Designing a shower sounds simple… until you realize there are like 47 decisions hiding behind that one word. Size, layout, tile, fixtures, drains, glass, benches… suddenly you’re standing in a showroom wondering how something you use half-asleep every morning became so intense. The good news? Once you understand the key pieces, it all starts to click. Here’s how to think through design in a way that’s practical, elevated, and actually enjoyable.

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Shower Size

It’s tempting to go as large as possible, but oversized showers can backfire. The bigger the space, the harder it is to keep warm. No one wants to feel like they’re showering in a slightly damp warehouse. Our rule of thumb is typically to not go larger than 5′ x 5′ or 5′ x 7′. It gives you enough room to move comfortably without losing that cozy, steamy warmth!

Benches

Shower benches are one of those features people rarely regret adding. They’re practical for shaving, relaxing, or just setting things down. When it comes to materials, we typically recommend a tile bench or a quartz (or stone) slab top. Tile blends seamlessly, while a quartz top offers a cleaner look with fewer grout lines.

You can also take it a step further with a heated bench. Not a necessity, but definitely one of those small luxuries that feels very worth it on a cold morning!

Niches

Shower niches are essential for keeping products organized, but the design matters more than people expect. Think about size and quantity. One small niche often isn’t enough, especially in shared spaces. Multiple niches or one longer horizontal niche can be more functional. We like to go for at least 24″ wide x 12″ high.

For finishes, you can go with:

• Matching tile for a seamless look
• Accent tile to create a focal point
• Prefabricated niches for a simpler install

Shower Heads

At minimum, every shower normally has a standard head. Some homeowners opt for two heads, especially in larger showers or shared spaces. You can choose to put them on opposite walls or the same wall next to each other.

Rain heads are popular for their spa-like feel, typically mounted on the ceiling or high on the wall. Just keep in mind they’re more about experience than efficiency.

Hand showers are one of the most practical additions. It makes cleaning the area easier and is helpful for washing pets, kids, or just rinsing quickly.

Steam Showers

If you’re considering a steam shower, the design requirements change significantly. They require additional equipment and planning, but the result is a true spa-like experience at home!

Steam showers need to be fully enclosed and properly sealed to contain moisture. That means:

• Waterproofing the entire space, including walls and ceiling
• Tiling the ceiling
• Designing for proper slope and drainage

Curbs vs. Curbless Showers

Most showers have a standard curb, which helps keep water contained. But more homeowners are choosing curbless (zero-entry) showers. To achieve this, the subfloor is typically dropped during construction to allow for proper drainage.

Curbless showers offer:

• A clean, modern look
• Easier access
• Long-term benefits for aging in place

Glass Door or Shower Curtain?

Glass doors create a clean, open look and allow tile work to be fully visible. They make the space feel larger and more polished, but they do come with a higher cost.

Curtains are more budget-friendly and flexible. They’re easier to replace and can soften the look of a space, but they won’t have the same elevated feel as glass.

Drain Options

Center drains are the most common and typically require sloping the floor from all sides. Linear drains are a more modern option, usually placed along one wall or at the entrance of the shower. They allow for a single-direction slope, which works especially well in curbless designs and with larger format tile. There is also tilable drains that a more of a seamless look!

Final Thoughts

A well-designed shower isn’t just about how it looks. It’s about how it functions every single day. Think about how many people will use it, what products you need to store, how warm you want it to feel, and what features will actually make your routine easier. When you get those details right, your space becomes more than just a place to get ready. It becomes one of the most enjoyable spaces in your home.

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