Shower design tips

Your shower is more than just a functional space, it's where you likely begin each morning and often unwind after long days. Creating the perfect shower environment balances practical needs with design elements that make your entire bathroom experience so much better. Whether you're renovating from scratch or simply giving your bathroom a much-needed refresh, rethinking your shower layout and finishes can completely change how the space feels and functions. It’s not just about the aesthetic (though we’re all for a beautiful tile moment) it’s about getting the layout, storage, and flow just right so your daily routine feels effortless.

From walk-in showers to clever corner setups, we’re breaking down everything you need to know to design a shower that’s big on both style and smarts. We’ll guide you through practical tips like choosing the right shower head, maximising smaller spaces, and building in storage that doesn’t kill your vibe.

So if you’re dreaming of a bathroom that balances beautiful design and function and makes you feel like you’ve got it all together, even before coffee, this one’s for you.

Before you dive into tile selections and fixtures, getting your shower layout right is key to creating a bathroom that works for your needs. The layout you choose affects everything from how your bathroom feels to how easily you can move around in the space. Here are three popular options that balance form and function in different ways.

When looking for walk-in shower ideas, consider how they create an open, spacious feeling even in average sized bathrooms by cutting out bulky doors and frames. The doorless design gives you unrestricted movement and makes the shower accessible for everyone, regardless of age or mobility. Doorless walk-in shower ideas should include a slight slope in the floor and a discreet drainage system to keep water from escaping. Glass panels provide splash protection while keeping that airy, open feel that makes walk-in showers so popular in modern bathroom designs.

Corner shower designs make the most of smaller bathrooms by using space that often goes to waste. These space-saving options can feature either curved or angled glass doors that open outward to save sought-after bathroom floor space. If you're really tight on room, sliding doors work better than swing-out options. Corner showers can be made to feel bigger with recessed storage like a niche for all your shower essentials and light toned tiles to not overwhelm the space.

Wet room designs get rid of barriers between your shower area and the rest of the bathroom for a seamless, modern look. The entire bathroom floor is waterproofed and slightly sloped toward a central drain, allowing for an open shower area without steps or enclosures. This barrier-free design is great for accessibility while giving your bathroom a high-end look. When planning a wet room, make sure you've got proper waterproofing throughout and think about heated flooring to quickly dry surfaces after showering.

Your choice of shower head impacts your daily shower experience, from water coverage to water pressure. Finding the right one for your bathroom means considering both function and feeling while making sure it works with your home plumbing. Here's a breakdown of popular shower head options..

Rainfall shower heads give you a gentle, immersive experience that feels like standing in natural rain. Ceiling-mounted options provide the most authentic rainfall feeling, directing water straight down from above for even coverage. Wall-mounted rainfall heads have an arm that comes from the wall, offering similar benefits while being easier to install in existing bathrooms without needing to explore ceiling plumbing. Both styles create a beautiful shower experience, but need decent water pressure and ceiling height to work properly.

Handheld showerheads offer unbeatable versatility for washing, cleaning the shower itself, and working for users of different heights. Modern designs come with comfortable grips, multiple spray patterns, and long, flexible hoses to reach anywhere you need. When installing a handheld shower, put the wall bracket at a height everyone in your home can reach. This practical option is especially valuable for families with kids, pet owners, and anyone with mobility considerations.

Combination systems bring together fixed overhead and handheld showerheads to give you complete flexibility. While offering the best of both worlds, these systems need careful installation in smaller spaces so they don't make things feel cramped. Go for a streamlined design with a single valve control system and matching finishes for a put-together look.

For more information on choosing the right shower head, check out our blog.

Getting your storage right is the first step to keeping your shower tidy and functional every day. Smart storage solutions eliminate clutter while adding to the overall look of your shower space. Here are three effective options that combine practicality with style to level up your shower experience.

Recessed shower niches provide neat storage solutions that don't stick out into your shower space. By building storage directly into the wall cavity, these built-in shelves keep your shampoo and soap bottles organised and easy to reach while maintaining clean shower lines. Place niches at mid torso height and away from direct water spray for the best functionality.

Half-height shelves offer practical storage without requiring major wall reconstruction. These partial wall shelves give you convenient spots for frequently used items while also serving as a design feature that breaks up large tile areas. When adding half-height niches, line them up with tile grout lines for a seamless look. For information on the difference between shower shelves and a niche, check out our previous blog.

Shower benches combine comfort with practicality, giving you a place to sit while showering or to prop up a foot. Built-in benches provide the cleanest look and can be designed as floating features to keep floor visibility or as solid structures. When adding a bench, ensure proper waterproofing and a slight forward slope for drainage.

Whether you're leaning towards an open, doorless walk-in shower design, a space-efficient corner shower, or a minimalist wet room, your shower should reflect both your personal style and practical needs.

The right combination of layout, showerhead, and built-in storage creates a shower that's not just beautiful but ready for everyday use. Remember that small changes like adding a bench or recessed niche can make a huge difference to how your shower works for you.

With these shower design tips in mind, you're well on your way to creating a bathroom space that starts and ends your day on the perfect note. For more bathroom inspiration and quality products to bring your shower ideas to life, explore our full range of shower solutions and bathroom accessories.