Expanded GRP pod finishes offer greater choice and cost savings for BTR developments
New design-led finishes for GRP pods
Offsite Solutions, the UK’s leading bathroom pod manufacturer, has developed a new range of finishes for its GRP pod solutions aimed at build-to-rent (BTR) developments.
The design options available for Offsite Solutions’ highly successful range of GRP composite pods have been expanded to five tile-effect finishes. This widens the scope of factory-finished GRP shower rooms and bathrooms for the private rental sector, which can now feature up to two of the following finishes:
- Mosaic
- Square
- Larger format landscape or vertical
- Brick-bond metro tiles
These tile-effect finishes are all integral to the pod carcase and avoid the need for grout and tiles in the wet areas. This innovative but proven solution significantly reduces ongoing maintenance over the life of the bathroom. GRP pods can therefore cut operating costs for serviced apartment schemes by at least 90% compared to in-situ built bathrooms.
Capital cost and performance advantages
The capital cost of GRP pods can be up to 20% lower than steel-framed pod solutions, helping developers and apartment operators meet budget targets while also reducing long-term maintenance expenses.
Aesthetics and performance combined
According to James Stephens, Managing Director of Offsite Solutions:
“These tile-effect finishes take the aesthetic appearance of GRP pods to a completely new level, giving architects, contractors and developers even more design flexibility, in addition to the speed, quality, and efficiency benefits of offsite manufacturing. We also offer a floorless option for these pods which minimises floor build-up – an important feature for achieving a level threshold into the bathrooms.”
“These elements, together with the significantly reduced operating and capital costs, make GRP bath and shower pods a really compelling offer for build-to-rent developers and investors.”
Growth of GRP pods in BTR
Offsite Solutions’ GRP pods have long been used in the student living sector, where robustness, longevity, ease of maintenance and lower capital and operating costs are essential.
Orders and enquiries for these pods have increased year-on-year in the fast-growing build-to-rent sector. In response, Offsite Solutions has expanded its product range to better meet this demand.
Life cycle costing is crucial for residential developers and BTR operators. GRP pods have a lifespan of at least 50 years, offering strong long-term value for retained assets.
Environmental benefits of GRP
GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) is light to transport, strong, highly durable, and requires significantly less energy to produce than steel or concrete. It is also 100% recyclable, making it a low-impact material choice.
Bespoke solutions and design support
Offsite Solutions’ design team collaborates with developers from the early stages of a project to engineer a GRP pod solution tailored to specific specifications and budgets.
Bath or shower pods can then be rolled out across multiple schemes, creating additional cost savings and delivering the advantages of standardisation while still achieving strong aesthetics and marketing appeal.
Exclusive panelised GRP technology
Offsite Solutions is the only UK pod specialist offering panelised GRP pod technology. This innovation ensures vertical walls and precise 90° corners—avoiding the tapered walls often seen in single-mould GRP pods.
This solution improves aesthetics and allows for easier integration with elements like standard door sets, reducing the need for additional on-site adjustments.
Fully finished pods delivered ready to install
As with all Offsite Solutions’ pods, bathrooms are delivered to site fully finished. Each pod includes a shower cubicle or bath with overhead shower, toilet, basin, cabinetry, towel rail, lighting, mirror, and vanity shelf—all pre-installed to factory quality standards.
The UK’s most extensive bathroom pod range
Offsite Solutions offers the UK’s largest range of bathroom pods to suit different building types and applications.
In addition to its GRP solutions, the company provides steel-framed bath and shower pods with porcelain-tiled finishes for high-end apartments, build-to-rent schemes, student residences, and hotels.
It has also developed steel-framed utility pods for apartments and studios in both build-to-rent and build-to-sell developments.
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