Designing the perfect shower for your bathroom requires careful planning and consideration. The shower is likely used daily, and should be optimized for function, aesthetics, and efficiency. Follow these 10 expert tips to create a beautiful and high-performing shower space.
Choose the Right Shower Type
The first and most critical decision is selecting the right overall shower design for your needs and space. Key options include:
Walk-in Showers
Walk-in showers eliminate the need for a door or curtain and create an open, accessible showering area. This contemporary style works well for modern, spa-like baths. Consider a curbless entry for seamless accessibility.
Neo-angle Showers
The neo-angle shower is set against a corner, with the front being a sharp angle rather than a curve. This creates a spacious feeling while efficiently using the corner space. Glass doors maintain an open look.
Corner Showers
Corner showers maximize small spaces by fitting tightly into a corner. Rounding the glass enclosure creates a softer, more fluid look. Using a pivot door improves access.
Tub/Shower Combos
Many bathrooms combine a traditional bathtub with a shower in one unit. Choose between shower curtains or glass doors for the enclosure. This classic option fits most spaces.
Select the Right Size Shower
Consider how many people will regularly use the shower and how much room they need. Standard sizes include:
- 36 x 36 inches – Fits one person with room to move
- 42 x 42 inches – Comfortably fits two people
- 48 x 48 inches – Ideal for two people with extra room
Measure carefully to ensure your planned shower will properly fit the space. Factor in the thickness of materials like tile and glass when calculating. An oversized shower can make the room feel out of balance.
Choose Durable, Waterproof Materials
The shower interior will get wet daily, so all materials must be completely waterproof and able to withstand moisture.
Tile
Natural stone like granite, marble, or travertine add elegance. Ceramic or porcelain tile is affordable and comes in endless colors. Select slip-resistant tiles with rough faces for safety.
Glass Doors/Enclosures
Frameless glass adds an airy, open look. Choose frosted or textured glass for privacy. Add aluminum trim for a finished edge.
Alternative Waterproof Materials
Metal, acrylic, and molded fiberglass kits are options for full-surround waterproof enclosures. Plastic and resin wall panels are affordable and come in many textures.
Select Fixtures that Complement the Design
The plumbing fixtures should blend with the overall shower aesthetic.
Showerheads
Full-coverage rainfall showerheads provide a luxurious soak. Multi-function heads offer massage sprays. Handheld showerheads add accessibility.
Faucets
Look for single-handle faucets that control temperature with one lever. Pick a polished chrome or brushed nickel finish. Integrate handheld showerheads into the faucet.
Drains
A center drain creates a sleek, seamless look. Linear drains run along a wall side. Select a removable drain cover that matches the shower pan material.
Additional Spa Features
Consider adding body sprays, a shower bench, or steam generator for a spa-like experience.
Include Adequate Lighting
Proper illumination is key in the shower for safety and function.
Ceiling Lights
Pot lights add sleek, recessed lighting directly above the shower. Waterproof fixtures are essential.
Sconces
Wall mounted fixtures or sconces provide ambient lighting and style outside the water’s reach.
Natural Light
Skylights, frosted glass block walls, and clear glass shower doors maximize natural light.
Ventilate to Reduce Moisture and Mold
Water vapor from hot showers can damage surfaces and promote mold growth.
Exhaust Fan
Install a ceiling exhaust fan ducted outside to actively ventilate steam. Choose an ENERGY STAR model with a humidity sensor.
Passive Ventilation
Operable skylights, wall louvers, and undercut doors allow moist air to escape passively.
Regulate Shower Water Temperature
A sudden blast of too hot or too cold water is an unpleasant surprise.
Pressure Balancing Valves
These valves automatically balance water pressure and output temperature for consistent comfort.
Thermostatic Valves
These valves allow users to pre-set a maximum water temperature. This prevents accidental scalding.
Choose Heated Surfaces
Warming tiles underfoot and heated mirrors keep away shower chills.
Radiant Floor Heating
Electric radiant heat beneath the floor warms tiles from below. This keeps feet cozy.
Defogging Mirrors
Integrated defoggers in the mirror glass prevent fog and ensure clear visibility.
Design an Accessible Shower Space
Curbless entries, grab bars, and slip-resistant textures make showers safer and more usable for all ages and mobility levels. Follow ADA guidelines for ideal accessibility.
Curbless Entry
A flush transition into the shower removes tripping hazards. Linear drains facilitate the curbless design.
Grab Bars
Strategically place sturdy grab bars following ADA guidelines. This aids entry and exit and provides stability.
Textured Surfaces
Small tiles, slip-resistant coatings, and pebble floors provide friction underfoot, reducing slips.
Adjustable/Handheld Elements
Adjustable showerheads and handrails accommodate diverse users. Removable benches offer seating options.
Choose Durable, Easy-Clean Finishes
The shower endures a lot of wear and tear. Select inherently water-resistant materials that also resist stains, soap scum build-up, and mold growth.
Non-Porous Surfaces
Solid surfaces like quartz resist absorption and staining. This simplifies cleaning.
Mold-Resistant Materials
Mold-fighting grout, caulk and tile backing prevent mildew growth in wet conditions.
Easy-Clean Finishes
Gloss and semi-gloss finishes repel grime compared to flat or matte. Silver-coated stainless steel resists corrosion.
Create Storage Solutions
The shower area offers many options for discreetly tucking away bath necessities.
Niches
Small recessed niches in the shower wall securely hold bottles and knickknacks. Choose waterproof niche covers.
Corner Shelves
Triangular corner shelves fit neatly into wasted space. Look for coated metal shelves with a lip to prevent falling bottles.
Caddies
Hanging shower caddies conveniently store brushes, razors, soaps and shampoos within arm’s reach.
FAQs
How big should my shower be?
Standard shower sizes range from 36 x 36 inches for one person up to 48 x 48 inches for two. Measure carefully to ensure your planned shower properly fits your available space.
What are the best materials for shower walls?
Tile, stone, and glass are premium touchable surfaces for shower walls. Fiberglass and acrylic kits create full waterproof surrounds. Plastic or resin wall panels are budget-friendly options.
How do I choose shower flooring?
Prioritize slip resistance by selecting textured tile or stone. Mosaic tiles provide added grip. Coat smooth surfaces like concrete with anti-slip treatments. Opt for a matte over glossy finish.
What should I know about shower doors?
- Frameless glass doors provide an unobstructed view and modern aesthetic.
- Choose frosted or textured glass for increased privacy.
- Clean glass with vinegar-based cleaners to prevent soap scum buildup.
- Look for pivot hinges and magnetic closures for ease of opening and closing.
How do I keep my shower mold-free?
- ventilate moisture with a powerful exhaust fan
- eliminate surface mildew immediately with chlorine bleach
- install mold resistant shower surfaces like tile and metal
- caulk and seal all joints to prevent water intrusion
- keep surfaces clean and dry to discourage mold growth
Conclusion
Designing the ideal shower is an exciting challenge that balances form and function. Keep practical needs like space, durability, and safety foremost in mind, while also allowing your personal style to shine through in the finishes and fixtures. Planning critical details like size, layout, lighting, and accessories upfront will ensure your new shower delivers an invigorating, spa-like daily experience. With these expert tips in mind, you can craft a shower oasis perfectly tailored to you and your home.
