What’s the Best Toilet for Your New Bathroom Design? A UK Guide

When planning a new bathroom design, most people focus first on tiles, taps, and showers. Yet one of the most important choices—both in function and style—is the toilet. It’s a daily essential that affects comfort, hygiene, and even the overall flow of your bathroom space. With so many types now available, from wall-hung designs to rimless options, understanding what’s right for you can make all the difference. 

This detailed guide explores the best toilet options for your new bathroom design, including what’s most popular, what to consider for comfort and practicality, and how to choose the ideal style for your lifestyle and space. 

Understanding the Main Types of Toilets

Before comparing features and finishes, it helps to understand the main toilet styles available for modern UK bathrooms. Each type offers distinct benefits in design, comfort, and maintenance. 

1. Close-Coupled Toilets

This is the most common toilet type in UK homes. The cistern sits directly on the back of the pan, forming a single, compact unit. Close-coupled toilets are affordable, easy to install, and available in a wide range of styles—from classic to contemporary. 

Modern close-coupled toilets from brands such as Sonas or Utopia Bathrooms often feature dual-flush systems for improved water efficiency and soft-close seats for added comfort and hygiene. They are an excellent all-round choice for most family homes. 

Best for: Traditional layouts, easy replacement, family bathrooms. 

2. Back-to-Wall Toilets 

A back-to-wall toilet conceals the cistern within a furniture unit or wall cavity, leaving only the pan visible. This design creates a neat, streamlined look and saves floor space. 

Back-to-wall toilets work particularly well in fitted bathroom furniture ranges, such as those offered by Decosan or Utopia, where the concealed cistern is hidden behind a coordinated vanity or WC unit. This makes cleaning easier and gives the bathroom a modern, minimalist look. 

Best for: Contemporary bathrooms, fitted furniture, space-saving designs. 

3. Wall-Hung Toilets 

 Wall-hung toilets have become increasingly popular across modern UK bathrooms. The toilet pan is mounted to a strong steel frame concealed behind the wall, while the cistern is hidden within. The floor space beneath remains visible, making even small bathrooms feel larger and easier to clean. 

Although they require professional installation, wall-hung toilets offer unmatched visual lightness and practicality. They’re often chosen in design-led bathrooms where every detail matters. 

Best for: Modern bathrooms, en-suites, or small spaces where clean lines and easy cleaning are priorities. 

4. Comfort Height Toilets

A comfort height toilet sits slightly higher than standard models—typically around 450mm rather than the usual 400mm. This makes it easier to sit down and stand up, which can be especially helpful for older users, taller individuals, or anyone with mobility concerns. 

More bathroom brands now include comfort height options as standard. They look just as stylish as regular toilets but add an extra level of everyday ease. 

Best for: Seniors, taller users, or anyone prioritising comfort and accessibility. 

5. Rimless Toilets 

Rimless toilets are one of the biggest innovations in modern bathroom design. Traditional toilet bowls have a rim where dirt and bacteria can gather, but rimless designs eliminate this area entirely. The flush mechanism distributes water evenly around the bowl, ensuring a more hygienic and efficient clean. 

Rimless toilets are now available in all formats—from close-coupled to wall-hung—and are widely available in popular ranges from brands like Sonas and Ramon Soler. 

Best for: Hygiene-focused households, modern family homes, or anyone who values easy cleaning. 

6. Smart Toilets and Bidet Toilets 

For those interested in luxury or advanced functionality, smart toilets (sometimes known as bidet toilets or washlet toilets) are gaining popularity in UK homes. These combine standard toilet features with built-in bidet functions, heated seats, deodorising systems, and motion-activated lids. 

While once considered a luxury, compact and affordable models are now available from leading manufacturers. These toilets offer exceptional hygiene and comfort while reducing the need for toilet paper. 

Best for: Luxury bathrooms, modern eco-conscious homes, or users seeking enhanced hygiene. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Toilet

Selecting the right toilet isn’t just about style—it’s about comfort, practicality, and how the design suits your lifestyle. Here are the key factors to think through: 

1. Bathroom Layout and Space 
The available space will often dictate the type of toilet that works best. In small cloakrooms or en-suites, a wall-hung or back-to-wall model can create the illusion of more room. For larger family bathrooms, a close-coupled or comfort height design may provide greater comfort and visual balance. 

Always consider clearance space around the toilet. You’ll need at least 60cm in front and 20cm either side for comfort. 

2. Plumbing and Waste Position 
Your existing plumbing setup may limit which styles you can choose. Traditional floor-mounted toilets connect via a horizontal or vertical soil pipe, while wall-hung or back-to-wall options may require rerouting. 

It’s worth consulting your bathroom installer before finalising a choice. They can assess your plumbing layout and advise which designs are feasible without costly structural work. 

3. Style and Aesthetic 
Your toilet should complement the overall design of your bathroom. For instance: 

• Minimalist or modern bathrooms benefit from wall-hung or back-to-wall designs with clean lines and concealed cisterns. 
• Traditional bathrooms often suit close-coupled or high-level cistern toilets, which add period character. 
• Transitional bathrooms—those blending classic and modern styles—work beautifully with comfort height close-coupled designs in smooth, matt finishes. 

Many UK brands like Acquabella and Decosan now offer coordinated sanitaryware, allowing you to match basins, baths, and furniture for a unified look. 

4. Water Efficiency 
Most modern toilets in the UK now feature dual-flush technology, offering two flush volumes (commonly 3 litres and 6 litres). This saves significant amounts of water over time without compromising performance. 

When choosing a toilet, check for WRAS (Water Regulations Advisory Scheme) approval and pay attention to the flush ratings. Efficient designs not only reduce your environmental footprint but can also cut utility costs. 

5. Hygiene and Cleaning 
If easy maintenance is a priority, consider rimless designs and antibacterial glazes. Some brands, such as Sonas and Utopia, include special coatings that prevent dirt and limescale buildup. A wall-hung toilet also simplifies cleaning, as you can mop underneath without obstruction. 

6. Comfort and Ergonomics 
Comfort isn’t just about height. The seat shape, depth, and contour can make a real difference to day-to-day usability. Oval or elongated bowls tend to feel more comfortable than compact round designs, though the latter may fit smaller spaces better. 

Soft-close seats, ergonomic contours, and slow-lowering lids are all small features that enhance comfort and longevity. 
 
 
7. Budget and Value for Money 
Toilets vary widely in price. A good-quality close-coupled toilet might cost between £150 and £400, while designer wall-hung systems or smart toilets can exceed £1,000. Installation costs also differ depending on the complexity of the design. 

It’s usually best to invest in quality from a reputable brand. Reliable toilets last longer, require less maintenance, and perform better over time. 

Popular Toilet Choices in UK Bathrooms

In UK homes, close-coupled toilets remain the most widely installed due to their reliability and affordability. However, design-conscious homeowners increasingly prefer wall-hung toilets for their sleek look and ease of cleaning. Meanwhile, rimless technology has become almost standard for mid-range and high-end bathrooms. It combines hygiene with performance—making it a sensible upgrade, even for traditional settings. 

Comfort height toilets are another growing trend, particularly among older homeowners or those looking to futureproof their homes. 

Toilets for Different Lifestyles

Different households have different priorities when choosing the right toilet: 

• For family bathrooms: Choose a durable close-coupled or rimless toilet with an easy-clean seat and robust flush mechanism. Dual-flush functionality is essential for efficiency. 
• For compact spaces or cloakrooms: Opt for a short-projection back-to-wall or wall-hung model to maximise space. 
• For accessible bathrooms: Comfort height or raised toilets provide greater ease of use. Pair with a soft-close seat and grab rails if required. 
• For modern luxury spaces: Smart toilets or integrated bidet models bring cutting-edge comfort and hygiene. 
• For eco-conscious homes: Look for low-flush toilets with WRAS approval and sustainable materials. 

Installation and Professional Advice

Installing a toilet may seem straightforward, but modern designs often require careful planning—especially those with concealed cisterns or wall frames. A qualified bathroom installer will ensure proper alignment, secure fixings, and leak-free connections. 

Brands like Ramon Soler, Roman, and Interlübke supply high-quality fittings and accessories designed to integrate seamlessly with today’s sanitaryware systems. Professional installers familiar with these ranges can help ensure your chosen toilet performs as intended and maintains its visual appeal. 

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Toilet for You

The best toilet for your new bathroom design is one that fits your lifestyle, complements your décor, and offers lasting comfort. Whether you prefer the traditional look of a close-coupled model or the space-saving sleekness of a wall-hung design, quality and practicality should always guide your choice. 

Take time to visit a showroom, and to consider your space, water efficiency needs, and comfort preferences. Discuss options with your bathroom designer or installer to ensure compatibility with your plumbing layout. 

With thoughtful selection you can find a toilet that balances function, comfort, and style perfectly for your home.