Back to Wall Toilets vs. Traditional Toilets: Which Is Best for Your Melbourne Bathroom?
When it comes to designing your Melbourne bathroom, selecting the right toilet plays a crucial role in both functionality and aesthetics. Two popular options you might come across are back to wall toilets and traditional toilets. Both have their pros and cons, but one could be better suited to your needs depending on your bathroom layout, design preferences, and even maintenance priorities.
In this blog, we’ll compare back to wall toilets with traditional toilets, helping you decide which option best complements your Melbourne home. From space-saving benefits to maintenance tips, we’ve got you covered.
For more information on general bathroom design principles, you can refer to Australian Standards for Plumbing and Drainage.
What is a Back to Wall Toilet?
Definition and Features
A back to wall toilet is a modern, stylish option where the toilet bowl is mounted against the wall, concealing the cistern and piping. Unlike traditional toilets, where the cistern is usually attached directly to the back of the toilet, back to wall toilets feature a concealed cistern, hidden inside the wall or a vanity unit.
The sleek, minimalist design is one of the primary reasons for its popularity in contemporary Melbourne bathrooms.
Advantages of Back to Wall Toilets
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Space-saving Design
Melbourne homes often come with compact bathrooms, and a back to wall toilet is ideal for maximising space. The hidden cistern creates a cleaner, more open feel, perfect for smaller or modern bathrooms. -
Modern Aesthetic
The streamlined look of a back to wall toilet makes it an excellent choice for those looking to create a contemporary bathroom design. With less visible plumbing, the bathroom feels more sophisticated and uncluttered. -
Easier Cleaning
Without a cistern to clean around, a back to wall toilet makes bathroom upkeep a breeze. The absence of exposed pipes also means fewer nooks and crannies for dust, dirt, and mould to accumulate.
What is a Traditional Toilet?
Definition and Features
A traditional toilet typically features an exposed cistern attached to the back of the toilet bowl. This design is more common in older homes, and while it may not have the same minimalist appeal as back to wall toilets, it has stood the test of time due to its reliability and straightforward installation.
Advantages of Traditional Toilets
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Cost-effective
Traditional toilets generally have a lower upfront cost compared to back to wall options. If you’re on a tighter budget or renovating a bathroom in an older home, this could be the practical solution. -
Familiar and Reliable
With decades of use, the traditional toilet design is well-known for its reliability. There's no hidden cistern or complex installation, so maintenance is often easier and more straightforward. -
Variety of Styles
Whether you’re aiming for a vintage look or a classic design, traditional toilets come in a variety of styles and finishes. This makes them a versatile choice for different bathroom themes, especially if you want to add a touch of nostalgia.
Back to Wall vs Traditional: Key Differences
1. Aesthetics and Design
While both toilet types serve the same purpose, the aesthetic difference is stark. Back to wall toilets have a sleek, contemporary design ideal for modern bathrooms, while traditional toilets tend to have a more bulky, utilitarian appearance. If you’re looking to create a minimalist, high-end vibe in your Melbourne bathroom, back to wall toilets are the winner.
2. Space Considerations
Back to wall toilets excel in compact bathrooms due to their space-saving nature. The cistern is concealed, giving you extra room and making the bathroom feel larger and more open. On the other hand, traditional toilets take up more space with their exposed cistern, which can make smaller bathrooms feel more cramped.
For advice on optimising small bathroom spaces, visit Small Bathroom Solutions from the Australian Institute of Architects.
3. Maintenance and Cleaning
Back to wall toilets are easier to maintain, thanks to their hidden cisterns and fewer exposed pipes. This makes cleaning quicker and more efficient. Traditional toilets, with their visible cistern and plumbing, can accumulate grime more easily and require more frequent cleaning around the pipes.
4. Installation and Cost
While back to wall toilets are more stylish, they tend to be more expensive and require more complex installation, as the cistern needs to be concealed within the wall or a unit. Traditional toilets, in contrast, are typically less costly and can be easier to install, especially in older homes where the plumbing is already set up for this style.
Which is Best for Your Melbourne Bathroom?
Space Constraints and Bathroom Layout
If you have a smaller Melbourne bathroom, the back to wall toilet is your best option. The space-saving design allows you to make the most of limited square footage. Additionally, the sleek lines of back to wall toilets can open up your bathroom and give it a more spacious feel. For a larger bathroom or one where traditional charm is part of the design, a traditional toilet may still fit the bill.
Style and Aesthetic
If you're looking for a contemporary, high-end bathroom, then the back to wall toilet is the clear choice. It offers a clean, minimalist look that works beautifully with modern fixtures. However, if your Melbourne home has a vintage or traditional design, a traditional toilet can seamlessly blend in, offering both form and function.
Budget Considerations
For those working with a tight budget, traditional toilets are usually more affordable in terms of both the initial purchase price and installation costs. However, back to wall toilets may justify the extra investment for homeowners who prioritise aesthetics, space-saving, and long-term ease of cleaning.
Maintenance Preferences
If low-maintenance and easy cleaning are your priorities, back to wall toilets are the way to go. Their modern design means fewer areas for dirt and grime to accumulate. Traditional toilets require more attention to detail in cleaning, especially around the exposed cistern and pipes.
Final Thoughts: Which Toilet is Right for You?
In the end, the decision between back to wall toilets and traditional toilets depends on your Melbourne bathroom's size, your design preferences, and your budget. Back to wall toilets are perfect for those seeking a modern, space-saving solution with easy maintenance, while traditional toilets are reliable, cost-effective, and versatile.
Consider what aspects are most important to you—whether it’s style, functionality, or budget—and make the choice that best suits your needs.
At Kalessi Bathroom and Tiles, we offer a wide range of high-quality bathroom products to help you design your dream space. Visit us today to explore our selection of both back to wall and traditional toilets and get expert advice tailored to your Melbourne bathroom.