Are you looking to save space with an all-in-one shower bath suite? Find out everything you need to know before you buy with our expert guide.
It may seem obvious, but one of the easiest ways to maximise space in a small bathroom is to condense both your shower and bath into a single unit. With a purpose-built shower bath, you and your family can enjoy the best of both worlds—a relaxing bath at the end of the day or an invigorating shower to kick start your morning. No need to compromise.
By purchasing your entire shower bath suite as a bundle, not only will you save on your overall cost, but you’re also guaranteed a fully coordinated bathroom with all the basics already in place.
In this expert buying guide, we’ll explain exactly what a shower bath suite is, what it contains and what to look out for in terms of budget, style and design, whilst answering some of your most frequently asked questions.
What is a shower bath suite?
Before we answer this question, we first need to understand what a bathroom suite is. Well, to put it simply, a bathroom suite usually consists of at least a toilet and basin—the 2 basic elements you’ll find in most bathrooms. However, it will often also include either a bath or shower enclosure, according to personal preference.
Instead of a bath or shower enclosure (and, in some cases, both), a shower bath suite contains a combined shower and bath.
Our selection of shower bath suites come in a variety of designs and styles to suit budgets big and small. Some only include the basic elements, so you can customise with your own taps, shower and accessories, while others include these elements.
One of the most common shower bath suite designs available, the Eden suite from Orchard Bathrooms is ideal for shared, family bathrooms
Next, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular shower bath suites and find out which is most suitable for you.
What are the different types of shower bath suite and which is best for me?
With different types of toilet (see our toilet buying guide), basins and shower baths, there is a huge variety of shower bath suite combinations to choose from.
At Victoria Plum, we have carefully created a range of shower bath suite packages which meet the demands of our customers. Some of the bestselling options include the following…
Straight/L shaped/P shaped shower bath with close coupled toilet and pedestal basin
This is the most common combination and is best for those on a budget. The P or L shaped options give you an enlarged end for showering, but will take up a little more room (see above). If choosing an L or P shaped shower bath suite, you will also need to select whether you want a left or right handed design, depending on which side you will access it from.
Straight/L shaped/P shaped shower bath with vanity unit and close coupled toilet
Ideal for cluttered family bathrooms, the vanity unit provides extra storage space, just where you need it most.
Freestanding shower bath with close coupled toilet and washstand
Perfect for those who love traditional style interiors, this combination of shower bath suite gives a sense of luxury and elegance.
Straight shower bath with wall hung toilet and countertop basin
For a more designer, contemporary look, this type of shower bath suite will certainly give your bathroom the wow factor (see below)! If you’re willing to push the boat out a little in terms of budget, this is the suite for you.
This stunning shower bath suite from the Orion range comes complete with contemporary charcoal grey wall hung toilet, shelf and basin
Next, we’ll consider which shower bath suite is suitable for a smaller space.
Which shower bath suite is best for a small bathroom?
If your bathroom is smaller than average, a shower bath suite really is a great choice. But which is best for you? Well, ultimately, it all depends on the size of the space available to you. Some of our shower bath suite bundles allow you to choose the size of your tub, whilst others come with a standard sized bath.
In the case of a small bathroom, it’s often best to choose a straight shower bath. Whilst this does mean less room to manoeuvre when showering, it does save a few vital inches of floor space.
How small can you go with your shower bath suite? Find out by clicking the image above
Which style of bath shower suite should I choose?
This completely depends on your own personal tastes and preferences. Many people like a fresh, modern-looking shower bath suite; a contemporary style which follows all the latest trends in interior design (some of which, we’ve already shown you throughout the course of this buying guide). However, if you live in a period property or simply prefer something which won’t go out of style, a traditional bath shower suite is the perfect choice (see below).
The Dulwich freestanding shower bath suite from Orchard Bathrooms. Intricately detailed bath feet, an ornate handle flush toilet and elegant washstand are all hallmarks of a traditional bathroom suite
Are there any other things I need to consider when buying a shower bath suite?
Aside from your budget, layout and style, there are other things you’ll need to take into consideration before you choose from our extensive selection of shower bath suites.
What does your shower bath suite come with?
Most of our shower bath suite bundles contain the shower bath itself (including glass screen), toilet and basin. This is to allow you to customise your design with your own choice of taps, shower and wastes. You may also need to purchase bath panels separately.
Size of the bath
We’d highly recommend measuring your bathroom fully before ordering, to ensure the bath you choose will fit into your space. Make a sketch on a piece of paper or use our free 3D bathroom planner to play about with your desired layout. Our shower bath range from a compact 1500mm x 700mm up to a generous 1800mm x 800mm in size.
Glass screen
All of the shower baths within our suite collection come complete with a screen, made from British Standard safety glass for added peace of mind. In some cases, the screen is fixed, whereas some shower bath designs come with a hinged screen, making access and cleaning easier. Check before you buy.
With a stylish vanity unit, plus all the essentials you need, the Derwent shower bath suite from Orchard Bathrooms is ideal for busy family bathrooms
Which shower bath suite brands are available at Victoria Plum
We currently stock the following shower bath suite brands:
- Orchard Bathrooms—High quality bathroom suites available in a choice of contemporary or traditional designs. Exclusive to Victoria Plum
- Mode Bathrooms—Premium, designer style for chic, contemporary bathrooms. Exclusive to Victoria Plum
- Ideal Standard—One of the UK’s leading names in quality bathroom design, with over 100 years of expertise
- RAK—A leading global ceramics brand, internationally-recognised for innovative design and superior quality
The Winchester shower bath suite from Orchard Bathrooms comes complete with matching bath and basin taps for that authentic vintage look
Frequently asked questions about shower bath suites
Will I need to buy items like the sink bottle trap separately, or do they come part of the sink.
In most cases, you will need to buy these items separately. You can check the “Dimensions and Specifications” to see exactly what comes with your shower bath suite.
Can I get a shower bath suite with gold or brass tapware?
Most of our shower bath suites contain just the shower bath, toilet and basin, allowing you to fully customise with your own choice of tapware. You’ll find plenty of stunning bathroom tap finishes available at Victoria Plum.
What if the bath in a shower bath suite doesn’t fit my space?
We have a wide range of shower bath sizes available. If your particular size isn’t contained within your chosen shower bath bundle, you may still be able to purchase a smaller bath size, plus your toilet and basin, separately.
Does the shower bath suite contain bath panels?
In the majority of cases, no. You will need to buy these separately. When you add a shower bath suite to your basket, we will also show you a list of essential items (including bath panels) to ensure you have everything you need.
What is a bath suite?
This is simply a bathroom suite which contains a toilet, basin and bath. The bath can be any type of design, including a straight bath, corner bath, freestanding bath or shower bath.
How much does a shower bath suite cost?
Check out our guide to bathroom costs, which we keep fully up-to-date.
For a designer, contemporary look, the Tate shower bath suite from Mode Bathrooms offers on-trend style
Shop shower bath suites
Ready to buy? Browse our full range of stylish shower bath suites at Victoria Plum by clicking on the image below.
More ideas and advice on shower baths and suites
At Victoria Plum, you’ll find all the help and inspiration you’ll need for your bathroom renovation, from bathroom planning to style guides, and much more besides.
If you’re after more specific advice, why not read through our bathroom suite buying guide or even our shower enclosure suite buying guide? We answer even more of your commonly asked questions about bathroom suites in our in-depth article.
If you’re lacking inspiration, discover a whole variety of modern bath and shower options you might not have thought about. And, if you’re still umming and aahing over which to choose, see our article on baths v showers. It may help you finally make up your mind!
