Make the most of a shower in a small bathroom with these space-saving strategies and inspirational design ideas.

In general, a shower should measure at least 36" x 36".

Will your elbows knock shower walls?

spacious walk-in shower with marble walls and warm tones

Credit: Michael Partenio

Can you bend over without crashing into the shower door?

Consider these small shower ideas to help you fit a functional and attractive shower unit into a tight space.

Small-Bathroom Shower Design

A small shower is an excellent opportunity to make a statement.

Bathroom with green subway tile

Credit: David Tsay

Cover the shower withtile in a bold coloror unique configuration for a striking focal point.

The limited surface area allows for a small splurge that won’t go over budget.

Install an overhead fixture inside the shower to brighten the space when in use.

bathroom corner shower subway tile

Credit: James R Salomon

Minimum design standards suggest at least two feet of clearance space in front of any shower door.

Position the showerhead at the highest point inside the shower.

Stacey Brandford; Interior Design: Haneen Matt

9.

teal tiled small corner shower

Credit: Gordon Beall

Here, a detailedtoile mural tilein the niches creates a dreamy scene and acts like artwork in the shower.

Frequently Asked Questions

A shower should be 36 inches square (36 inches x 36 inches).

There are options for adding shelves to an existing shower.

angled glass shower in small bath with blue striped tile

Credit: Michael Partenio

Installing a recessed unit is possible, but that usually involves removing tile and can be complicated.

The average cost of a shower installation is $6,800.

gray shower with bench and niche

Credit: Beth Singer

shower and tub with glass doors

Credit: Susan Gilmore

teal bathroom with white tile shower

Credit: Anthony Masterson

Bathroom tile mural

Credit:Stacey Brandford; Interior Design: Haneen Matt