Bathrooms and wet rooms are more than just functional spaces; they’re key areas for design innovation, safety enhancements, and long-term usability. Whether you’re upgrading a family bathroom, designing a luxury en-suite, or creating a practical wet room space, making the right decisions on materials and layout makes all the difference.

However, combining bathroom beauty with a space that feels homely and practical can be a challenge. So, with that thought in mind, we spoke to Josh Jinks, brand manager at UltraTile, to explore five core principles to transform any bathroom or wet room into a modern, efficient, and safe space.

1. Pair style and function with thoughtful materials

Bathrooms are subject to daily wear and tear, moisture exposure, and rapid temperature changes. Choosing tiles that offer both style and functionality is vital – otherwise, you might find yourself dealing with a damp infestation that can easily get out of control. In which case, you might as well rip out the shiny new bathroom and start again at square one.

Non-slip, R11-rated matte tiles are a practical flooring choice that offer enhanced traction without sacrificing aesthetics. Combine these with durable, easy-clean grout and adhesive, and you’ve got a surface that’s both hygienic and low-maintenance. Grout is another overlooked part of bathroom design – the best grouts are available in various colours to add a considered finishing touch to your design.

2. Capture

Wet rooms are a great way to create a seamless feeling throughout your bathroom whilst also creating the pampered vibe of a spa.

Bathroom designs can easily become disjointed, particularly if you’re looking to add shower, bath and toilet functions. By removing traditional barriers like raised shower trays or bulky enclosures, you can let your wall and floor finishes sing and flow continuously throughout the space.

A wet room isn’t just about practicality – it helps deliver a minimalist, cohesive look that feels effortlessly clean.

3. Zoning and layout

Once you’ve decided whether you’re going for a bathroom or wet room, the next step is to consider the room’s zoning and layout. If it’s a wet room, you’re not likely to have the traditional shower enclosure that you might have in a normal bathroom.

Use subtle cues to help define wet and dry zones without breaking up any of the room’s visual unity. Think changes in tile direction, contrast lighting or changes in material texture – any of these will show through as you create a cultured, stylish bathroom.  

If you’ve opted for the standard bathroom route, using different materials altogether – like a combination of tiling and stained wood – can help add a really classy feeling.

4. Let there be light   

Lighting is one of the most overlooked aspects of bathroom design, though it’s particularly important since many bathrooms don’t have access to a great deal of natural light.

The golden rule is one of layered lighting, covering all bases for every occasion. General, ambient lighting is step one, setting a base tone, which will help maintain visibility at all times. Next, add focused ‘task lighting’ by mirrors and shower areas. Finally, accent lighting: decorative additions that help add a little extra depth and warmth, such as below mirrors or baths.

Using all three lighting formats will prevent harsh shadows and contrasts, which can become disorienting. It’ll also make your bathroom feel homely, avoiding that bright, sterile quality associated with public bathrooms.

5. Add the final touches with fixtures and features

Now that you’ve taken care of the big picture considerations, like adjusting the feng shui of your bathroom, it’s time to consider the little details. Lever taps, wall-mounted vanities, and minimalist flush plates not only elevate the aesthetic but also improve ease of use.

In the most-stylish bathrooms, each and every element is considered, from your door handles to the colour of your grout. So, don’t stop at the big picture. Let the little changes build to have a huge impact on your bathroom’s design.  

From robust waterproofing systems to non-slip tiles and adhesives that stand the test of time, bathroom and wet room design hinges on choosing the right materials and treating each and every aspect of your bathroom’s design with the same care and consideration as the rest of your home.

Simple!