Mobility Wet Room UtiliSpa | Otley | More Ability
Published: 3 March 2025
Background
Our client had recently suffered a broken hip and was further diagnosed with severe osteoporosis, making it increasingly difficult to access the existing upstairs bathroom. Approaching us for expert help and advice, our client wanted to create a safe and functional downstairs shower room within an existing space that housed a WC and large utility.
The priority was to incorporate a level-access shower with a seat for ease of use while maintaining the essential elements of the utility room, including the boiler, washer, and sink. Initially considering dividing the space into two rooms, there was uncertainty on how this could be achieved without compromising the functionality of either area, which is where our expert design team stepped in.
Mobility Wet Room UtiliSpa Design
Senior Designer, Julie, proposed an innovative solution: the "Wet Room UtiliSpa"—a multi-purpose space that seamlessly combined a fully accessible mobility wet room within a functional utility room. This design concept allowed for a spacious and comfortable showering experience without reducing the practicality of the utility space.
To optimise the layout, Julie suggested leaving the existing separate WC footprint intact while enhancing it with a vanity sink and mirror for visitor use. Instead of splitting the utility area, Julie recommended removing the existing wall and rebuilding it with an angled entrance. This would ensure both spaces benefited from natural light through the feature window, creating a bright and airy environment.
By concealing the boiler within utility furniture, the design not only maintained functionality but also provided additional storage without disrupting the aesthetic. A stainless-steel sink was positioned beneath the window, alongside the washing machine, keeping the space practical and accessible.
Selecting a pale gloss grey finish for the utility furniture, complemented by a matching worksurface and wallboards, the light colour scheme set the tone for the entire room, allowing the colourful stained glass feature window to remain the focal point of the design.
Mobility Wet Room UtiliSpa Installation
A full mobility wet room concept was essential to ensure ease of access and long-term safety, accompanied by a cushioned fold down shower seat. To enhance this further, the flooring was finished in Treefog Green Altro, a slip-resistant vinyl material chosen for its practicality and subtle green tone.
The purpose-built stud wall was strengthened to securely support grab rails, positioned in all the right places for stability and ease of movement. A new concealed cistern and back-to-wall comfort-height WC were installed, complete with drop down rails at either side to support additional safety and ease of use.
Next to the shower, a natural recess in the side wall presented an opportunity for a unique feature. Rather than leaving it unused, Julie suggested building it up slightly to create a spa bench, providing a dedicated area for drying off after showering.
A heated ladder radiator in Titane Grey was installed to add warmth to the space, while wet wall board panels in Storm were chosen for their easy maintenance and practical, modern finish. The ceiling was plastered, and new inset lighting and an extractor fan were fitted to enhance ventilation and create a well-lit environment.
Installation Process
Once the design was finalised, Installations Surveyor, Joe, conducted a detailed site survey to ensure a smooth transformation while overseeing and project managing the entire renovation.
Multi-skilled Fitter, Tony, conducted the installation with precision, bringing the Wet Room UtiliSpa concept to life. Every detail, from the placement of accessibility features to the seamless integration of utility elements, was carefully executed, resulting in a highly functional space that combined both style and practicality.
The Finished Wet Room UtiliSpa
The completed Wet Room UtiliSpa shower room perfectly balanced practicality and comfort. The open layout and natural light created an inviting space that met our clients accessibility needs while retaining all the key elements of the utility room.
The thoughtful selection of materials, fixtures, and colours resulted in a modern, easy-to-maintain solution that would support independence and safety for years to come.
Project Summary
This case study highlights our ability to create innovative, mobility bathroom solutions tailored to individual needs without compromising on style. By integrating our full-service expertise in design, project management, and installation, we transformed our client’s space into a practical yet stylish Wet Room UtiliSpa, enhancing both safety and everyday convenience.
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