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BathroomsDesign Dilemma
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Internal shower room all wall panelled or half height??

last year

One of our flat's ensuite is being refurbished and it had wall panelling everywhere with 2.5m high ceilings. There are no windows and it's about 2m x 1.1m in size.
I'm going to lower this to 2.4 anyway to allow for using a single wall panel in the shower area (which are 2.4 x 1m wide). Plumber said to panel all of it to make it easy to clean etc but part of me is resisting this idea as I think it will just be too much??
Personally I would prefer all the shower done and then half height to come up past the sink and wc unit. It will be a subtle concrete grey colour with funky patterned floor and a black sliding shower screen and black shower. So I could use a black trim all the way around perhaps to frame it.
Aside from it costing less as I won't need as many panels, is it not worth it for the repaint job etc?? Ie harder to maintain and less mouldy if panelled all around?
The panels are those plastic wipe clean ones but the nicer looking styles as we just ripped the sparkle one that was in there!
Thank you

Featured Answer
  • PRO
    last year

    When deciding on the extent of paneling in a bathroom, especially a smaller one like an ensuite, there are several factors to consider. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons for full vs. half-height paneling:

    Full-Height Paneling:

    • Pros:
      • Easy Maintenance: As your plumber mentioned, having the entire room paneled can make it easier to clean, especially in a bathroom where moisture can lead to mold growth.
      • Uniform Look: It can give a consistent, streamlined appearance to the room.
      • Waterproofing: Provides comprehensive protection against water splashes and dampness.
    • Cons:
      • Aesthetic Concerns: Depending on personal preference, it might feel overwhelming or less refined, especially in a smaller space.
      • Less Personalization: The room may feel less 'decorated' or personalized.

    Half-Height Paneling:

    • Pros:
      • Aesthetic Diversity: It allows for a mix of materials and finishes, which can add character to the space.
      • Cost: As you mentioned, it would require fewer panels and hence, would be less expensive.
      • Opportunity for Color: The upper half can be painted in a contrasting or complementary color to the paneling below, allowing for more design flexibility.
    • Cons:
      • Maintenance: The painted portion will require occasional repainting, especially if the paint starts to peel due to moisture.
      • Less Waterproof: While the lower half will be protected, the upper half, especially if not properly sealed, can be vulnerable to moisture damage.

    Design Recommendations:

    1. Balance: If you're leaning towards half-height paneling, consider where the break will occur. Using a black trim, as you mentioned, can help delineate the two areas and tie in with your black shower fittings.
    2. Top-Half Finish: If you decide on half-height paneling, ensure that the top half is finished with a high-quality bathroom paint that's moisture and mildew resistant.
    3. Ventilation: Regardless of your choice, make sure your ensuite has adequate ventilation (like an extractor fan) to reduce the buildup of moisture and prevent mold.

    In conclusion, your choice should reflect a balance between practicality and aesthetics. If you feel that full-height paneling might feel too overpowering, trust your design instincts and opt for the half-height option with the necessary precautions. Remember, a well-designed space should not only function well but also resonate with the homeowner's taste and style.

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