15 impressive walk-in shower ideas for 2024
Blending practicality and elegance, walk-in showers have cemented their place in modern bathroom design. They’re brilliant for opening up your space and creating a spa-like feel – and providing a canvas for personal creativity to take over.
But where do you start if you want to elevate your walk-in shower? Whether you're interested in a minor tweak, a major revamp or some inspiration before installation, we've got you covered with these 15 design ideas.
1. Maximise your space with shelving
One of the biggest challenges in any bathroom, especially smaller ones, is storage – but your shower can be part of the solution.
When designing your walk-in shower, consider integrated shelving or shower racks for all your shower essentials. This will not only maximise your bathroom space, but also keep your walk-in shower enclosure looking sleek and uncluttered.
2. Install hooks to give everything a home
Random shower accessories like exfoliating puffs, loofahs, razors and squeegees are rarely given a permanent home, which only contributes to a messier space.
Instead, consider installing hooks that give a permanent home to your shower essentials – and not the shower floor. Doing this will also give your items space to breathe and properly dry after use, which is great for hygiene reasons alone.
3. Express style with coloured shower heads and valves
There’s a world beyond the standard chrome shower head!
Whether you choose a striking black to match your monochrome bathroom, or a brushed brass valve for a vintage vibe, your choice of shower fixtures can truly make your walk-in shower stand out.
Remember, your shower isn't just about function – it's an opportunity to showcase your interior design flair!
Read our guide to choosing your bathroom colour schemes.
4. Stand out with a smart layout
It’s 2024 and yet it seems that it’s impossible to turn on most showers without getting wet.
Placing the shower valve somewhere you can easily access without getting wet is a small detail that can make all the difference to your daily shower routine – and impress your guests!
5. Coordinate your shower frame with your bathroom
Consistency is vital in a well-designed bathroom – and colour is key.
If you've chosen a black and white colour palette, for instance, extend this to your shower frame. Whichever style you choose, taking a moment to coordinate your shower frame colour with the rest of your bathroom design will be time you’ll never regret spending.
6. Play with tile choice
Tiles are more than just a practical choice for shower walls and floors, they're a fantastic opportunity to express your style.
Whether you prefer a bold pattern or a classic look, your tile choice can transform your walk-in shower from a simple space into a design statement. And there are virtually endless options to choose from, so play around with different styles.
That said, with walk-in showers we’d always recommend considering lighter colours to help the bathroom feel more spacious.
7. Think about where you put your towel rail or hook
No one wants to have to cross their bathroom floor to reach a towel – and definitely not in winter!
A towel within arm's reach as you exit the shower is a small luxury you'll appreciate every day.
Choose from stylish towel rail options that coordinate with the rest of your bathroom for a cohesive look. For smaller bathrooms, a wall-mounted towel hook can be just as effective and save on space.
8. Give your bath mat a designated space
Few things combine luxury and functionality better than the simple bath mat – adding a touch of cosiness and helping to prevent any post-shower slips.
When planning your walk-in shower design, include a space for a bath mat so you’re not left disappointed when you have to squeeze it in at the last minute. A bath mat is also an opportunity to add a pop of colour to your bathroom – one that’s not to be missed!
9. Be considerate in where you place your handheld shower
It’s safe to say that you should consider everyone when planning your walk-in shower. And this is doubly true when it comes to handheld showers.
You should think about placement, specifically where the handheld shower is most useful for those who want to shower their body but not get their hair wet using the overhead shower. And if there’s a big height difference between the tallest and shortest person in your household, you could opt for an adjustable mount that can cater to both adults and children.
A thoughtful touch can enhance the showering experience for all, ensuring your walk-in shower is as functional as possible for your entire household.
10. Future-proof with handrails
While you may not need them now, installing handrails in your walk-in shower can make your bathroom safer and more accessible for everyone.
Consider rails that blend seamlessly with your bathroom design, turning a practical feature into a stylish one. And remember, handrails aren't just for the elderly or those with mobility issues – they're also handy for kids and can provide a little extra security for anyone in the shower.
11. Add comfort with a freestanding or built-in bench
Adding a bench to your walk-in shower can transform it from a purely functional space into a personal spa – and make it even more accessible.
Whether it's a freestanding bench or built-in seating, this addition enhances what showers are great for: relaxation.
12. Step into warmth with underfloor heating
There's nothing quite like the comfort of a warm floor beneath your feet as you step out of the shower.
Underfloor heating can make the colder months a lot more bearable – providing a touch of luxury you’ll never tire of.
13. Design for natural light
Good natural lighting is a true gamechanger: many studies have proven the crucial role it plays in our daily routines and how it supports our mental health.
If your bathroom layout allows it, it’s definitely worth designing your shower so it receives optimal natural light from a window or skylight – making your walk-in shower feel even more open and airy.
14. Set the mood with backlighting
Backlighting is a vital ingredient in a truly luxurious showering experience.
It not only enhances the ambiance of your space but also brings an added dimension to late night and early morning showers.
If you’re going to do it, why not try smart, waterproof LED lights behind a translucent shower wall? This will create a soft, relaxing glow that illuminates your shower space.
15. Elevate your space with glass
Last but not least, consider how a glass wall or panel can elevate your shower space and bathroom.
Clear glass walls can make your bathroom feel more spacious and contemporary, while frosted glass panels add a touch of privacy while still letting light flow freely.
Whichever option you choose, your walk-in shower will become the centrepiece of your bathroom.
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About Kevin Sears
Kevin Sears is a bathroom and interior design blogger here at 34 St John. He creates original content utilising his extensive knowledge of the bathroom industry and latest trends.
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How to Pull Off an Open Plan Bedroom Bathroom Design
Imagine a space where morning light spills across Italian marble floors, sweeping from your silk-draped bed to your freestanding stone bath. An open plan bedroom bathroom revolutionises the way we think about personal space, offering a fresh approach to modern living. This guide will take you through the essential elements of creating a successful open plan design, from practical considerations to luxury finishes. Whether you're renovating or building from scratch, you'll discover how to craft a space that perfectly maintains the privacy and comfort you need. Making Space Work Smarter The secret to an exceptional open plan layout lies in how you'll actually live in it. Map out your morning routine, from the first stretch in bed to your final glance in the mirror. Position your vanity unit where natural light hits your face, not your back. Consider placing your shower or tub where you can glimpse the morning sky. A partial wall at 4-5 feet height can house plumbing while doubling as a backdrop for your bed. https://pin.it/76sQe36Xr Choosing Materials That Last Skip the standard bathroom tiles. Instead, experiment with continuous surfaces that can handle both wet and dry areas. Polished concrete flows beautifully from bedroom to bathroom, developing a rich patina over time. For walls, marine-grade teak brings warmth while withstanding moisture. If marble catches your eye, book-matched slabs create dramatic impact, consider carrying a single piece up the wall and across the floor. Every material you choose will be on constant display, so invest in quality that can handle daily exposure to moisture. https://pin.it/7DVvJ88PH Making Privacy Work Make sure to address the elephant in the room - privacy. Consider installing electrochromic glass panels that switch from clear to opaque. Or take inspiration from Japanese architecture with sliding wooden screens that double as art pieces. Think of privacy elements as art installations that enhance rather than divide your space. https://pin.it/1RI2V8e43 Mastering the Light Your lighting should tell a story throughout the day, starting with discreet LED strips tucked beneath floating vanities and along floor transitions to guide your midnight wanderings with a gentle glow. By your bed, mount reading lights that pivot smoothly to wash your bathroom space in warmth when desired. Let nature play its part by carving out a skylight above your shower, where sunlight paints shifting patterns across marble and glass. https://pin.it/NeM0pHYdf Controlling Climate and Comfort The most important aspect of open plan bathrooms is perfecting the climate control. Install a multi-speed ventilation system with separate fans for shower and toilet areas. Underfloor heating should extend throughout the entire space, with separate zones for wet and dry areas. Position air vents strategically to prevent steam from condensing on your bedroom mirrors and to keep your bedding fresh. Adding a heated towel rack will also help manage moisture while keeping linens fresh and ready for use. https://pin.it/4eqSukEUE Smart Storage Solutions Your space should work like a well-designed yacht where every inch serves a purpose. Create a shower niche visible from your bed with enough depth to showcase art pieces when not storing toiletries. Place a rotating closet system within arm's reach of your shower, ensuring tomorrow's outfit is always perfectly positioned for your morning routine. The artistry lies in concealing these storage solutions so thoroughly that they vanish into your design. Getting the Details Right Success lies in the details that bridge both spaces. Install a surround-sound speaker system with waterproof bathroom speakers that sync perfectly with your bedroom audio, letting your music flow seamlessly as you move between spaces. Select unified fixtures and accessories in brass throughout, from your shower head to your bedside lamps. Try to hide charging stations inside vanity drawers where your devices can power up while staying protected from bathroom steam. Position a beverage station where it's reachable from both your bed and bath, perfect for morning coffee while you run the shower or evening tea as you wind down. These thoughtful connections between bedroom and bathroom spaces transform two rooms into one luxurious retreat where every detail feels considered. https://pin.it/6GEAhra34 -
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How to Create a Boutique Hotel Style Bathroom
That moment when you swing open a hotel bathroom door and your breath catches, it's not just clever marketing at work. Forget the myth that you need massive square footage, what matters most is the strategic choices that transform your daily routine into a retreat experience. Whether you're planning a full renovation or looking to upgrade your existing space, we want to show you how to create a hotel style bathroom that makes you feel like you're on vacation every single day. https://pin.it/4zwJ9TLQP Take Inspiration from Hotel Styles The world's most memorable boutique hotels each tell a unique design story. Consider the minimalist theme of Copenhagen's hotels, where fluted wooden vanities meet curved mirrors and matte black fixtures. Or step into a Parisian bathroom where bold marble contrasts with industrial black metalwork and vintage-inspired lighting. For a more relaxed vibe, look to Australia's coastal hotels, where bleached wood meets textured limestone and oversized windows blur the line between indoors and out. https://pin.it/5naKT5V8x Choose a Relaxing Colour Palette Colour sets the mood for your daily rituals. The most spa-like hotel bathrooms start with a powerful base; think crisp whites with subtle grey veining, creamy stone that catches morning light, or charcoal that grounds the space. Layer in contrast through fixtures and finishes, matte black taps against white tiles create visual anchors, while brushed brass brings warmth to cool greys. The trick lies in restraint, limit yourself to three finishes and let natural materials add subtle variations. https://pin.it/3kboxkJ8l Add Fluted Furniture for Texture Transform flat surfaces into visual stories with fluted details, a design tactic borrowed from the world's leading hotels. A fluted wooden vanity turns a basic storage piece into a sculptural element. Modern boutique hotels often use this architectural detail in unexpected ways, think curved fluted tiles wrapping around a shower enclosure, or a reeded glass partition that separates the vanity from the toilet. https://pin.it/VImnFOOlb Focus on Comfortable Lighting Light makes or breaks a bathroom's atmosphere, it's why hotel bathrooms always seem to make you look better. The secret lies in strategic layering; mount sconces at eye level to eliminate unflattering shadows, install dimmable downlights for tasks, and add a backlit mirror that creates that coveted soft glow around your reflection. Install dimmers on every circuit, including the shower light, and watch your bathroom transform into a personal sanctuary. No single light source should do all the work, it's the interplay between layers that creates that perfect boutique hotel ambiance. https://pin.it/1Qynhg4Zm Choose High-Quality Materials The magic of hotel bathrooms isn't just what you see, it's what you touch. Focus your design plans on the daily contact points, taps that feel perfectly weighted, shower controls that turn with precision, drawers that glide shut silently. Choose large-format porcelain tiles that give you premium looks with practical benefits, better durability, easier cleaning, and none of the maintenance headaches. When it comes to brassware, invest in finishes that get better with age. Quality shows in the details, the smooth edges of a vanity top, the solid feel of a shower screen, the precise alignment of tile work. https://pin.it/1P47NeaDO Include a Freestanding Bath or Walk-In Shower The heart of every standout hotel bathroom is either a statement shower or bath that makes you want to linger. A freestanding tub, thoughtfully positioned to catch natural light, transforms your evenings into a moment of escape. If you have a smaller bathroom, consider a walk-in shower with floor-to-ceiling glass creates that same sense of luxury while making your bathroom feel larger than it is. https://pin.it/HDY4atFVp Layer Soft Textiles Invest in properly weighted towels that get softer with each wash, and buy extras so you can rotate them like hotels do. A deeply cushioned bath mat in pure cotton or bamboo makes that first step out of the shower feel indulgent. Skip the budget bathrobes and find one that's worthy of keeping on display, think waffle-weave cotton or soft linen that looks better and slightly rumpled. Keep your palette tonal with warm whites, soft greys, or deep charcoals to create that considered look. Then master the art of display, roll your hand towels instead of folding them, stack your bath sheets with precision, and keep your robe draped. https://pin.it/4Theqqge8 Keep Storage Simple and Tidy Start with a vanity unit that works hard, think deep drawers with internal organisers, a hidden electrical socket for your toothbrush, and a designated spot for every daily essential. If you're adding open shelving, treat it like a display space rather than storage, a few carefully chosen trinkets in natural materials make more impact than a cluster of products. Incorporate a med-cabinet behind your mirror for those less-than-photogenic necessities, and consider built-in shower niches that keep shampoo bottles off the floor. The goal isn't minimal living, it's smart storage that lets you keep everything you need within reach while maintaining that calm, collected hotel feeling. https://pin.it/5Z0CdyDQk Add a Touch of Greenery Boutique hotels know that greenery connects you to that holiday feeling faster than any design trick. Choose plants that love steamy conditions, a cascading fern creating shadows in your shower alcove, a glossy lily thriving on your vanity, or a statement monstera commanding attention in a corner. Try to think beyond the basic bathroom plant, keep your pots simple in natural materials like terracotta or concrete. And here's the insider tip; one oversized plant makes more impact than several small ones. https://pin.it/1T0gAwx18 Finish with Personal Touches Creating a boutique hotel-inspired bathroom is about focusing on the elements that matter most, whether that's a rainfall shower that drenches away stress or perfectly positioned lights that make every reflection flattering. Keep your palette restrained, your storage smart, and your materials honest. When each element serves both form and function, you'll create a space that feels like your own personal sanctuary, no room service required. For more guidance, you can consult our bathroom design service, where experts are ready to help bring your vision to life.
