A perfectly designed custom built shower is the highlight of every bathroom. Great design is required for everything from a dream luxury shower, or a small functional shower. Custom built showers offer endless possibilities, which allows homeowners to tailor their space to match their individual preferences and practical needs. Choices range from materials to fixtures and shower seating. A custom shower design requires thoughtful plans, and the careful consideration of many factors such as space, accessibility, and style.
Benefits of Custom Built Showers
Custom built showers provide many advantages over standard prefabricated models. One of the most significant benefits is flexible design. Whether you prefer a minimalist, modern look or the atmosphere of a classic spa, custom showers are tailored to your vision. In addition, they offer superior durability and longevity. High quality materials like ceramic tile or natural stone withstand moisture and wear for many years. But please don’t forget that a custom built shower offers the ability to incorporate accessibility features, such as seating and grab bars for aging in place or other mobility concerns.
Designing The Perfect Custom Shower
A custom built shower starts with careful consideration, making the right choices, and planning.
Layout and Size Considerations
The first step in designing a custom built shower is the available space and ideal layout to maximize the function and form of that space. Larger bathrooms provide opportunities for walk in showers, multiple shower heads, and expansive seating. Smaller bathrooms require innovative space saving and storage solutions such as corner showers and glass enclosures. It is essential to balance the shower’s look with its function to ensure a relaxing and efficient shower experience.
Materials and Finishes
Selecting the right materials is crucial to aesthetics and durability. Each material has its own pros and cons. The choice of finishes, such as gloss, matte, or textured surfaces, further influences the overall look and feel of the shower.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles
There are many different types of tile, but ceramic tile is the most popular choice for custom showers because of its versatility, affordable cost, and durability. Tile comes with nearly endless color, pattern, and texture options to allow homeowners to build a truly unique custom built shower that compliments the rest of their bathroom design. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are highly resistant to moisture and ideal for shower spaces. In addition, they are easy to clean and maintain. Ceramic tile provides a practical, stylish option for every bathroom design.
Natural Stone
Natural stone is a luxurious choice for a high end shower. Materials such as marble, granite, and travertine are popular for their unique textures and rich color variation. Natural stone provides a stunning appearance, but it requires regular maintenance to prevent staining and water damage. Proper sealing is necessary to protect against moisture absorption and ensure the longevity of the stone. Homeowners who prioritize elegance and durability choose natural stone.
Glass Panels
Glass panels are a contemporary choice that enhances the feeling of openness and allows for better light distribution within a shower. Frameless glass enclosures provide a seamless minimalist look. This makes small bathrooms appear more spacious. The transparent glass shows off the intricate tilework and design details within the shower. To maintain clarity and prevent water spots, glass panels require regular cleaning with a squeegee and glass cleaners. Some homeowners choose frosted or textured glass for privacy with a modern look.
Water Fixtures and Features
Modern showers come with a variety of fixture options that range from traditional shower heads to luxurious multiple heads, steam showers, and rain showers. Modern fixtures allow homeowners to select multiple water sources, adjust pressure settings, and dial in the perfect temperature with digital controls.
Incorporating Custom Seating
Shower seating is an important part of custom shower design, and affects overall bathroom design. Seating allows homeowners to truly relax in the shower, and provides a safer experience for aging in place.
Benefits of Shower Seating
Adding seating to a shower improves comfort, convenience, and accessibility. Whether for relaxation, shaving, or accommodating individuals with mobility challenges, seating is a valuable addition to every custom shower. It enhances the look and function of the space.
Types of Shower Seating
There are a few types of shower seating for homeowners to choose from, depending on their individual needs.
Built In Benches
Built in benches are permanent, and they integrate seamlessly with the rest of the shower. These benches are typically built and tiled to match the shower walls and floors for perfect cohesion. Built in benches are sturdy, durable, and reliable. They provide comfort and support for extended shower sessions. In addition, benches can be customized in size and shape to fit the available space, whether spanning the length of a wall or only taking up a small corner.
Folding Seats
Folding seats are an excellent solution for smaller showers that offer flexibility. These seats are typically mounted to the shower wall and fold out of the way when used, for an efficient option that saves space. Folding seats come in a variety of materials such as plastic and stainless steel to ensure durability in a wet environment. They provide a secure seating option with easy cleaning and maintenance. These seats are particularly beneficial for temporary support and to add space in the shower when the seat is not needed.
Corner Benches
Corner benches maximize the use of a limited shower space, but still provide a comfortable and convenient seating area. These benches are typically triangular and fit neatly into the corner of the shower. No matter the size of the custom shower, a corner bench is a great feature to consider. Corner benches offer a place to sit and relax, or to perform tasks like shaving. Corner benches can be installed seamlessly into a custom tiled shower.
Freestanding Stools or Chairs
Freestanding stools and chairs offer flexibility and mobility in the shower space. Unlike built-in or mounted options, these seats may be moved and adjusted as needed. They come in various styles and materials designed to withstand moisture, such as bamboo, plastic, and metal. Freestanding stools are particularly useful for homeowners who want to position or remove their seating easily.
Accessibility and Safety Considerations
We build every custom shower with safety in mind, and are aging in place specialists. Features such as grab bars, non-slip flooring, and curbless or roll in entry enhance accessibility and prevent accidents. Handheld showerheads positioned near seating creates a convenient, accessible, and safe shower experience.
If you have questions about custom built showers, please Call or Email us for a free consultation.
