Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

HiB awarded Cyber Essentials Accreditation

January 23, 2025

HiB, one of the UK’s leading bathroom manufacturers, has been awarded the Cyber Essentials Accreditation. This recognition is a testament to the company’s commitment to ensuring they provide the highest standard of service to their customers, keeping sensitive details secure from cyber-attacks.

The Cyber Essentials Accreditation is a Government-backed programme created by the National Cyber Security Centre that helps organisations protect themselves from cyber-attacks. The certification is awarded to businesses that have implemented a set of technical controls that protect their business against a wide variety of the most common attacks so they can continue to do business online without threats from cyber criminals.

Justin Mason, information technology manager at HiB, comments “Over the past few years, HiB has invested significantly in its IT infrastructure, with the scale of changes made it’s important that the security matches our investment, and this certificate shows that our efforts have paid off. It gives a clear signal to our customers and suppliers alike that we take our IT security and their data seriously. This certification is not our final destination, we must and will continue to enhance our security systems and processes to combat ever emerging IT threats.”

“We want to set a standard for excellence in our industry and encourage others to raise the bar with us! Fostering safer ways to do business can help elevate the sector and shape a more responsible industry.”

As part of HiB’s ongoing commitment to innovation and consumer satisfaction, it will continue to invest in creative solutions, technologies, and practices going forward. This will ensure that HiB continues to meet and challenge ever-evolving cyber threats, extending its mission to improve the lives of people, partners, and wider communities beyond its bathrooms.

For more information about HiB visit hib.co.uk.

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WOW!house announces the first release of global WOW!house designers for 2025

January 23, 2025

WOW!house is back for 30 glorious days in summer 2025. Created from the ground up at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, this award-winning 600 sq m showhouse has become a must-see destination for visitors from all corners of the globe.

The exciting month-long event (3 June – 3 July 2025) will feature the original vision of 20 world-class interior designers and architects working in collaboration with internationally renowned design brands. Global A-listers and rising stars alike create 21 full-size rooms and outdoor spaces that reflect the zeitgeist and influence design directions for years to come.

Since WOW!house first opened its doors in 2022, the concept has continued to evolve each year, reflecting the highest standards of creativity and allowing visitors the rare chance to immerse themselves in extraordinary spaces by world-class designers. The show also celebrates a sincere commitment to philanthropy, raising funds and awareness for worthwhile charities.

“WOW!house brings our worldwide design community together, sparking conversations, building relationships and sharing knowledge,” says Claire German, CEO of Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. “It’s a testament to a moment where creativity and philanthropy are celebrated and encouraged. We cannot wait to reveal more incredible spaces for 2025.”

NEW FOR 2025

Behind a taller and more imposing entrance, rooms never seen before at WOW!house will include an innovative Media Room, a multi-purpose mud room (the Sims Hilditch Courtyard Room) as chic as chic can be, and an enticing Snug. The front terrace has added square footage – and kerb appeal.

For the first time ever, WOW!house has a paint sponsor. In addition to sponsoring a room of its own, Benjamin Moore will bring colour into every space in the house.

THE 2025 LINE-UP

Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour is delighted to announce the first release of global WOW!house sponsors and designers for 2025. More names and additional spaces will be announced on 10 March during London Design Week 2025.

Cox London Entrance Hall by Victoria Davar of Maison Artefact

Nucleus Media Room by Alex Dauley

Fortuny + Bonacina + Barovier&Toso Primary Bedroom by Tomèf Design

House of Rohl Primary Bathroom by 1508 London

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WaterMark to join WIAPS in 2025

January 23, 2025

Water Regs UK and Severn Trent have announced that WaterMark, an Approved Contractor Scheme currently run by Severn Trent and Hafren Dyfrdwy, will be joining the Water Industry Approved Plumbers’ Scheme (WIAPS) from 1st April 2025. This move will bring WaterMark members into the UK’s largest approved contractor scheme, managed by Water Regs UK on behalf of 15 water companies. The transition will enhance the recognition and reach of approved plumbing professionals while also making it easier for consumers to find qualified contractors.

WIAPS, the largest of the UK’s approved contractor schemes, accredits qualified plumbers and sector professionals, including supply pipe installers (groundworkers), who comply with the Water Fittings Regulations. For current WaterMark members, this transition will be seamless. They will be able to transfer their membership to WIAPS, subject to meeting the scheme’s requirements and completing a WIAPS application. Members who are already registered with WaterSafe will retain their membership under the new system, subject to any terms and conditions.

For installers, joining WIAPS means broader recognition across the UK, eliminating the need for multiple memberships and offering a more streamlined, cost-effective process. This shift ensures that plumbing professionals will continue to be acknowledged by water companies and trade associations nationwide. For consumers, WIAPS will simplify the process of finding qualified plumbers who meet strict regulatory standards, ensuring a reliable and compliant service for their plumbing needs.

Julie Spinks, Managing Director at Water Regs UK, commented on the transition, saying, “We are thrilled to welcome WaterMark members into the WIAPS family. This integration will streamline the approval process for installers, providing them with broader recognition and saving them the hassle and cost of maintaining multiple memberships.

“Combining these schemes under WIAPS not only benefits installers but also simplifies the landscape for consumers. It ensures higher standards and better protection for drinking water across the UK.”

Lee Rawlings, Water Fittings Regulations Manager at Severn Trent, said, “This move allows Severn Trent to focus more on enforcement and protecting our customers while continuing to ensure that high standards are maintained among our contractors.”

This transition is a significant step towards unifying and enhancing plumbing practices across the UK, providing better service for contractors and consumers.

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The rise of multigenerational living by Fitzroy of London

January 22, 2025

As designers embrace the benefits of multigenerational living, interior design is adapting to accommodate the needs of households spanning three or more generations under one roof. According to Fitzroy of London, among the most innovative and essential transformations is the emergence of multigenerational bathrooms, specifically designed to serve diverse needs and improve accessibility for family members of any age

Multigenerational living is on the rise, with recent reports suggesting around 1.8 million households now contain two or more generations, a substantial increase of 38% in just 10 years. This has been largely driven by economic considerations, cultural traditions and the desire for closer family connections.

These households often include ageing parents, adult children, and grandchildren, creating a unique need for shared spaces. Bathrooms, one of the most frequently used areas in the home, have become a focal point for innovative design solutions.

Multigenerational bathrooms prioritise functionality, comfort, and accessibility, with key features such as universal design and built-in washroom accessories. Incorporating elements such as wheelchair-accessible showers, non-slip flooring, grab bars, hinged support rails, backrests and shower seats will ensure safety for older family members whilst maintaining a stylish, contemporary and cohesive aesthetic.

With a focus on fulfilling as many user needs as possible, multigenerational design is slowly becoming ‘the new normal’ in homes and hotel environments alike.

Craig Anderson, managing director of Fitzroy of London, comments: “We anticipate significant growth and innovation in inclusive bathroom design over the coming years. Key trends we expect to see include the increased integration of smart technology, stylish and design-led accessibility products that seamlessly blend with high-end aesthetics, a greater emphasis on sensory-friendly design elements to accommodate neurodiversity, advancements in materials and surfaces that enhance safety without compromising on style, and more flexible and modular design solutions which can easily adapt to changing needs over time.

The team at Fitzroy of London believes exquisite bathrooms and washrooms should be available to everyone, regardless of age or ability. Specialising in luxury accessible bathroom products, the company offers designers the freedom to create innovative and inspiring spaces without compromising inclusivity.

Craig Anderson also says: “The shift toward multigenerational bathrooms reflects broader trends in interior design, prioritising flexibility and functionality. Many designers are incorporating bathroom layouts which can be easily updated as needs evolve. Homeowners and hotel owners require spaces that not only look beautiful but also make everyday routines easier for everyone.”

Fitzroy of London is at the forefront of designing and building innovative, functional bathrooms for today’s modern world. With expertise in multigenerational living solutions, the company creates spaces which are aesthetically pleasing whilst honouring individual needs.

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Hyatt announces plans to add hotels in Europe, Africa & Middle East

January 22, 2025

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced that Hyatt’s current pipeline across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East (EAME) is set to expand its brand presence in 13 new markets where there are no Hyatt hotels currently between 2025 and 2028.

These significant expansion plans follow a strong year for Hyatt in the EAME region. According to Hyatt’s Q3 2024 earnings, Hyatt hotels in Europe reported growth across key metrics: RevPAR (+12.1%), ADR (+5.8%), and occupancy (+3.8%). In the resort segment, Net Package RevPAR grew by more than 14%, fueled by Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection properties in Spain, Greece, Portugal, and Bulgaria, underscoring Hyatt’s strength in the category.

“Since 2017, we have strategically expanded our global portfolio by nearly 90% to over 1,350 properties. It is inspiring to see the EAME region continue to thoughtfully add hotels in markets that matter most to our guests, World of Hyatt members, customers, owners, and investors,” said Mark Hoplamazian, president and chief Executive Officer, Hyatt.

“Our accelerated expansion is a testament to Hyatt’s strength in luxury, lifestyle, and all-inclusive hospitality. As we continue to deliver on our promise of intentional growth, we are confident in the continued bright future ahead across the EAME region.”

Hyatt’s pipeline in EAME includes projects set to debut in new European and African markets like Estonia, Iceland, Romania, Cape Verde, and Mauritius, alongside previously revealed luxury and lifestyle properties such as Park Hyatt Johannesburg, Miraval The Red Sea, Andaz Doha, and Andaz Lisbon – all part of Hyatt’s plans to add 50 new hotels in these segments globally by 2026.

As of September 30, 2024, Hyatt’s portfolio in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East spans over 200 properties and 45,000+ rooms across 40+ countries, having tripled its room count in Europe since 2017.

Spain: A Key Growth Market for Hyatt

Hyatt’s portfolio in Spain has expanded significantly over the last five years, growing from four hotels with just over 1,000 rooms in 2020 to 55 hotels spanning more than 14,500 rooms as of December 31, 2024. Hyatt’s success can largely be attributed to inorganic growth through strategic acquisitions, including all-inclusive pioneer Apple Leisure Group in 2021, lifestyle hospitality company Standard International in 2024 – which brought The Standard, Ibiza to Hyatt – and the strategic joint venture with Spanish Grupo Piñero completed last month, which added five Bahia Principe branded properties to Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection in Europe.

“Spain represents our largest market in EAME, and Hyatt is committed to expanding its portfolio in leisure, luxury, and lifestyle segments, across coastal destinations, islands and major and secondary cities,” said Javier Águila, Group President EAME, Hyatt.

According to the May 2024 UNWTO World Tourism Barometer^[1], Spain remains the second-largest market globally for international tourist arrivals, with 85.2 million visitors in 2023, and for tourism receipts, generating $92 billion in revenue from inbound international tourists.

Hyatt’s pipeline in Spain includes the highly anticipated Thompson Sevilla, which will bring one of Hyatt’s most iconic lifestyle brands to Spain’s fourth-largest city by 2026.

Leisure Growth Momentum Across Latin America and the Caribbean

In addition to EAME, Latin America and the Caribbean remain a key priority for Hyatt with growth fueled by robust leisure travel and bolstered by the recently completed strategic joint venture with Grupo Piñero. The 50/50 joint venture resulted in 21 Bahia Principe branded resorts across the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Jamaica and Spain, as well as the exclusive Cayo Levantado Resort in the Dominican Republic, joining Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection portfolio, representing the addition of approximately 12,000 rooms and increasing Hyatt’s all-inclusive rooms portfolio by 30%.

In 2024, Hyatt added iconic resorts such as Secrets Playa Mujeres Costa Mujeres, Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort and The Legend Paracas Resort, which is part of the Destination by Hyatt brand, alongside non-resort properties like Hyatt Centric Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic and Hyatt Centric Playa del Carmen in Mexico.

Hyatt’s pipeline in the Caribbean includes notable openings planned for the first half of 2025 including Hyatt Regency Panama City, Hotel La Compañía del Valle, which is part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, Park Hyatt Los Cabos at Cabo del Sol and Secrets Baby Beach Aruba, among others.

For more information or to book a stay, please visit hyatt.com.

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or

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ritmonio solutions help transform industrial bakery into modern home

January 21, 2025

A former industrial building that once housed various production activities has been lovingly transformed into a contemporary family home in the heart of the province of Naples. The redevelopment project was masterminded by architects Arch. Emilia Abate and Arch. Francesco Rotondale of Studio 74ram, offers a perfect blend of industrial charm and modern living. This project demonstrates how repurposing a space can bring new life, creating a welcoming and functional environment for its inhabitants.

The property, which was originally an industrial bakery, faces the road with its entrance but opens up entirely to a shared garden and swimming pool, which is used by two other families. The design layout integrates the home’s living areas on the first floor, featuring a spacious kitchen with direct access to the patio. In contrast, the living room offers a more intimate atmosphere, highlighted by a large brick fireplace. The industrial legacy of the building can still be seen in the squared casings, large windows, and use of raw materials like concrete. However, these elements have been thoughtfully adapted to meet the needs of the contemporary family living within.

A key part of this transformation is the inclusion of ritmonio’s high-quality solutions, which have played a vital role in redefining the bathroom spaces. The use of Diametro35 in Black and Reverso in Chrome finishes adds a sophisticated and industrial flair that complements the overall design narrative. These faucets and showerheads create a sensory experience that enhances the home’s tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect place for relaxation and self-care. The combination of striking aesthetics and functional design ensures that the bathroom environments are not only visually appealing but also highly durable, providing lasting value for years to come.

Both Diametro35 in Black finish and Reverso in Chrome are celebrated for their versatility. They effortlessly fit into a range of contemporary interior styles. Their modern, minimalist lines offer a perfect balance between form and function, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of modern living. The high-quality materials used in their construction guarantee both longevity and exceptional performance, making them a natural choice for this high-end renovation.

Upstairs, the master bedroom provides a luxurious retreat, complete with a walk-in closet and a hammam-equipped bathroom. A corner balcony offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, while the children’s mirrored bedrooms feature coordinated bathrooms and open onto a shared terrace. The space also features an indoor garden, connecting seamlessly with the outdoor garden and pool area, further enhancing the home’s connection with nature.

The open-plan living area also incorporates functional zoning, with the double-height space allowing for clear division between different zones. The large teak wall with open and closed shelving divides the living and study areas, while an impressive iron and glass chandelier hangs over the dining table. The lower level includes a relaxation area, complete with a sandstone fireplace, creating a warm and inviting environment for the family to unwind. A custom-made desk runs along the windowsill in the study, offering a serene workspace. The ground floor is further enhanced by a large bathroom and laundry room, both finished in microcement, maintaining the industrial feel.

This project showcases a sensitive and respectful design approach, balancing the preservation of the building’s original industrial elements with the creation of a modern, comfortable home. By integrating ritmonio’s innovative design solutions, the architects have successfully fused contemporary style with enduring quality, making the Homoffice project a prime example of how industrial spaces can be transformed into stylish, functional family homes.

For more information, visit www.ritmonio.it.

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Pop up my bathroom: the future of bathroom design at ISH 2025

January 17, 2025

At ISH 2025 in Frankfurt (March 17-21), Pop Up My Bathroom will return to showcase the latest bathroom trends, creative concepts, and innovative designs for the bathroom as a key living space. Now in its 16th year, ISH is set to inspire architects, bathroom planners, and design enthusiasts with ideas in sustainability, design, and functionality.

The bathroom as a holistic living space

For ISH 2025, the spotlight is on the evolving role of the bathroom in modern homes. Pop Up My Bathroom, located in Hall 3.1 (Stand D71), will transform the bathroom into a holistic living space. The exhibition will feature innovative designs integrating walls, floors, lighting, materials, and bathroom fixtures into a unified aesthetic. Trend researcher Frank A. Reinhardt has curated the exhibition to highlight the latest in bathroom interior design and planning.

Key bathroom trends: sustainability, comfort, and wellness

Pop Up My Bathroom will focus on the future of bathroom design, particularly sustainability, resource conservation, and well-being. Visitors will discover how tomorrow’s bathroom can blend functionality with comfort, wellness, and style. Industry giants like Axor, Duravit, Villeroy & Boch, and Hansgrohe will showcase their latest innovations, illustrating how modern bathrooms meet the growing demand for eco-conscious and user-centric spaces.

People-centered bathroom design

A major theme at Pop Up My Bathroom 2025 is user-centric design. The exhibition will explore how bathroom spaces must be designed with users’ needs at the forefront. Whether it’s for self-care, fitness, mental health, or simply daily routines, the bathroom is increasingly viewed as an essential part of home wellness. By focusing on human-scale design, Pop Up My Bathroom will highlight how thoughtful planning can transform bathrooms into true living spaces.

Talks and panels at the Design Plaza

The accompanying Design Plaza lecture programme in Hall 3.1 will feature expert talks, roundtable discussions, and presentations on bathroom design trends, sustainability, and user experience. Curated by key industry players such as VDS, VDMA, World Architects, Stylepark, and Architonic, the programme will offer valuable insights for architects, designers, and planners.

Bathroom design insights

For those unable to attend ISH 2025 in person, Pop Up My Bathroom provides a wealth of information via its online platform at www.pop-up-my-bathroom.de. This 24/7 resource reaches over 650,000 design professionals annually, offering exclusive trends, product updates, and expert advice on creating the bathroom of the future.

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From KUBA with Love…

January 16, 2025

PJH’s Bathrooms to Love Collection has welcomed a luxurious new modular furniture family to its ever-expanding bathroom furniture range called KUBA.

Presented in a warm textured oak finish, this wall-hung range embraces the popular ‘natural’ trend, boasting soft vertical fluting, curved edges and a clean handleless design. KUBA’s tactile oak-effect ribbed finish is perfect for helping to create a tranquil, spa-inspired bathroom space, combined with other au-naturel materials and colourways, such as the marble-effect flooring, sage green tiles and green foliage as pictured.

Available in a selection of units, the KUBA family includes three wall-hung basin cabinets and one wall-hung tall unit. Basin units include a generously sized, integrated white ceramic basin with a deep spacious drawer and are available in 500mm, 605mm and 805mm widths, with a depth of 460mm. The tall unit features two handy shelves, and all units are designed with beautifully carved soft curved edges with that appealing texture.

The KUBA range offers plenty of practical storage space to keep bathrooms organised, and being wall-hung, has a zero-floor footprint to keep bathroom spaces open and spacious. All KUBA units are specified with soft-close fittings for an ultra-smooth operation and excellent durability, and the range comes with a 5-year guarantee.

Shown here with matching Brushed Bronze brassware and accessories, Bathrooms to Love enables designers to coordinate metallic finishes for streamlined good looks, by offering comprehensive choices of taps, showers, mirrors, screens, radiators and even wastes in the same finishes. The Brushed Bronze choice here complements KUBA’s textured oak finish perfectly, adding warm copper undertones for a refined and sophisticated theme.

Available to order for Next Day Delivery from PJH, the stunning KUBA range comes with competitive display deals, product swatches and a package of showroom support. This includes QR codes with AR links for customer’s to view KUBA in their own space, as well as this engaging video: KUBA by BTL.

Bathrooms to Love by PJH: T: 0800 8 77 88 99 / www.partners.pjh.uk / www.bathroomstolove.uk

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How to transform the bathroom into a Zen paradise in 2025

January 16, 2025

GRAFF, leaders in luxury brassware, and Cosentino, leaders in sustainable surfaces, share their advice on incorporating wabi-sabi and Japandi minimalism to achieve the ultimate spathroom aesthetic.

2024 saw the rise of the ‘spathroom’, with homeowners looking to spa design for interior inspiration in their own home. The bathroom remains a place to reset, relax and indulge, with the spathroom remaining a mainstay in interior design.

In 2025, the spathroom takes inspiration from wabi-sabi – the ancient Japanese philosophy that encourages us to find the beauty in simplicity – and Japandi minimalism, combining the “less-is-more” aesthetic of Japanese and Scandinavian interior design.

When it comes to brassware, Ziggy Kulig, CEO of GRAFF, advises: “Our everyday lives are stressful, and the bathroom has become a refuge where we can unwind and recharge at the end of the day. Pared-back Japandi design and interiors that embrace wabi-sabi have, unsurprisingly, become popular as we seek to eliminate clutter and create a retreat that makes us feel at ease.

“Japandi and wabi-sabi design ethos emphasises minimalism and clean lines: in the bathroom, look to GRAFF’s M.E. collection, which features sleek, modern lines and an organic silhouette that complements the simplicity and minimalist aesthetic associated with Japanese design. Prioritise elegant finishes such as solid brass or brushed nickel to enhance the natural wood, stone and biophilic colours synonymous with Japandi and wabi-sabi interiors.”

For bathroom surfaces, look to natural stones and textures for inspiration, says Katie Parry Stone, Retail Manager at Cosentino UK. “Wabi-sabi and Japandi interiors are known for their ‘less is more’ approach, so it’s important to prioritise bathroom surfaces that create a minimalist yet characterful backdrop. This design ethos is also known for its use of organic finishes, variety of texture, and natural colour palette, in order to embrace imperfections and bring personality to otherwise pared-back spaces.

“Cosentino’s new Dekton Pietra Edition range is perfect for wabi-sabi spaces; inspired by natural stone, including limestone and marble, Dekton Pietra Edition embraces the natural beauty of stone with authentic texture, subtle imperfections and earthy tones. Or look to the lighter marble colourways from Silestone Le Chic, such as Eclectic Pearl: a soft white with warm grey marbling, which embraces the irregularities of natural marble for a luxurious feel whilst still providing a muted and tranquil finish that encapsulates Japanese minimalism.”

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10 things you need to know about bathroom wall panels

January 16, 2025

Bathroom wall panels are a stylish and practical alternative to traditional tiles, offering a sleek and modern finish. If you’re considering bathroom wall panels for your renovation or new build, there are several key factors to keep in mind. From the materials and installation process to maintenance tips and aesthetic choices, understanding the ins and outs of wall panels can ensure a long-lasting and beautiful bathroom upgrade.

Here are 10 things you need to know about bathroom wall panels, including their benefits, types, and how they compare to tiles. Whether you’re after durability, ease of cleaning, or design flexibility, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

10 Things You Need to Know About Bathroom Wall Panels

Bathroom wall panels are a stylish and practical alternative to traditional tiles, offering a sleek and modern finish. If you’re considering bathroom wall panels for your renovation or new build, there are several key factors to keep in mind. From the materials and installation process to maintenance tips and aesthetic choices, understanding the ins and outs of wall panels can ensure a long-lasting and beautiful bathroom upgrade.

Here are 10 essential things you need to know about bathroom wall panels, including their benefits, types, and how they compare to tiles. Whether you’re after durability, ease of cleaning, or design flexibility, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

1) Do bathroom wall panels come in different styles and finishes?

“At Wetwall, we offer bathroom wall panels in a wide variety of styles, colours, and finishes, including options that mimic the look of tiles, stone, marble, or wood. This allows for a broad range of design possibilities. When choosing a style, consider the overall aesthetic of your bathroom, as well as how the panel’s texture and finish will interact with lighting and other materials in the space.

2) Are bathroom wall panels better than tiles?

“Unlike traditional tiles, bathroom wall panels are grout-free, making them quicker to install and easier to clean, significantly reducing the time and effort needed to maintain a pristine look. This eliminates common issues like mould and cracking associated with grout. Wetwall’s panel systems are designed to be 100% waterproof*, protecting the underlying walls from moisture damage caused by splashes and condensation. The seamless installation process appeals to those seeking a quick refresh of their space without the mess and downtime of traditional tiling. They are often more cost-effective and can provide a modern aesthetic with less upkeep.

*When installed as per Wetwall’s installation guidance, using Wilsonart Complete Adhesive and Sealant and profiles where relevant.

3) Which types of bathroom panels are waterproof?

“Most modern bathroom wall panels are designed to be waterproof. Look for panels made from PVC, aluminium, or high-quality laminate, which are specifically engineered to withstand moisture. Thanks to their waterproof composite core, panels like Wetwall’s Elite Panels protect underlying walls from moisture damage caused by splashes and condensation, as long as they have been installed and maintained correctly. It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines to ensure the panels provide the best protection against water damage.

4) How durable are bathroom wall panels?

“Unlike tiles, bathroom wall panels are grout-free, making them easy to clean and maintain for ultimate longevity. All panels in Wetwall’s Elite collection feature fast-fit tongue and groove joints alongside sleek post-formed edges, resulting in a trim-free installation that boasts a lifetime product guarantee (an industry leading offering), giving any homeowner much-needed peace of mind that their investment is protected for life when considering a bathroom upgrade. What’s more, shower panels are far more hygienic due to their ability to minimise common maintenance problems associated with grout, such as mildew and mould. It’s also worth noting that high-quality panels can resist impacts and scratches better than tiles, but cheaper options might show wear sooner.

5) Can wall panels be installed over existing tiles?

“In many cases, bathroom wall panels can be installed directly over existing tiles. Ensure the existing tiles are clean, intact, and level. Use a suitable adhesive to secure the panels and seal all edges to prevent water ingress. This can save the time and effort involved with removing old tiles.

“However, before going ahead, ensure the tiles are adhered to walls, and there are no underlying issues like dampness, or structural problems that could affect the new installation. Any loose tiles must be removed, filled and sanded smooth. Wipe wall surfaces with a damp cloth and leave to dry prior to installation.

6) Are specialist tools required to install bathroom wall panels?

“When it comes to the installation of bathroom wall panels, the process really couldn’t be simpler. They can be measured, cut, and installed quickly and easily with the same basic tools you’d use to cut standard wood-based materials. This offers an innovative solution for new build installations, a quick home-project refresh, or even a more detailed renovation; the achievable look promises to be sleek, modern, and of the highest quality finish. While basic tools are sufficient, having precise measurement tools and a steady hand is essential to achieve a professional-looking standard, especially when cutting around fixtures like pipes and windows.

“To install bathroom wall panels, you’ll need a pencil, tape measure, drill, heavy-duty caulking gun, hole saw, level circular saw with a fine-tooth blade, square chalk-line, heavy-duty suction cups, router, methylated spirit alcohol and wooden shims.

7) How do you clean and maintain bathroom wall panels?

“Wetwall panels are low-maintenance and easy to clean using a mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads that could damage the surface. Regular cleaning with non-abrasive products will keep your panels looking fresh and new for longer. For tougher stains, a diluted vinegar solution can be effective without harming the panel’s surface. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to maintain the warranty.

8) What is the average cost of bathroom panels?

“The price of bathroom panels varies depending on material, design, and size. For a complete installation, costs will also include fitting and additional supplies such as adhesive, trims, and sealants. It’s important to consider not just the material cost but also the installation time, labour, and the long-term maintenance. Wetwall bathroom panels are quick and simple to install, often complete in half a day, whereas tile installation is tedious and time consuming and can take over 2 days.

9) How are bathroom wall panels made watertight?

“Follow the installation guidelines of the manufacturers panels, panels made from a waterproof composite core, aluminium or PVC are waterproof. Make sure you adhere the panel to the wall using the recommended adhesive and ensure all seams and edges are properly sealed with silicone sealant to prevent water leakage. Pay special attention to corners, joints, and areas around fixtures where water might infiltrate. For the best results, choose a sealant that is specifically designed for use in bathrooms and follow the application instructions closely to avoid gaps.

“To ensure their panels remain waterproof Wetwall recommends using the Wilsonart Complete Adhesive and Sealants, which have been specifically designed to use on their panels and this will ensure validation of their lifetime guarantee, an industry leading offering.

10) Can you paint wet wall panels?

“Wetwall panels are not designed for painting. Their surface is engineered to be water-proof and easy to clean, which can be compromised by paint. If you want to update the colour or style of your space, consider replacing the panels with new ones in your preferred design. Wetwall offers a range of cost-effective options, from modern marbles and textured stones to trend-led colours, so there’s plenty to choose from.”

For more information or to view Wetwall’s full range of bathroom wall panels, please visit: www.wetwall.co.uk

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