Say Goodbye to Bathtubs: The Rise of Walk-In Showers
Many homeowners are ditching their bathtubs in favor of luxurious walk-in showers. This trend isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a reflection of changing lifestyles and a desire for bathrooms that prioritize functionality, accessibility, and a spa-like experience. Dive into this article to explore the reasons why bathtubs are taking a backseat, and discover inspiring walk-in shower designs that redefine bathroom luxury.
Design adapting to lifestyle
Aging homeowners and millennials are both ditching bathtubs, but for different reasons. This is one of the key predictions for bathroom design, according to a survey of over 700 industry professionals. The findings are highlighted in the latest annual report by the National Kitchen & Bath Association. Sweeten has also observed this trend among renovating homeowners.
At Sweeten, we’re experts at all things general contractors — we pre-screen them for our network, carefully select the best ones for your remodeling project, and work closely with hundreds of general contractors every day. So, we’ve tapped our internal expertise to bring you this guide.
An all-in-one bathroom
Millennial renovators are removing bathtubs to increase the size of their showers. Spa amenities such as steam showers and multiple showerheads are in demand.
(Above) Sweeten homeowners Ylia and Andre removed their bathtub for a shower making room for a double trough vanity sink Sweeten brings homeowners an exceptional renovation experience by personally matching trusted general contractors to your project, while offering expert guidance and support—at no cost to you. Renovate to live, Sweeten to thrive!
According to the survey, walk-in showers are increasingly popular, often featuring a wet room design. This design eliminates the traditional shower tray or curb, allowing water to drain directly into the floor. As a result, the shower and bathroom become a unified space without barriers.
The freed-up space can be used to create additional storage or a larger dressing area. This is particularly beneficial for smaller bathrooms where every square inch counts.
(Above) Wet room-style bathroom remodel by Sweeten homeowner Alice
Aging in place highlights safety measures
The big draw of no tub and a big shower for an aging population is it’s easy to use. They no longer need to step over the high rim of a bathtub or the lower curb of a shower tray. This population is also adding grab bars to prevent slips.
As this group of homeowners age, the foresight to make these small changes will give them greater independence for longer.
(Above) A family converts an extra room into an accessible bathroom with a curbless walk-in shower for a senior family member
Inspiration for new color and textures
Homeowners, especially millennials, are looking at travel and their favorite boutique hotels for bathroom design. These hotel bathrooms often have bold or even quirky design features. This could mean vibrant pops of color, patterned tiles, and unusual accessories such as towel hooks in odd shapes.
(Above) Steve and Lewis’ bathroom mixed colorful tile in chartreuse, dark green, and gray-green
(Above) This Sweeten homeowner incorporated a natural look in his bathroom with materials like accoya wood and handmade zellige tile
Tips for a successful tub-to-shower conversion
- Consult with a Professional: Seek advice from a bathroom remodeling contractor or designer to ensure a smooth and successful conversion.
- Measure and Plan: Carefully measure your bathroom space to determine the best layout for your walk-in shower. Consider factors like size, shape, and existing plumbing.
- Choose the Right Materials: Select materials that are durable, water-resistant, and complement your bathroom’s overall style.
- Consider Accessibility: If you’re planning to age in place or have mobility concerns, opt for a curbless shower design and non-slip flooring.
- Upgrade Plumbing: Ensure your plumbing system is up to code and can handle the increased water flow of a shower.
- Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is essential to prevent mold and mildew growth in a wet room design.
- Lighting: Install adequate lighting to create a bright and inviting atmosphere.
The trend towards walk-in showers is a testament to the evolving needs and preferences of homeowners. Whether you’re seeking a more accessible bathroom, a spa-like retreat, or simply a fresh new look, ditching the tub for a shower can be a transformative decision. By carefully considering your design preferences, space constraints, and budget, you can create a walk-in shower that enhances both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your bathroom. Embrace the trend and experience the many benefits that a walk-in shower can bring to your home.
FAQs
Start by defining your goals and budget. Sweeten can help you with this by matching you with vetted contractors who can provide expert advice and estimates. Our team of renovation experts will guide you through every step of the process, from planning and budgeting to selecting the right contractor and overseeing the project.
The average cost of converting a bathtub to a shower can vary depending on factors like bathroom size, shower type, materials, and labor costs. The average cost is between $2,000 and $5,000, but obtaining quotes from multiple contractors is recommended for an accurate estimate.
