Having a small shower can be challenging when trying to design a functional and stylish space, but it’s certainly possible with some clever planning and creative solutions. A thoughtfully designed small shower can still feel spacious and luxurious. In this article, we’ll explore some fantastic small shower ideas to make the most of your compact shower. From space-saving layouts and storage solutions to materials and stylish finishes, read on for tips, tricks, and inspiration!
Choosing the Right Layout for a Small Shower
One of the keys to a successful small shower design is choosing the right layout and configuration. Carefully planning where to place fixtures and accessories can help maximize your available space. Here are some popular layout options to consider:
Corner Showers
Tucking a shower into a corner is a smart way to make the most of a small bathroom footprint. This creates two walls to mount fixtures and provides ample space. Glass doors can open outwards, avoiding obstructing the shower entrance. Corner showers also leave more free floor space compared to centered layouts.
Alcove Showers
Alcove showers are recessed into a small niche in the wall, framed by three walls. This self-contained design works well in tight spaces. Just be sure to allow for proper ventilation. Alcoves can feature glass doors or curtains. Go for sliding doors that don’t impede access.
Neo-angle Showers
A neo-angle shower design features a main angled wall meeting a perpendicular back wall. The angled footprint helps open up more interior space than a basic square or rectangle shape. The angled wall also allows for interesting asymmetrical tile designs.
Curbless Showers
Eliminating a shower curb allows for completely flush entry and exit. This makes the shower feel more expansive and seamless within a small bathroom. Just be sure your bathroom has adequate drainage. Curbless designs work best for walk-in showers.
Half Walls & Glass Barriers
Incorporating a half wall or glass panel as a shower boundary can visually open up a small space rather than being fully enclosed. This works best for modern, minimalist aesthetics. Just account for increased splashing.
Choosing Small Shower Fixtures
Strategically choosing your shower fixtures is essential to maximize function and aesthetics. Compact fixtures designed for small showers can provide full functionality without cluttering your space.
Rainfall Showerheads
An adjustable rainfall showerhead mounted overhead can offer a luxurious spa-like experience even in a small shower. Opt for a compact 8-10 inch diameter size. This leaves room for a hand shower or normal showerhead if needed.
Handheld Showerheads
Having a handheld showerhead provides flexibility to direct water where needed in a compact space. Look for one with multiple settings and an adjustable slide bar for improved reach.
Space-Saving Doors
Glass shower doors, especially frameless designs, enhance aesthetics and make rooms feel more open. Sliding doors are ideal for small showers to avoid obstructing entry. A pivot door can work for corner showers.
Recessed Niches
Strategically placing shampoo, soap, razors, and other necessities into built-in recessed niches helps declutter shower floors. Position niches at easy to reach heights.
Compact Controls
Minimal, low-profile shower controls help save space while allowing easy access. Rainfall showerheads sometimes feature controls right on the overhead fixture itself.
Corner Benches
A compact corner bench can allow seating while also providing storage underneath. This takes advantage of often underutilized space. Just be sure it doesn’t obstruct movement.
Using Materials Effectively
Using appropriate shower materials can enhance the feeling of space, as well as provide the style you’re after. Consider how color, patterns, textures, and other material factors play into your design.
Glass Block Walls
Glass block walls allow natural light into a shower. They have a clean, modern aesthetic and make small showers feel more open than solid tiles. Just account for decreased privacy.
Large Tile Format
Oversized tiles or stone slabs help walls and floors appear more expansive with fewer seams disrupting sight lines. This seamless look works especially well for contemporary styles.
Mirrored Walls
Strategically placed mirrors instantly double your shower’s visual space. Situate a mirror across from glass doors or another reflective surface for added depth. Just avoid mirrors facing the showerhead to prevent spray back.
River Rock Floors
River rock or pebble flooring brings nature indoors for a soothing vibe. The smooth stones have an anti-slip texture underfoot. Limit river rock to the floor area for easier maintenance.
Neutral Colors
Sticking with light, neutral colors like white, tan, or gray keeps the shower looking clean and spacious. Contrasting grout lines also stand out more clearly against neutral backdrops.
Clever Storage Solutions
Finding places to tuck away all your shower necessities helps keep the space free of clutter. Take advantage of every nook and cranny for smart storage spots that also look stylish.
Wall-Hung Cabinets
Installing wall cabinets, shelves or organizational units above the toilet provides out-of-the-way storage. Choose water-resistant materials and close items in baskets for a tidy look.
Shower Niches
In addition to recessed niches, consider corner shelves, hanging shelves, or caddies. Position organizers at varying heights for ease of use by all household members.
Shower Benches
Look for shower benches that double as storage units. Lift-up designs conceal interior compartments. Or select a bench with built-in shelves underneath.
Razor Niches
Dedicated razor niches keep razors and toiletries organized and at hand. Position them away from direct water spray but still within reach.
Magnetic Strips
Add magnetic strips or ledges on shower walls for easily accessible storage. The magnetic force keeps bottles and razors in place but allows you to remove them as needed.
Small Shower Ideas: Stylish Design Touches
Don’t think your dream shower has to be spacious. Even a small shower can make a statement and reflect your personal style with some special touches.
Frameless Glass Doors
Frameless glass shower doors appear modern and sleek. This allows more light into the shower interior and highlights elegant tiles. Go for clear glass or add some opacity for privacy.
River Rock Accents
Use river rock and pebbles selectively as shower accents to tie in nature. Line the floor in front of the shower, fill corner niches or display in glass containers.
Wood Panel Accents
Incorporate reclaimed wood panels or planks as an accent wall or on the shower ceiling. The warm, organic wood texture contrasts beautifully with tile and glass.
Smart Lighting
Thoughtful lighting makes any shower feel bright and inviting. Pot lights, sconces and LED strips all illuminate without taking up valuable space.
Rainfall Shower Panels
Rain panels or shower towers with multiple showerheads create a luxurious spa experience. Position one corner panel to allow for generous coverage without overwhelming a compact shower.
Contrasting Materials
Use contrasting textures and colors to delineate shower zones. For example, a river rock floor for the “wet area” and wood-look porcelain tiles on perimeter walls.
FAQs About Small and Narrow Showers
How small is too small for a shower?
While it depends on your needs, most design experts recommend a minimum shower size of 32-36 inches wide by 36-40 inches deep. This allows comfortable standing and arm range of motion. Small does not need to mean uncomfortable!
What type of shower door is best for small bathrooms?
For most small showers, a sliding glass door is ideal to prevent obstruction when opening. Frameless, partially frosted, or textured glass styles also suit small spaces. Pivot doors can work well for corner showers.
Should I get a rain shower head for a small shower?
Overhead rain shower heads can absolutely work in small showers for an invigorating sensory experience. Just opt for smaller 8-10 inch diameter styles instead of a full drenching rainfall fixture. Or install a rain panel on just one wall.
How can I make a small shower feel bigger?
Use frameless doors, large tile formats, corner shelves, recessed niches, neutral colors, and proper lighting to open up sight lines. Strategically placed mirrors also visually expand space. A curbless entry adds seamlessness and flow.
What flooring is best for small showers?
Large tile or stone slabs help minimize grout lines that break up floors. Pebble and river rock floors add natural texture. Small mosaic tiles can work with proper slope and drainage. Avoid busy patterns that clutter the look.
How can I add storage to my small shower?
Take advantage of organizational shower niches, enclosed benches, on-wall cabinets, corner ledges, magnetic strips, and multi-function caddies. Also look above your shower toilet for added storage potential.
Should I get a rainfall shower and handheld combo?
Having both overhead and handheld shower components allows you to enjoy intense rainfall spray along with the maneuverability of a handheld. Look for space-saving low-profile rain heads and slide bar mounted hand showers.
Final Thoughts on Fabulous Small Showers
When designed thoughtfully, small showers can be just as inviting and useful as more generously sized spaces. Focus on smart layouts and multipurpose pieces to eliminate clutter and wasted space. Take advantage of compact and wall-mounted fixtures that suit tight footprints. Infuse personal style with materials, textures, colors and decorative accents. Don’t shy away from spa-worthy features like rain heads, benches and niches. With clever solutions, you can create a small shower that perfectly meets your needs with beauty and functionality.
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