If you have read some of our other blog posts, you will know that we strive to recommend simple ways to add style and value to your home.
Bathrooms are a popular topic of discussion for many people. Some view it as a place of refuge and a peaceful spa retreat. Others choose to upgrade because it’s a less expensive room to remodel than a kitchen. Shower niches, in either case, are a simple way to create a luxurious feel while also adding additional space for movement. They appear straightforward, but there are several alternatives and approaches to consider.
Shape and Structure
For an easier discussion, let’s start with the basic general shape of shower niches. Below are some ideas to explore.
Horizontal – This is exactly what it sounds like. The niche is longer than it is tall, making it more suitable for families who buy multiple sizes of shampoo and body wash.
Vertical shower niche
Vertical – The opposite of horizontal, vertical shower niches often include shelves to create a tidy way to organize bottles and jars in the shower.
Oversize – Usually square-ish in shape, oversized shower niches can add a spa-like flourish, even if the size doesn’t have a reason to be that way.
Multiple shower niches
Multiple – Multiple shower niches can be helpful when multiple people use the shower or if you have several products to organize. Then expand the number of niches. However, less is more. This also applies to shower niches. It’s only pleasing when it doesn’t overpower the rest of the shower.
multi-height shower niche
Multi-height – This option multiple heights within the same niche. Think of this game as kind of like a Tetris piece. It includes a shorter section as well as taller sections that are linked to one another. There’s no real reason to have it, but it looks pretty, and in a larger shower, it’s even more dramatic.
Which brings us to…
Design
In addition to these different structural configurations, there are a variety of design choices.
Finished stainless steel shower niche
Finished vs. Custom – You can simply fill a shower nook with a prefabricated stainless steel or copper fitting or other materials. It is entirely up to you if you prefer to go with a pre-made niche for your shower or have your contractor make you a custom tile niche; however, custom-made is more costly.
Oversized blend-in vertical shower niche
Blend in – This design works well because it incorporates the decorative details used in the rest of the shower, so the shape, not the design, stands out.
Decorative shower niche
Decorative – A decorative niche uses a tile or material different from the rest of the shower and is made of tile or decorative material. Sometimes those who choose this option go with an oversized shape. This can be a design risk, so make sure you talk to your designer for their opinion too. If done right, this can be striking.
Framed – Regardless of the shape or design of your shower niche, a frame can add a bold touch. This option is mostly used for contrast.
Horizontal shower niche with hidden LED lighting
Hidden Lighting – Out of all the shower niche options, this is the most surefire way to add a romantic spa ambiance to your shower. The lights must be waterproof, of course, but it’s surprisingly affordable.
Regardless of what style or shape you prefer, a shower niche is an excellent idea for your master, spare, or basement bath. Forget about over-the-shower-head caddies. Shower niches give you the space you need and the design that will impress guests.
