Storage is part of the shower layout
Shampoo bottles, soap, razors, and other daily items need a practical home. Waiting until tile work begins to decide on storage can force awkward compromises. Niches, shelves, and ledges should be part of the shower plan from the start.
Placement should follow the user
A niche should be reachable without requiring an uncomfortable stretch or placing items where they interfere with shower controls. During a bathroom remodel, consider who will use the shower and what they routinely store there.
Wall conditions affect what is possible
Stud locations, plumbing, wiring, and the construction of the wall can influence niche size and position. A desired opening on a drawing may need adjustment once the wall conditions are understood.
Waterproofing comes before decoration
A niche interrupts the wall surface and has corners, edges, and a bottom that must be incorporated into the shower’s water-management approach. The finished tile is visible, but the work behind it is what protects the assembly.
Tile layout can make a niche look intentional
Niche edges that align with grout joints or other features can create a cleaner appearance. Tile dimensions should be considered before the opening is finalized so tiny cuts and awkward slivers are reduced where possible.
Bigger is not automatically better
A very large niche may provide storage, but it also takes more wall area and can dominate the shower visually. Multiple users may benefit from separate shelves or a taller niche with divisions instead of one oversized opening.
Think beyond the shower too
Vanity drawers, medicine storage, towels, and cleaning supplies all compete for space in a bathroom. Shower storage should be coordinated with the rest of the room rather than treated as the only storage solution.
Plan before the wall closes
Storage details are easiest to solve before waterproofing and tile installation. Loughman’s project portfolio shows completed bathroom work. For bathroom remodeling in Belleville and the Metro-East, contact Loughman Builders & Remodelers.
