Beyond the Bath: How to Create a Luxe Walk-In Shower with Smart Features & Style
- Ash Plumbing & Bathrooms
- Oct 22
- 3 min read
More homeowners are saying goodbye to bulky bathtubs and hello to walk-in showers - and it’s easy to see why. Sleek, spacious, and easy to maintain, a well-designed walk-in shower can completely transform how a bathroom looks and functions.
Whether you’re planning a full bathroom renovation or simply replacing your bath with a more practical, luxurious alternative, this guide explores how to design a walk-in shower that feels both stylish and thoughtfully considered.
Layout & Space Planning
Removing a bath opens up more floor area than most people realise - but getting the layout right is key. Think about how you move around the room and where natural light falls. A walk-in shower should feel open and inviting, not boxed in.
Placement matters:Â Position your shower where it makes the most sense for drainage and flow, ideally keeping pipework changes to a minimum.
Screen or open? Frameless glass panels keep the look minimal and airy. If you prefer a warmer feel, a partial screen can help control splashes without closing off the space.
Accessibility bonus:Â A level-access or low-profile tray creates a seamless transition and makes the room easier to navigate for all ages.
Pro tip:Â Use large-format tiles or wall panels on the floor and walls to create the illusion of a bigger space.
Built-In Shelving & Niches
One of the most underrated design features in a walk-in shower is built-in shelving. A recessed niche keeps bottles and toiletries neat and within easy reach - no more balancing everything on the floor!
Design for symmetry:Â Align the niche with tile joints or central features for a seamless look.
Add lighting:Â A slim LED strip can highlight stone textures and make the niche feel like part of the design rather than an afterthought.
Keep it practical:Â Opt for gently sloped bases for water run-off and easy cleaning.
Pro tip:Â Two smaller niches (one for each side of a dual shower) look balanced and work beautifully in shared spaces.
Seating for Comfort & Style
Adding a bench seat brings an instant sense of spa-style luxury to your shower - and it’s practical too. It’s ideal for shaving legs, storing folded towels, or simply taking a quiet moment under the steam.
Built-in or freestanding:Â A tiled corner bench feels permanent and cohesive, while a movable teak stool gives flexibility.
Design details:Â If tiling the seat, use a slight fall for drainage and ensure the height matches standard seating for comfort.
Accessibility benefit:Â Built-in seating provides extra stability for anyone with reduced mobility, making it both luxurious and inclusive.
Pro tip:Â Combine your seating with under-bench LED lighting for a soft, calming glow.
Light It Like a Spa
Lighting is one of the biggest differences between an everyday shower and a luxury one. Instead of relying on a single overhead light, think in layers.
Ambient lighting:Â LED strips under niches or benches create warmth.
Task lighting:Â Directional downlights ensure good visibility where you need it.
Accent lighting:Â Wall washers or concealed perimeter lights elevate the entire space.
Pro tip:Â Consider dimmable, IP-rated fittings that allow you to switch between bright and relaxed lighting modes.
Smart Features & Easy Maintenance
Modern shower tech has moved far beyond a simple on/off tap. Smart thermostatic mixers, digital touch controls, and preset water temperature functions make everyday use effortless.
Combine these with practical finishes - anti-slip flooring, easy-clean glass, and discreet drainage systems - for a design that’s as functional as it is beautiful.
Conclusion
Walk-in showers aren’t just a trend - they’re a lifestyle upgrade. By combining thoughtful planning with smart features, lighting, and storage, you can create a space that feels indulgent every single day.
If you’re considering removing your bath and replacing it with a walk-in shower, our team can help you design a layout that fits your home, style, and future needs.