Have you ever envied those luxurious walk-in showers you see in magazines or high-end hotels? With their spaciousness and sleek, modern design, they can make a bathroom feel like a relaxing spa retreat. The good news is you don’t need an unlimited renovation budget or palatial primary bathroom space to enjoy the benefits of a walk-in shower. With some smart planning and customization, you can create your dream walk-in shower.
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The Appeal of Walk-In Showers
According to home building site Houzz, the average size for a walk-in shower is 36-49 square feet, with ultra-luxe models going up to 100+ square feet.
Compared to cramped shower/tub combos, standard shower stalls, or even shower curtains, walk-in showers offer some nice perks:
- More elbow room to lather up and rinse off
- Keep the rest of the bathroom dry by containing water spray
- Contemporary, clean look for modern bathroom style
- Doorless access or glass doors/panels maintain an airy, open aesthetic
- Customize with your choice of layout, size, materials, and more
That spaciousness and freedom of movement make a walk-in shower appealing for both utility and comfort. The clean, uncluttered style also achieves a spa-like vibe.
If your primary bathroom or primary bath is due for a makeover, incorporating a walk-in shower is one design idea that can completely transform the space and function of the entire bathroom.
Shapes and Sizes for Walk-In Showers
One of the best aspects of installing a customized walk-in shower is tailoring the size and shape to work best for your bathroom’s dimensions and layout. Some options to consider:
- Standard rectangles and squares: The most basic shape for walk-in shower designs. Allows for easy installation, especially if placed in a corner.
- Full-wall width for small bathrooms: Makes use of limited floor space and opens up the room.
- Curved and angular designs: Break up hard corners to add modern or contemporary flair.
- Extra-large for open floor plans: Create a wow factor focal point with an oversized walk-in shower as a divider between the toilet/sink area.
Measure carefully to determine what walk-in shower dimensions allow ample space without dominating your entire bathroom. Mapping out sizes on graph paper is helpful before installing.
As far as walk-in shower ideas – go as big as your budget and bathroom layout permits for the utmost luxury factor.
Customize Your Walk-In Shower Interior
Now comes the fun part – choosing finishes, accessories, and high-end fixtures to customize your walk-in shower interior:
Waterproof Flooring
- Tile: From basic white subway tiles to intricate patterns or stone tiles, waterproof ceramic/porcelain tile locks together for a seamless look.
- Glass tile: Adds unique visual interest on walls or floors for a glamorous effect.
- Quartz: Made from crushed quartz, this durable non-porous flooring looks upscale.
Shower Wall Options
- Glass block: Let light shine through artfully placed blocks on one wall.
- Textured tile: Contrast smooth floors with stone-look tile or add some whimsy with Moroccan fish scale tile patterns.
- Color blocking: Use large-format tiles of alternating colors/textures.
- Natural stone: Marble, travertine or slate exude elegance (but test stones for water slipperiness).
Walk-In Shower Doors
- Frameless glass enclosure: Unobstructed views for an airy, spa-like vibe. Based on research from the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), frameless glass doors are the most popular walk-in shower design, preferred by 67% of homeowners.
- Partial glass wall: Combine with tile walls for a modern style.
- Custom glass mosaic: Make a real style statement with colorful glass tiles forming abstract patterns.
Plumbing Fixtures & Accessories
- Rainfall showerhead: Nothing says luxury like an oversized showerhead for a drenching downpour effect. Include a standard showerhead too for flexible options.
- Body jets: Strategically place these gentle water streams targeting sore muscles in the back or feet.
- Shower bench: Built-in seating makes using the space easier for older, disabled, or little ones.
- Niches & shelves: Hold toiletries within arm’s reach and keep the shower area clutter-free.
Get creative mixing and matching walk-in shower ideas to design your ideal relaxing and revitalizing shower sanctuary.
Relax in Your Custom Spa Retreat
Once properly sealed and waterproofed, a thoughtfully designed walk-in shower adds beauty and value to any home. Cast aside boring bathtub/shower combos in favor of a contemporary walk-in model to relax and rejuvenate in a luxurious style.
With strategically placed body jets, massaging rainfall showerheads, and sleek lines, your new spa-worthy shower provides a soothing sensory experience. Surround yourself with stunning glass tile accents, natural stone surfaces, and accessories tailored to your lifestyle.
Treat yourself to the custom shower of your dreams – you may never want to leave your bathroom sanctuary again! Reclaim what was once wasted square footage to install an open, airy walk-in model with all the high-end trimmings.
Did you find these walk-in shower design ideas inspiring? Share which layouts or luxe add-ons you’d love for revamping your primary bath. Get motivated to call contractors for quotes – your dream shower oasis awaits!
