The Functional Built-In Shower Feature That Adds A Spa-Like Luxury Look

A bathroom should always feel soothing and calming — but usefulness is most important. You'll want to make sure each element of your bathroom is optimized to be used by the entire family. This is especially true of the shower space, which could easily be the biggest area of the room. But even a small shower space can be outfitted with important improvements that make a significant difference. To make sure the shower is safe and offers storage to keep your favorite products within reach, consider the addition of practical shelves and a place to sit.

A modern seat will provide safety for older family members as well as fashion and function in the shower space. Creating a built-in bench could be the ideal shower upgrade that will make you never want to get out, plus it can hold toiletries or towels when the shower is not in use. The most important trait to remember is that the bench — no matter the shape or size — must be waterproof and resistant to heat. This can be achieved by using the same tile material that lines the shower walls to cover the bench, which will also guarantee a cohesive and intentional look. 

Also, adding a custom built-in niche to the existing shower wall will utilize space that would otherwise be vacant by making a convenient, designated spot for soaps and shampoos to reside. HGTV's Emily Henderson advises that it should measure at least 12 inches tall to fully accommodate toiletries. 

The benefits of enhancing the shower with new seating and shelving are plentiful. The addition of a built-in bench will make the space safer and will increase the value of the bathroom and the home overall. According to Zillow, renovations like this that make the shower more accessible pique the interest of potential home buyers and could see as much as a 61% return on investment. (Adding an upscale shower cubby could see up to 42% return on investment as well.) The cost should not be overwhelming, as deciding where you should place your shower bench will not require making a major structural change to the shower's layout. 

Inclusion of a built-in niche will also allow you to create visual contrast in the shower to make the entire bathroom look even more design-savvy. For example, if you have an all-white bathroom that includes a shower of classic subway tile, black shelving would add a hint of drama. You may even choose a different pattern, material, or texture to accent the fixture and make the built-in shelf stand out. A custom tile or mosaic nook looks elegant and exclusive when installed within a marble bathroom space, plus it will bring attention to the functionality and utility of the shelf. Or, try a wood-look visual for a rustic touch that will serve as a focal point in tile or stone showers.