Bathrooms have evolved far beyond their traditional utilitarian role. Modern bathroom design trends prioritise aesthetics, space optimisation, and functionality, making every fixture count – from the basin to the toilet.
When renovating or building a bathroom, the most significant decision you’ll face is investing in the right toilet style. Today, the most popular style is the in-wall one. Compared to traditional toilets, in-wall bowls have their cistern and plumbing completely hidden inside the wall, which offers several benefits such as ease of maintenance to space optimisation.
When it comes to in-wall toilets, there are two mounting types you can choose from – wall-hung and floor-mounted. These often appear similar but have distinct differences that affect performance, installation, and long-term satisfaction. Here’s what you need to know to make the right choice.
What Are Wall-Hung Toilets?
Wall-hung toilets are a stylish and contemporary option, favoured for their minimalist look and space-saving design. As the name suggests, the bowl is mounted directly to the wall and appears to “float” above the floor, with no visible base. The cistern, along with the plumbing, is concealed within the wall cavity, leaving only the flush plate and the bowl visible.
These types of fixtures offer a clean, modern aesthetic that can make even a compact bathroom feel more spacious. Because the bowl doesn’t touch the floor, it also makes cleaning under and around much easier.
Fitting a wall-hung toilet typically requires a sturdy frame installed inside the wall, which supports the weight of the user and houses the hidden components. This frame must be anchored securely to either a solid brick wall or a reinforced stud wall.
What Are Floor-Mounted In-Wall Toilets?
Floor-mounted in-wall designs have the same concealed cistern as wall-hung ones but rest firmly on the ground like a traditional bowl. They combine the clean appearance of modern design with the familiar comfort of a floor-supported unit.
These systems are a great solution for homeowners who want the visual advantages of a hidden cistern, but their plumbing requires that the bowl is installed on the wall. Like wall-hung models, they require planning for future maintenance, with access panels or removable tiles to reach the in-wall components.
Key Differences
One of the primary differences, obviously, lies in the mounting style. Wall-hung bowls are suspended above the floor, creating a floating appearance, while the floor-mounted ones rest firmly on the ground with the cistern hidden within the wall.
When it comes to aesthetics, both styles offer a modern, minimalist look by concealing the cistern, but wall-hung bowls take this a step further with their sleek, elevated design. This floating effect contributes to a more open and contemporary feel, especially in smaller bathrooms.
In terms of cleaning, wall-hung bowls have a clear advantage. With no contact with the floor, they allow for easy access underneath, making mopping and maintaining hygiene simpler. Floor-mounted in-wall toilets, while still more streamlined than traditional models, retain some of the cleaning challenges associated with floor-contact installations.
Looking at space efficiency, wall-hung bowls are ideal for compact bathrooms, as they free up visible floor space and create the illusion of a larger area. In contrast, while floor-mounted ones also help conserve space by hiding the cistern, the fact that they sit on the floor can make them feel slightly bulkier.
Installation is another key consideration. Wall-hung models require reinforced wall framing to support the suspended bowl, which can increase both the complexity and cost of installation. In-wall floor-mounted models are typically easier to install, as they do not demand as much structural modification, although they still need adequate access to the concealed cistern for maintenance.
Wall-hung models also tend to be more expensive overall due to the need for specialised support frames and more intricate installation. In-wall, floor-mounted options are generally more budget-friendly while still offering the benefit of a modern design.
Maintenance is another factor. Both types of toilets rely on concealed cisterns, so future servicing must be considered in the design. Flush plates often double as access panels, or removable tiles can be installed to allow maintenance access without damaging the wall.
Factors to Consider When Choosing
1. Bathroom Size and Layout
If you’re working with a compact space, wall-hung models can free up valuable floor area, making the room appear larger. However, floor-mounted in-wall bowls can still offer a minimalist look compared to the traditional design.
2. Wall Structure
As mentioned, wall-hung bowls need a sturdy frame to support the user’s weight, which may require additional construction if your wall is not load-bearing. In contrast, in-wall floor-mounted models can be installed on standard walls with less structural modification.
3. Budget
Budget is a significant factor. While both styles will cost more than a traditional close-coupled toilet, wall-hung models typically require a higher investment due to installation and structural needs.
4. Cleaning Preferences
Wall-hung models make cleaning the bathroom floor considerably easier. If hygiene and ease of cleaning are high on your priority list, this may be the deciding factor.
5. Accessibility and Height
Wall-hung models offer the benefit of height customisation during installation, which can be an advantage for elderly users or those with mobility challenges.
6. Long-Term Maintenance
Make sure your design includes easy access to the concealed cistern, no matter which option you choose. A flush plate with access or a cleverly placed removable tile panel can save significant time and money down the road.
Conclusion
Both wall-hung and floor-mounted in-wall models are sleek, contemporary alternatives to traditional toilets, each with its own set of strengths. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and what works beautifully in one space may not be suitable in another.
When remodelling or building your bathroom, it’s always wise to consult with experienced plumbing and bathroom design professionals to ensure the toilet you choose aligns with both your vision and your home’s practical realities.
