You can now listen to this article using the audio player above.
Custom walk-in shower designs are often sought for their combination of personalized design and necessary functionality. The best showers by today's standards will include a level of luxury along with added touches for comfort. Homeowners are increasingly seeking out custom shower designs that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of their bathrooms but also offer practical benefits such as lower maintenance and modern convenience. In this article, we'll explore some of the latest trends and concepts in custom shower design that cater to these needs.
Minimalist Shower Enclosures
One trend in custom shower design that's taken off is the use of a minimalist, frameless shower enclosure. These enclosures can help make a bathroom feel more open and spacious, and the lack of metal frames can simplify cleaning by reducing places where soap scum and mildew can accumulate. Opting for high-quality coated glass that repels water and reduces streaks will keep the shower looking pristine with minimal effort. Additionally, consider incorporating a curbless entry for a fully seamless transition from the bathroom floor into the shower, which also enhances safety by eliminating trip hazards.
Luxurious Durable Materials
The choice of materials in a custom shower can significantly impact both its beauty and functionality. Pairing accents of eye-catching tiles with neutral field tiles in durable materials is a popular choice for a practical appearance that still feels bespoke. Slabs or tiles made from natural stone make for a high-end look that's easy to wipe down. Large format field tiles or tiles that can be installed very close together will reduce the amount of exposed grout lines, making the shower easier to clean and maintain. For a cohesive look, consider using the same field tiles in other parts of the bathroom to create an expansive feel throughout the space. Tiles with unique designs, colors, or shapes used in niches, on the floor, or in decorative bands can help enhance visual interest. Mixing materials also helps define the shape and size of the shower, which can help with accessibility.
Custom Shower Niches and Benches
Incorporating built-in niches and benches into the shower design provides functionality and aesthetic value. Shower niches provide convenient storage for toiletries, keeping them within easy reach, making the experience of showering less awkward and more intuitive. Benches provide a place to sit, making the shower more accessible and comfortable. Niches and benches can be fully customized to accommodate your specific needs and to work with the space you have. These features also offer you an opportunity to add additional materials and colors to your design plan, which can further enhance the custom feel.
Multi-function Shower Systems
Multi-function shower systems combine various fixtures, such as different types of showerheads, body jets, and steam generators, to offer a comprehensive and customizable showering experience. Couples may also desire to combine systems to create multiple zones in larger showers that cater to each person’s specific needs. Planning out and designing the shower fixtures as a complete system allows the shower to be installed properly for the best efficiency and plumbing. To further enhance the experience, consider installing a digital control panel or a voice-activated smart connection that lets you preset water temperature, flow rates, and spray settings. This feature not only enhances the ease of use but also adds modern convenience to your shower.
Designing a custom shower that balances beauty, functionality, and safety is an achievable goal with the right choices. By incorporating a minimalist look, luxurious materials, customized features, and multi-functional systems, you can create a shower space that is stunning, enjoyable to be in, easy to maintain, and does the job perfectly.
