Luxury showers are surging in popularity – but will they ever replace the bath tub?

Luxury showers are having a moment – but this trend is more than just a fad. Instead, this feature is making waves in the interiors world, where experts predict it may become more popular than the bathtub.

This interior design trend is here to threaten the reign of the tub, but what classifies as a luxury shower? And is it powerful enough to reshape your bathroom this 2022? Here is everything you need to know. 

What are luxury showers? 

Luxury showers classify as large enclosures and wet rooms that are more spacious than a conventional cubicle. A recent study* revealed searches for walk-in showers have surged by 100%, whereas the demand for baths has decreased by 35%. 

But what is the reason for the shift? Yousef Mansuri, Head of Design at C.P Hart, is among the designers who have observed the change in bathroom ideas.  

Why are luxury showers trending? 

According to Yousef, the craving for personal space and the importance of hygiene during the pandemic are the reasons behind the change. He adds that showers are popular for their 'all-around accessibility' for all age ranges. ‘I see the majority of bathroom renovations being showers in 2022,’ Yousef adds. 

Pail Wells, the Showroom Manager at Sanctuary Bathrooms, similarly explains that ‘more people are choosing to go for walk-in showers and wet rooms over baths.’ 

He also suggests that people are attracted to the wet room's ability to make a statement with colorful and patterned tiles. So, the appeal behind these shower room ideas is unsurprising, but will it mark the end of the bathtub?

Will luxury showers overtake bathtubs in 2022?  

While Yousef observed the rise in the walk-in showers' popularity, he offers hope for the tub, suggesting that bath ideas will continue to be popular in ‘larger bathrooms, where a wellness and spa feeling can be achieved.'

Similarly, James Lentaigne, the Creative Director at Drummonds, revealed that despite the interest in showers, they had observed a rise in demand for bathroom shower ideas. 

‘It is perhaps a lifestyle choice as customers are choosing to spend a long time designing their bathrooms to ensure the layout is suited to those who will be using [the space],’ he says. 

‘For example, families with young children always want a bath in the family bathroom; those who are working from home more want to create a relaxing sanctuary as an escape from their workspace,’ In his discussion of luxury bathroom ideas, James adds that some consumers may even request a bath and no shower. 

Luxury showers are undeniably on the rise, but will they ever catch up to the ageless bathtub? Only time will tell. 

* Study by Drench.co.uk