A fairly new concept within the bathroom wall decor market, still regarded as the contemporary style choice, bathroom wall panels are continually growing in popularity. And Rearo have been providing them for over 30 years. Ranging from PVC and laminate finishes, to tile effect panels, we sit down with their Head of Design to discuss why you should be making the switch from tiles in your bathroom. 

Printed in the same style as wallpaper, the design opportunities are endless when it comes to shower wall panels. Designs are selected and then available in either gloss, matte or textured surfaces to give the appearance of real stone or wood for a luxury finish. In Rearo's collection alone, they have a range of over 70 bathroom wall boards to choose from - all of which can be used in combination to create your own unique bathroom wall decor. Whether it's brick style tile effects, rugged concrete textures, classic marble effects or sparkling glitter, there is a design to suit every taste. 

Suited to shower areas, bathrooms and wet rooms, wet wall panels offer quick and easy installation. Available in either a square edge or tongue and groove format, they can be applied across long stretches of wall as a ready-made system, just requiring panel trims for corner areas and silicone sealant in between joins to provide an entirely watertight seal and professional looking finish. An added benefit is bathroom panels can be placed over existing tiles for a sleek, smooth professional finish without the hassle or mess of removing what you already have. 

It's this easy fit system that has seen joiners favour bathroom wall panels instead of tiles in recent years.  Supplied in large 2400mm x 1200mm sheets, the surface area is covered by one single panel, and with no grouting required this reduces installation costs and times significantly. What would typically take two or three days is now being carried out in one, with less mess. And, for the enthusiasts among you, installing shower wall panels are DIY friendly. 

And, the durability of this surface means less maintenance requirements. With shower wall panels being 100% waterproof they are significantly easier to maintain and eliminate the typical issues normally encountered with grout, such as, mould and mildew. Laminate is typically used across bathroom and kitchen surfaces, both within the domestic and commercial market, and is a naturally anti-bacterial surface - inhibiting the spread of viruses such as black mould and e-coli. The non-porous surface is extremely resistant to staining and any residue will simply rest on the surface, easily removed with the assistance of a damp cloth and mild detergent. Average lifespan of any laminate is between 15 - 20 years, that's why Rearo certify their laminate wall panels with a 10-year guarantee. 

As well as the continuance of earthy tones and a preference to natural materials, as consumers become more aware of the environmental impact their behaviours have, the stand out interiors styles for 2022 are Scandinavian and provincial bathrooms. Quite the contrast, it separates the minimalists from the more opulent consumers, with Scandinavian bathrooms sticking to more neutral palettes and woven textures, whilst provincial styles play around with pastel shades and more decorative patterns. However a bathroom plant is not to be missed again this year. Rearo's top style picks in their bathroom wall panels range for 2022 are their Selkie Periwinkle and Sage wall panels, Nuova Baron Elm shower panels and their Versatile White Brick bathroom wall boards.