Built in niches and shelving…. I bet you never thought of it! During a bathroom remodel there is a lot going on, and for most people it is very overwhelming; but they want to make sure to do everything right (and for good reason!). So here is a thought, how about add a shampoo niche or some extra shelving? You can never have too much storage!
When I put these blogs together, I want to reiterate that this is by no means meant to be a step by step walk through- it’s more supposed to be a source of information for what can be expected when you go thorough out these life changing processes (okay, maybe not LIFE CHANGING, more disruptive to your household for a couple months.)
Onward to shower niches! First of all, I just want to make sure we’re on the same page. A shower niche is essentially a recessed box in the shower wall for placing your shower items. I mentioned it briefly in my past post “Shower Body Parts” http://wp.me/s2DDdQ-191. The sad (but true) thing about niches is that they tend to look cluttered. Don’t get me wrong, when their first installed with some fancy design their beautiful- but then function plays a role and there are 5 shampoo bottles that don’t match and really don’t look nice. Therefore, my design advice to you is to not place the niche where everyone will see it when they first enter the space. Instead I advise to put it on a side wall so that it does not command attention.
Ah, the pretty niche… well sorta (A)
There are two different ways to add a niche to your shower. First, you can have the installer or contractor build it from scratch. Secondly, you can buy the box and pop it into the wall. I suggest having a conversation with your installer to figure out the best method for you, but in most cases, the per-formed box is easiest.
Now that I have convinced you to add extra shower storage (and really, who couldn’t use more storage?!?) I’ll answer some of your burning questions!
Niche with a little flair! (B)
What are the boxes made of?
They can be made of a variety of products. The important thing to look for is that it is waterproof. It is all important to have a coating on the interior of the box that makes it easy for the installer to cover with tiles.
What sizes can I get?
The shower niches usually come in a variety of sizes. Usually, the niche is about 3″ deep. The dimensions of the insert are not endless, since it needs to be able to fit in between the studs (which are 16″ apart from each other- or at least they should be!) There are many different shapes that can be selected, and lengths. Do you want four shelves in your shower? No problem!
Are they easy to install?
It depends on whether your shower in a new construction or a remodel. I found tutorials for both online, and they seem easy enough to follow. The tricky part is if you’re cutting into the wall and there are compilations with the substrate. I would (again) suggest talking with a contractor about this endeavor.
Are the niches expensive?
For the actual box I would say somewhere around $50 is reasonable (from what I’ve seen). Installation will certainly be an added cost, so keep that in mind!
Niches are a very lovely addition to the shower, but some people opt for adding in external shelving, which is perfectly ok, and can dual function as a small seat as well! The seat can either be “free floating” or it can have a tiled front. The choice is yours!
Shelf/ Bench (C)
What are the shelves made of?
Again, make sure their water proofed. Usually this product is installed and set with tile in the same day!
What sizes can I get?
The shower niches usually come in a variety of sizes. For an approximate average I’ve seen around 8″ in both directions, but there are many sizes available!
Are they easy to install?
Very. It is screwed into the studs so it is incredibly sturdy as well! The product is light weight, and does not require framing.
A shelf perhaps? (D)
Are the shelves expensive?
Not at all! Through my research, I have found that a reasonable asking price for this product is around $30
Adding shelving to a shower is a great idea (and in most cases necessary). The shelving can be something fun, design wise, so be sure to think it though a bit- and have fun!
Cheers!