Shower, Bath or Both?

If you’re planning a new bathroom, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to install a bath, a shower, or both. Modern bathrooms often prioritise practicality and space, but comfort and relaxation still play an important role too.

We spoke with our bathroom design experts about the key things to consider before making your choice.

Why More Homes Are Choosing Showers

In recent years, many homeowners have opted to replace traditional baths with showers. While a bath can be essential for families with young children, once those children grow up the bath often becomes less frequently used.

Showers offer several advantages. They typically use less water, take up less space and are quicker for everyday routines, making them ideal for busy households.

They can also be more accessible. Walk-in designs and models with built-in seating can make showering easier for people with limited mobility. At the same time, modern shower designs have become an important style feature in many bathrooms, with sleek glass panels and minimalist fittings creating a contemporary look.

Consider Your Water System First

Before choosing a shower, it’s important to understand the type of boiler or water system in your home.

Your system determines the water pressure available, which in turn affects which types of showers will work properly. Some showers require higher pressure to perform well, so it’s worth checking this early in the planning process with your installer or bathroom designer.

Think Carefully About Space

The available space in your bathroom will strongly influence your choice of bath or shower.

Showers are often the most practical solution for smaller bathrooms or en-suites, as they can be fitted neatly into corners or alcoves. Careful planning of layout is essential so that you still have enough room to move comfortably around the space.

Older homes in the UK often have smaller bathrooms, so choosing the right size and shape of shower enclosure can help maximise available space without making the room feel cramped.

Popular Shower Styles

There are several different shower styles to consider, depending on the look and layout you want.

Enclosure showers remain one of the most common options. These usually include a shower tray, glass enclosure and shower unit. They can be framed or frameless, with frameless designs creating a more minimalist look.

Walk-in showers have become increasingly popular in modern bathrooms. These feature large glass panels with open entry space and minimal framing, creating a spacious and contemporary feel.

For compact bathrooms, quadrant showers with curved fronts are often a good choice. Their rounded design helps save space while still offering a comfortable showering area.

Another option is a wet room, where the entire bathroom floor is designed to drain water. Wet rooms create a sleek, open look but require specialist installation and suitable flooring beneath the surface.

Choosing the Right Shower Doors

If you opt for an enclosure, the door style can make a big difference to practicality.

• Pivot doors open outward and are simple to use but require clear floor space.

• Sliding doors don’t swing outwards, making them ideal for tighter spaces.

• Bi-fold doors fold inward to create extra access space and can be useful in smaller bathrooms.

Considering how the door opens within your layout will help ensure the space works comfortably in everyday use.

The Enduring Appeal of a Bath

Despite the growing popularity of showers, baths remain a much-loved feature in many homes.

A bath offers something showers cannot — the opportunity to relax and unwind. Whether it’s a long soak at the end of the day or a practical option for bathing children, a bath can still play an important role in family homes.

Baths also come in a wide variety of materials, including acrylic, steel, cast iron and even stone, allowing you to tailor the design to your bathroom style.

Freestanding vs Fitted Baths

If you have the space, a freestanding bath can become a striking centrepiece. These baths are accessible from all sides and are available in both traditional claw-foot styles and sleek modern designs.

However, freestanding baths usually require more complex plumbing and floor preparation, which can increase installation costs.

A fitted bath, placed against a wall or into a corner, is the most common choice in UK homes. It takes up less space and is typically simpler to install.

Corner baths are another space-saving option, although their shape can sometimes make the bathing area feel slightly smaller.

Single or Double Ended Baths

Another detail to consider is the position of the taps.

Single ended baths have taps at one end, meaning you normally lie facing away from them.

Double ended baths place the taps in the centre, allowing you to recline comfortably from either end — ideal for a more relaxed bathing experience.

Tap and Brassware Styles

The style and placement of taps can also influence the overall design of your bathroom.

• Deck mounted taps sit directly on the bath edge and are common in traditional designs.

• Wall mounted taps are fitted into the wall above the bath, creating a clean, uncluttered look.

• Floor mounted taps are often paired with freestanding baths and create a striking contemporary feature.

Why Not Have Both?

If space allows, combining a bath and shower offers the best of both worlds.

A shower bath allows you to enjoy the practicality of a quick shower while still having the option of a relaxing soak. These designs are especially popular in smaller bathrooms where fitting both separately isn’t possible.

Every bathroom is different, and the best solution depends on your space, lifestyle and personal preferences. Careful planning at the design stage ensures your bathroom not only looks beautiful but works perfectly for everyday living.