With space at a premium in many homes, fitting a shower into a compact bathroom can seem like a daunting challenge. But with clever design and planning, it's absolutely possible to build a shower in a small space that's both functional and stylish. In this guide, we'll explore how to make the most of your limited space, along with some top tips for creating a shower that's perfect for your small bathroom.
Before we dive into the specifics, it's crucial to understand your space and its limitations. Measure your bathroom carefully, and think about the layout and what you want from your shower. Do you need a shower over your bath? Or do you prefer a walk-in or wet room style? We'll tackle each of these options to help you make an informed decision.
Planning Your Shower Space
When planning your shower space, consider the size and shape of your bathroom. Corner showers are a great space-saving solution, making the most of awkward, triangular spaces. If your bathroom is particularly narrow, an L-shaped shower could be a perfect fit, extending the length of your bathroom but not eating into its width.
Don't forget to factor in any plumbing constraints. If your existing plumbing is in a fixed position, this may limit your shower placement options. However, a plumber or bathroom designer can help reroute pipes if necessary, opening up more possibilities for your shower layout.
Shower over Bath
A shower over bath combination is an excellent option for small spaces, maximizing your bathroom's functionality. Consider a shallower bath to save space, and opt for a side-filling or freestanding bath to keep the focus on the shower area. Using clear glass shower screens and frames helps to create a light, open feel, making your bathroom appear larger.
To add a touch of luxury, install a rainfall showerhead. While these may seem indulgent, they actually help to keep water usage down, as the larger droplets mean you don't need to run the water at as high a pressure. Choose a showerhead with an eco setting to further reduce water consumption.
Walk-in Showers and Wet Rooms
Walk-in showers and wet rooms are fantastic choices for small bathrooms, as they open up the space and create a feeling of luxury. For a walk-in shower, you'll need a shower tray or a tiled base that slopes towards the drain. Choose a low-profile tray or create a minimal threshold to maintain an open feel.
Wet rooms are even more space-efficient, as they don't require a shower tray or screen. Instead, the entire floor area is waterproofed, with a drain fitted at the lowest point. Wet rooms are particularly suitable for awkward or irregularly shaped spaces. However, they do require careful planning and waterproofing to prevent leaks and damage.
Designing Your Small Shower Space
After you've decided on the type of shower that best suits your space, it's time to think about the design. Keep the color scheme light and bright to reflect as much natural light as possible, making your bathroom feel larger. Use large format tiles to emphasize the space, and choose a seamless, minimalist style for your fixtures and fittings.
In terms of layout, consider a central rainhead shower with body jets on either side. This creates a luxurious spa-like experience while utilizing the limited wall space effectively. If you prefer a more traditional overhead shower, opt for a showerhead with a high arc, ensuring you can move freely around your shower area.
Storage Solutions
In a small shower, storage is essential to keep your bathroom clutter-free and organised. Built-in shelves and niches in the shower wall provide unity, while corner caddies and wall-mounted baskets keep your shower essentials within easy reach. Consider a wall-hung toilet cabinet or vanity unit to save space and create extra storage.
For a more streamlined look, incorporate closed storage solutions such as tiled-armoured cabinets or divisors with integrated shelves. These offer ample storage without breaking up the visual plane, helping your bathroom to feel more spacious.
Lighting and Ventilation
Good lighting is crucial in a small bathroom, both for practicality and to enhance the sense of space. Install a combination of task lighting around the mirror and ambient overhead lighting to create a well-lit, welcoming atmosphere. Consider adding LED spots within the shower area to maximise control and safety.
Proper ventilation is also vital in a small room that generates a lot of steam. Install an extractor fan to prevent moisture from building up and causing damage to your bathroom. A window or roof vent can also help to circulate air, although these may not be practical in all small bathrooms.
In a small bathroom, every design decision counts. By carefully planning your shower space and incorporating clever storage solutions, you can create a beautiful, functional shower that maximizes your small space. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and explore unusual layouts and designs to make the most of your unique bathroom.