
A walk-in shower with a bench is a game-changer for bathroom functionality and comfort.
You can choose from a variety of bench styles, including wall-mounted, freestanding, and built-in options.
A wall-mounted bench is a great space-saver and can be installed at a comfortable height for easy entry and exit.
Incorporating a bench into your walk-in shower can also add a decorative element, such as a stylish tile surround or a luxurious glass enclosure.
By selecting a bench that complements your shower's style and materials, you can create a cohesive and inviting bathroom space.
Design Ideas
Covering your walk-in shower bench in the same material as the rest of the shower can create a seamless and luxurious look. This design approach can be seen in modern shower seat designs that feature stone or other materials that match the surrounding shower area.
A shower niche that mirrors the bench in length, height, and depth can add to the dramatic effect of the design. This thoughtful design choice creates a sense of continuity and visual balance in the shower space.
Modern Design
Modern design in showers is all about creating a sleek and luxurious look. Covering a shower bench in the same stone as the rest of the shower can lend a minimalistic yet luxurious aesthetic.
A shower niche that mirrors the bench in length, height, and depth can add to this dramatic effect. Strategically positioned tiles can also create an eye-catching walk-in shower seat.
Shaped like an ottoman, this bench has slanted sides emphasized with wide vertical tiles and a band of narrower horizontal tiles. A solid slab of stone creates a seamless top.
Using the same stone for the bench and the rest of the shower creates a cohesive look. This design choice can make a small shower feel more spacious.
Simple Design
A simple design can be just as effective as a more elaborate one. Incorporating a built-in shower seat can be a great way to add functionality to your shower space.
The seat can be a box protected in a waterproof membrane, backer board, and a decorative surface, such as tile. This design can be particularly useful when the seat occupies the back wall, allowing for showerheads to be mounted at either end.
Extra-long subway tiles can be used to clad the face of the bench, highlighting the seat and complementing patterned floor tiles.
Consider reading: Walk in Shower with Seat
Should You Include It?
Including a bold color scheme in your design is a great way to make a statement, but it's not always the best choice for a professional setting.
A study found that 70% of people associate bright colors with fun and creativity, but only 20% associate them with professionalism.
Using a bold color scheme can be a good choice for a children's app or a social media platform, but it may not be suitable for a financial services company or a law firm.
In fact, a survey found that 80% of adults prefer a more muted color palette for business-related documents.
A well-designed color scheme can make a big difference in how your design is perceived, and it's worth taking the time to choose the right colors for your audience.
Make It Spa
Creating a spa-like atmosphere in your walk-in shower is easier than you think. A classic color scheme can make a huge difference, and in this example, a soothing combination of marble tile walls and navy penny round accent tile was used.
Marble tile walls can add a touch of luxury to your shower, as seen in the example where it was paired with navy penny round accent tile. This classic combination creates a spa-like ambiance that's perfect for relaxation.
A stunning glass-topped knee wall can provide space for a wide bench, as shown in the walk-in shower design. This feature not only adds functionality but also creates a sense of openness and visual interest.
Expanding the shower opening with shower glass can connect the shower to the rest of the primary bath, allowing natural light to flood in. This design element can make a dated shower feel more spacious and airy.
A unique perspective: Tile Fireplaces Design Ideas
Accessible
Adding an accessible walk-in shower seat can be a game-changer for safety and comfort. Choose an ADA-compliant design for a guarantee of safety and secure installation.
For a custom design, consider the space you're working with and your individual needs. You can opt for a shower seat with a base, a free-floating seat, or a corner seat, each with its pros and cons.
A natural stone like Meteor Shower Satin can make a bold statement in your walk-in shower. This granite has a three-dimensional appearance and variation of color, perfect for pairing with softer wall tiles like Calacatta Gris for a peaceful atmosphere.
For another approach, see: One Piece Shower Stall with Seat
Shower Bench Types
There are several types of shower benches to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. The most popular types include wall-mounted, recessed, and freestanding benches.
Wall-mounted benches are a great option for small bathrooms, as they don't take up much space and can be installed directly into the wall. They're also easy to clean and maintain.
Recessed benches, on the other hand, are built into the shower floor and provide a more seamless look. They're perfect for creating a spa-like experience in your own home.
Freestanding benches offer a more traditional look and can be placed anywhere in the shower. They're also a good option for those who want to add some extra storage to their shower area.
Portable Stools
Portable stools are a great option for shower seating. They can be easily moved in and out of the shower as needed.
You can use sturdy stools or benches to serve as convenient catchalls for necessities. They can also provide seating in the shower.
Moisture-resistant materials like teak, bamboo, plastic, and resin are perfect for withstanding years of showers. They'll endure the test of time and keep your shower area looking great.
Ceramic garden stools can be repurposed as freestanding shower seats in a pinch. They're made of durable, water-safe material and can be a great space-saving solution.
Portable stools are a great way to add a seating option to your shower without committing to a permanent seat.
If this caught your attention, see: Shower Portable Caddy
L-Shaped
L-Shaped shower benches are a great option for walk-in showers. They feature an upside-down L-shaped seat that provides ample space for sitting.
Typically, L-Shaped shower benches have supports built off the wall, which gives them a more bench-like appearance. These supports are often a wooden case around steel brackets.
An L-Shaped shower bench can be a fantastic addition to a walk-in shower, offering a comfortable and convenient place to rest.
Should Showers Have Benches?
A shower bench can be a game-changer for bathroom safety and comfort.
Having a stable place to sit in the shower is especially important for people with mobility issues, as it can help prevent slips and falls.
Consider adding a bench to your bathroom during renovation, as it will become more practical as you age.
A stand-alone teak bench can be a great alternative to a built-in bench, and it can be repositioned as needed.
Materials and Finishes
A walk-in shower with a bench is a great opportunity to get creative with tile materials. Repeat the material elsewhere in the bathroom for a cohesive look.
The same material used on a shower bench can be used to frame a window or shower niche, creating a more intentional design. This is especially effective when using a concrete finish, as seen in some designs.
Using the same material throughout the bathroom creates a sense of continuity and makes the space feel larger. It's a simple yet effective way to tie everything together.
Unique Materials

Using a unique material for your walk-in shower seat can add an interesting texture and distinguish it from the rest of the shower. This can be achieved by incorporating a material that contrasts with the surrounding elements, such as the brown floor and cream-color wall tile.
A custom walk-in shower seat is an opportunity to incorporate your favorite color or material. For example, wood-look tiles can add a warm and natural feel to the space.
Incorporating a different material for your walk-in shower seat can also create a sense of visual interest. The colors and textures of the surrounding elements can be harmonized with the chosen material to create a cohesive look.
Curious to learn more? Check out: How to Add a Handheld Shower Head to a Shower
Marble
Marble is a versatile material that can add a touch of elegance to any bathroom. A walk-in shower seat made of marble tile, like the one built-in beneath a pair of toiletry niches, can create a beautiful focal point.
Marble's distinctive appearance can be enhanced by pairing it with other materials, such as the vivid blue tiles inset in the adjacent wall.
Wood
Wood is a versatile material that can add warmth and texture to your bathroom.
Repeating materials in your shower seating can tie the bathroom together, as seen with the wood stool that echoes the finish on the wood-paneled ceiling and vanity shelf.
Using wood in your bathroom can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, especially when paired with subway-tiled walls and slate floors.
The wood's texture and warmth stand out against these types of surfaces, making it a great choice for bathroom design.
Wooden accents can also help to create a sense of continuity in the bathroom, tying together different design elements and creating a cohesive look.
Tiled
Tiled walk-in shower benches can be a great way to add visual interest to your bathroom. A striking mix of square and mosaic tiles can be used to create a fashionable seat that draws the eye into your walk-in shower.
You can repeat the material used on the bench elsewhere in the bathroom for a cohesive look. The same concrete finish used on a corner shower bench can frame a window and shower niche, making it look more intentional.
A solid slab of marble can be used to create a walk-in shower bench that takes a back seat to other design elements. This can be especially effective when paired with vivid blue tiles inset in the adjacent wall.
Repeating tile materials can create a sense of continuity in your bathroom design. This can be achieved by using the same tile material on the bench as on other areas of the bathroom, such as the floor or shower walls.
A walk-in shower bench with a built-in design can be a convenient and stylish addition to your bathroom. This can be especially effective when situated below a pair of toiletry niches, as seen in some designs.
Additional reading: Small Walk in Shower Tile Ideas
Installation and Placement
To install a walk-in shower with a bench, consider the floor's slope and drainage. A gentle slope of 1/4 inch per foot is ideal to ensure water flows towards the drain.
The bench's placement is crucial; it should be positioned in a way that allows for easy entry and exit from the shower. Typically, it's best to place the bench on the opposite side of the shower from the showerhead.
A built-in bench can be a great space-saving option, but it requires careful planning to ensure it doesn't obstruct the shower's water flow.
Here's an interesting read: Walk in Shower Floor Slope
Corner

A corner bench can be a great addition to a walk-in shower, providing plenty of utility in a midsize shower. It's a tiny form with a big impact.
Choose a corner for your walk-in shower seat, as it can help tie the bench to other design elements in the bathroom. This can be especially effective when the bench is a contrasting color to the surrounding tile.
A white seat against a gray-tiled base can make the bench stand out, and tie it to other design elements like mosaic-tile niches and a river-rock floor.
For more insights, see: Bath Shower with Seat
Inside, Outside
When recessing the glass shower wall, a couple of inches in from the edge of the tiled wall and bench creates a streamlined look.
This design choice also provides a generous ledge for storing shower supplies, keeping them within easy reach.
Recessing the glass wall in can make a small shower feel larger, making it feel more spacious and airy.
By combining white subway tile with white grout and white marble, you can achieve a classic and timeless look that's both elegant and sophisticated.
Related reading: Shower Insert with Glass Door
Frequently Asked Questions
How much on average is it to put in a walk-in shower?
The average cost to install a walk-in shower is around $9,000, with prices ranging from $6,000 to $12,000. Learn more about the factors that affect walk-in shower installation costs.
What is the cheapest way to build a walk-in shower?
Prefab walk-in showers are a budget-friendly option, made from durable materials like acrylic or fiberglass and can be installed quickly to reduce labor costs
What is a good size for a walk-in shower with a bench?
A good size for a walk-in shower with a bench is at least 4 feet wide and 6 feet long, allowing for a comfortable space for two people and a shower chair or spa bench. A wider and longer space is even better for added convenience and safety.
Should I put a bench in my walk-in shower?
Consider installing a built-in shower bench for added convenience and accessibility, especially if you have mobility issues or need extra space for personal care. A shower bench can be a lifesaver for everyday tasks and provide a safe seating option.
Can you use tile on a shower bench?
Yes, you can use tile on a shower bench, and it's often a cost-effective option when paired with your main shower tile. Using the same tile can create a seamless look and enhance the overall design of your shower space.
Featured Images: pexels.com


