floors, walls, ceilings & acoustics
feature
19
bathroom design: a panel discussion
Jamie Sandilands
While bathroom design may not drive the early stages of planning a new build, it plays a crucial role in shaping buyer perception and overall build efficiency. Increasingly, developers are rethinking their approach to materials in these spaces – and wall panelling is leading that change. A noticeable shift is underway. Wall panels are no longer
viewed as a compromise; instead, they’ve evolved into a stylish, practical solution. With a wide variety of finishes now available, from realistic marble to stone and concrete effects, they offer high-end aesthetics that rival traditional tiles. But the appeal goes beyond appearance. For developers facing tight build schedules, labour shortages and strict budgets, panelling provides practical benefits that make it a worthwhile option. Faster installation, fewer trades, lower costs One of the most immediate advantages of wall panelling is the speed of installation. Panels can be fitted directly over almost any surface, which removes the need for extensive prep work. There’s also no grout, which means less mess and fewer drying times to work around. For a standard bathroom, panels can be installed in a matter of hours rather than days, which is a significant time saving when multiplied across multiple plots.
This also addresses one of the industry’s biggest current challenges – the shortage of skilled tilers. Because panels can be fitted by a wider range of trades, they reduce dependence on specialist contractors. That flexibility can help keep projects moving and reduce the risk of delays when labour is stretched. There’s a financial incentive too. When installation is simpler and less time-consuming, labour costs fall. With no need for a specialist tiler and fewer materials required, overall savings of around 30% are achievable, which equates to around £30pm2 per bathroom installation; a welcome figure at a time when cost control is front of mind across the industry. Built-in performance, lower snag rates In private new builds, quality is key – both in terms of finish and performance over time. Panels create a seamless surface with no grout to crack or discolour, which means fewer snagging issues and a lower risk of water ingress. This makes them particularly well suited to the high-moisture environments of bathrooms and shower enclosures, where water resistance is non-negotiable. Many panels on the market are tested to be 100% waterproof when correctly installed.
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