Walk-in shower, layout, waterproofing and shower trays
The walk-in shower, a level-access shower, has become the standard of contemporary bathrooms. It visually enlarges the room, simplifies access and fits into any composition. Technically, it demands precise work on slope and waterproofing, the execution of which determines the durability of the chosen finish.
At Atelier Matière, we guide architects and private clients from the choice of tile to the validation of the layout. Our sister company Atelier Moderne takes on the installation when useful.
The shower tray, three paths
First path, a built-in tiled tray in continuity with the floor, with a linear channel drain or a central waste. Second path, a shower tray in solid stone (Petra Stones, Marmi, Kyrya Pivstone), cut to size. Third path, a prefabricated ceramic or resin tray. All three are valid, we choose between them based on budget, level of customisation and the layout grid.
Slope and drainage
A slope of 1 to 2% is enough for proper run-off, without disturbing standing use. A linear channel drain at the edge (against the back wall or along a side wall) allows a single-direction slope, easy to coordinate with large-format tiles. A central waste calls for four slopes, which means more complex cutting, better suited to small formats.
Waterproofing, mandatory
Before the tiles are laid, a SPEC (under-tile water protection system) or a SEL (liquid waterproofing system) is applied to the floor and the walls up to at least 2 m. For walk-in showers we systematically recommend the SEL, it is the guarantee that water will never pass through the finish.
Large-format layout
With 120x240 or 160x320 slabs, the layout is thought through like a drawing. Position cuts so that they fall on a natural point (corner, channel drain, return), align floor-to-wall joints wherever possible, plan openings (taps, grab bar, seat) at order time. Our in-house team issues a dimensioned layout drawing.
Related selection
Let’s compose your project
Every material needs to be touched, compared and confronted with the light of the project. We welcome you by appointment in one of our two Paris showrooms to refine your selection.