a step further, integrated LED lighting within the fixtures can accentuate their form and function, so this is a great option for a small space.
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3. Implement under-floor heating
Under-floor heating is especially valuable when you're dealing with a limited room as it eliminates the need for bulky radiators or heating fixtures. By installing it, you also add an air of luxury to any space, turning a simple wet room into something that feels more like a spa. Beyond luxury, under-floor heating has health benefits too; it’s a dust-free and allergen-free way to heat your space.
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4. Opt for a back-to-wall toilet
Back-to-wall toilets have a hidden cistern and plumbing system, ensuring a streamlined and uncluttered appearance. While wall-hung loos are elevated off the ground, back-to-wall loos sit directly on the floor. They are a favourite choice for modern wet rooms due to their design where only the toilet bowl is noticeable. This sleek design not only minimises visual clutter but also offers easier cleaning, resulting in a tidier, more spacious-looking room.
5. Add large format tiles
Large format tiles offer a sense of visual space, even in a smaller room. When opting for a wet room, stone and tile can be seamlessly integrated into the grating, ensuring an expansive aesthetic. Moreover, using fewer tiles translates to fewer joints, giving your wet room a cleaner, more unified appearance. It's worth noting that we provide waterproof membranes within our wet room packs, but for those seeking added reassurance, these membranes are also available separately for that extra peace of mind.
As Creative Director Roisin Lafferty describes, it’s also “a case of the less grout, the better in wet rooms for longevity and cleanliness.” So large format tiles are the perfect choice if you want something low-maintenance. In the realm of interior design, larger tiles are known to create a roomier, more open feel, which is perfect for a small bathroom.
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6. Go monochrome
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A monochrome or matte black design can complement a minimalist wet room by emphasising simplicity. The absence of colour removes visual clutter whilst creating an unparalleled sense of elegance.
What’s more, even smaller fixtures can create a cohesive, sophisticated statement when used in a small space. For example, you could introduce matte black towel bars to elevate your wet room’s look. These seemingly small details make a big difference in creating a harmonious space.
7. Maximise natural light
Natural light is key to creating a sense of spaciousness in a small, minimalist wet room. And you can increase it by:
- Installing larger windows or adding a skylight
- Using light-reflective tiles and materials such as those with glossy or glass finishes
- Positioning mirrors strategically — for example, placing a large one on the wall opposite the shower area
Besides making the space feel larger, natural light can boost your mood and help regulate your circadian rhythm, making for a healthier, happier living space.
Ready to create your own seamless design? Optimise your small bathroom with St John’s easy-drain, easy-install wet room-in-a-box. Explore your design ideas and create your own minimalist haven today!
