Not Just Tiles: 3 Beautiful Alternatives for Wet Room Floors
- Jenny Kakoudakis
- Jun 14
- 4 min read
Tiles have always been the most obvious choice for wet room flooring. They are incredibly tough, waterproof, and available in a number of finishes. However, what if a few other stand-out options could inject an exciting new element into your wet room?
The truth is the world of wet room flooring is moving forward, so we are presenting you with three refreshing alternatives to traditional tiles, all of which are gorgeous and practical.

1. Microcement: Sleek, Seamless, and Stunning
Microcement is one of the most spectacular solutions if you are after a contemporary, urban appeal that feels sophisticated and elegant. It boasts a seamless quality with no grout lines that create an opportunity for dirt and mould to grow.
This type of cement-based material can be used on a variety of floors, giving them a streamlined and seamless appearance that is always on-trend.
This material is also water-resistant, which makes it a perfect option for wet rooms. When used with the right type of wet room solution, like wet room trays for microcement, which you can find on https://wetroomsdesign.co.uk/wet-room-trays-for-microcement, the result is a pulsating and visually stunning space with a non-slip quality and longevity.
Microcement also feels amazing underfoot. It has a soft and cool texture and an alluring matte finish, which adds just enough luxury to the overall feel. There are many different colours and finishes you can explore, from natural, silver, and grey to industrial-inspired textures.
There is almost no limit to what you could do with your design because microcement will easily keep up with your versatility.

2. Rubber Flooring: Comfort Meets Durability
Rubber is one more funky alternative to a traditional finish you might want to consider if aiming for a sleek and serene wet room design. You have undoubtedly come across rubber in gyms, home exercise spaces, and playgrounds.
Now it has become more frequent in wet rooms because of the benefits it offers. Since rubber is one of the materials favoured for wet room flooring by potential customers, this flooring option has become as popular as any other kind.
Why would it be a great option? Rubber has all you would want ina , wet room flooring material: it is waterproof and non-slip and tends to be softer than stone or concrete floors.
It also comes in a wide range of colours, so you can easily match it to your walls, and since it is usually sold in large sheets, it can be installed seamlessly. Moreover, it requires much less love and care than other finishes, which casts this type of flooring in a new light.
On a practical note, rubber is incredibly easy to keep clean, one of the biggest benefits when looking for the best flooring for a wet room. Unlike bathroom tiles, it prevents mildew and mould as it does not allow spills to seep through. Rubber floors look super sharp with a clean and glossy finish. They come in a range of shades to suit both minimal and more maximalist interior designs.

3. Polished Concrete: Industrial Charm with a Twist
If you love the aesthetic of an industrial or urban-inspired wet room, polished concrete is your dream wet room flooring option. A contemporary floor type, polished concrete floors are durable and faultlessly waterproof. This material is hard to spoil and is not porous, so it’s perfect for wet room living.
The best bit about concrete flooring is its versatility. Opt for a glossy finish for a chic appeal that promotes a light and bright environment, or go for a more matte finish for a low-key approach. Another advantage to concrete flooring is that every type will appear different due to the nature of the material itself, so you’re guaranteed a one-of-a-kind wet room design.
Polished concrete also has good heat retention capabilities. Lay it on top of underfloor heating, and the wet room will feel snug all year round. Got a modern and minimal design in mind?
Concrete could be your perfect all-over finish.
Of course, this material can also be used as part of a mix-and-match design if you’re going for both contemporary and conventional styles.
Concrete is relatively low maintenance. It is hard-wearing and resistant to staining and spillages in general. What’s more, moisture won’t damage it as it won’t seep through the non-porous material. A sweep and mop to finish, cleaning a wet room finished with polished concrete floor tiles is simple.

Mixing Materials for Maximum Impact
While all of the above ideas will totally transform your wet room into an Urban Plains paradise, why not mix and match ideas to turn your space into a little sanctuary?
If you’re struggling to decide on the right material, think about what you want with the layout and design. In a large area, you might like to play with textures and choose more than one finish.
You could use rubber flooring in the shower area and polished concrete for the rest of the space. This would provide contrast and visual interest while ensuring each zone has the best material. Alternatively, you could choose a micro cement finish flooring to make your wet room appear as one seamless space.
A Fresh Approach to Wet Room Flooring
Nowadays, the wet room isn’t just for white tiles and shower walls, and you have so many options to choose from. Are you going to fall in love with the clean look of microcement?
Would you prefer the incredible grip and impact absorption of rubber? Do you like the industrial and durable look of polished concrete? All of these flooring options are well-suited to the unique design of a wet room, but each has its individual style and advantages.
Whatever you choose, your wet room should be designed to look fantastic and work for you. When combined with the right products, these modern finish alternatives will make the room look stunning and function at its best.
An alternative to neutral tiles will make your wet room the stylish retreat you always dreamed it could be. Combine form and function to create a fantastic space.
Our writers like to find the latest trends in home design and decor. We launched the award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2015 and the luxury property and interior decor blog www.alltheprettyhomes.com in 2024 to cover all your interior design, travel and lifestyle inspiration needs.