Renovating a small bathroom can feel like playing a game of design Tetris. And there’s always that one big question, do you go with a shower or a bath?
One offers speed and practicality and the other, relaxation and a touch of luxury. The good news is, if your space is tight, you don’t necessarily have to choose between the two as a well planned bathroom renovation can deliver both. It’s all about smart design choices that optimise space without sacrificing style or comfort.
In many homes across North Brisbane and beyond, bathrooms are modest in size so trying to squeeze in a freestanding tub and a separate walk in shower might be a stretch (literally). But a combined shower/bath setup offers a practical and stylish compromise and one that doesn’t leave you feeling like you’ve had to settle.
The Combined Shower Bath is a Practical Solution
If you’re working with limited space, a combined shower and bath layout can be a game changer as it allows you to enjoy the quick convenience of a shower and the indulgence of a soak without cramming your bathroom or making it feel cluttered, with a drop-in or built-in bath being the most common solutions in these scenarios. Unlike a freestanding tub, which needs breathing space around it to really shine, a built-in bath sits snugly against the wall, making it a space efficient choice. You can then install a shower above the tub, creating a seamless dual-purpose area that feels considered and cohesive.
Stylish Additions to Further Enhance the Space
Just because the room is small doesn’t mean you have to play it safe with the design. The shower/bath area can become the focal point of the bathroom with just a few thoughtful features. One standout option is to use eye catching tiles behind the bath, perhaps a bold pattern or a calming natural texture so it draws the eye and makes the area feel curated rather than crammed.
Glass shower screens are another opportunity to enhance the aesthetic, therefore go for a frameless design to keep things open and airy or consider fluted glass for something more design forward that still offers a bit of privacy. Tapware also plays a big role. Sleek black, brushed brass or soft gunmetal finishes can all bring personality to the room. And to keep things tidy, a recessed wall niche is a small but mighty addition as this area will help declutter the bath edge, gives easy access to toiletries and keeps the space feeling open and organised.
Why It’s Worth Considering Both
Even in a small bathroom, including both a shower and a bath is often the most flexible choice for families. Having a bathtub is ideal for young children or even the family pet when the weather turns muddy. For others, the appeal lies in being able to wind down after a long day with a warm soak, something a quick shower just can’t replace.
And from a resale perspective, having a bath can be a strong selling point. Buyers with children or those who value a bit of relaxation in their routine often see it as a must-have. So if you’re renovating with the future in mind, this setup ticks multiple boxes.
So when space is limited, creativity and smart planning matter more than ever and by combining a shower and a bath into a single, stylish feature, you can have the best of both worlds all without compromising on comfort or aesthetics.