When designing a bathroom, choosing the right shower tray is essential—not just for functionality but also for aesthetics. With various styles available, it can be tricky to figure out which one is the best fit for your space. Quadrant, rectangular, and square trays are all popular options, each with its own set of advantages depending on your bathroom’s size, layout, and style. In this post, we’ll break down each style and help you decide which shower tray is right for you.
Quadrant Shower Trays
Ideal For: Small Or Awkward Spaces
A quadrant shower tray is typically used for corner installations. The tray has a curved front that fits snugly into the corner of your bathroom, offering a more space-efficient option for smaller bathrooms or those with awkward layouts. These trays are perfect for creating a modern, minimalist shower space without taking up too much room.
Advantages of Quadrant Shower Trays:
- Space-saving: The curved design allows it to fit neatly into corners, maximising the use of available space.
- Sleek and modern: Quadrant trays often have a contemporary look, making them perfect for modern bathrooms.
- Ideal for small bathrooms: If you have a limited bathroom area, a quadrant tray can make your space feel bigger without sacrificing shower comfort. Check out our shower accessories.
Considerations:
- Limited space inside: While it saves floor space, a quadrant tray might feel a little tight if you prefer a larger shower area.
- More complex installation: The curved design means it may be a bit trickier to install compared to rectangular or square trays.
Rectangular Shower Trays
Ideal For: Larger Bathrooms Or For A More Spacious Feel
Rectangular shower trays are one of the most common choices. Their simple, straight-edged design makes them versatile and suitable for a wide range of bathroom sizes and styles.
Whether you’re looking to install a full-length shower or create a wet room look, rectangular trays offer a spacious showering experience.
Advantages of Rectangular Shower Trays:
- Spacious: A rectangular tray offers plenty of room for movement, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more expansive shower space.
- Versatile: These trays can be installed in various configurations, such as along a wall or as part of a walk-in shower design.
- Easy installation: Due to their shape, rectangular trays are typically easier to install than more complex designs, like quadrant trays.
Considerations:
- Takes up more space: In smaller bathrooms, a large rectangular tray might feel a bit imposing, especially if you’re trying to maximise your floor space.
- Less stylish for compact spaces: If your bathroom is on the smaller side, a rectangular tray may not have the same modern aesthetic as a quadrant or square tray.
Square Shower Trays
Ideal For: A Contemporary, Symmetrical Look
Square shower trays offer a clean, symmetrical design that suits a wide range of bathroom layouts. They can work well in bathrooms of all sizes, from compact spaces to larger rooms. A square tray can be placed in a corner, against a wall, or in the middle of a bathroom, depending on the look you’re after.
Advantages of Square Shower Trays:
- Contemporary style: The symmetrical design offers a modern, sleek appearance that works well in both minimalist and traditional bathrooms.
- Flexible installation: Square trays can be installed in various locations, whether as a corner shower or a more central feature in your bathroom.
- Efficient use of space: They can fit well into smaller bathrooms while still providing enough room for a comfortable shower.
Considerations:
- Might not suit larger bathrooms: In bigger bathrooms, a square tray may feel a bit small or out of proportion, especially if you’re looking for something that makes a bold statement.
- Less flexible layout: Unlike rectangular trays, square trays can limit your shower’s layout options in certain spaces.
What Can Make a Shower Tray Slippery?
Are you worried that a member of your family is going to fall in the shower? Know that the shower tray you have is going to have an impact on safety in the bathroom.
You need to ensure that you have the right one and that you’re taking care of it to minimise risks. Here are some elements you need to think about.
No Anti-Slip Coating
When you’re buying a new shower tray, make sure that it has an anti-slip coating on the base. This is going to mean that it doesn’t become as slippery when it’s wet. Alternatively, there are some materials that will have a texture. This is also a good way to get a grip underfoot and make sure that you’re not sliding all over the place.
Not Cleaning Regularly
What you don’t want is for shower products to create a film on the shower tray. This can create a slippery coating when there’s water. Therefore, make sure that you’re cleaning your shower regularly. This ensures that no such coating can develop that makes you feel less confident when you’re showering.
Having Drainage Issues
When you have drainage issues in the shower, water pools in the tray for longer. This can make it slippery to move around in. So, to avoid this from happening, make sure that you’re cleaning the drains regularly. If you have a blockage, call a plumber to get everything fixed.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right shower tray style for your bathroom comes down to your space, design preferences, and how you intend to use the shower. Whether you go for the space-saving quadrant, the spacious rectangular tray, or the sleek square tray, each style offers its own set of advantages. Take your time to consider your bathroom layout and personal preferences, and don’t hesitate to consult with a professional if you need help making the right choice. After all, the shower tray is one of the key elements of your bathroom design, and getting it right will set the tone for the rest of your space.
