Small shower bench ideas
Top 50 Best Shower Bench Ideas
- Next Luxury / Home Design
- by — Brian Cornwell
For the man on the go, a shower is efficient and invigorating. You can save the long soaks for romantic evenings and spa getaways.
However, efficiency needn’t come at the expense of a little luxury. Even the most streamlined, no-frills shower can enjoy a very simple improvement that has come to change the whole shower game.
Shower benches are an ingenious compromise between the briskness of standing and the grandeur of reclining. Whether they are moveable or built directly into the shower wall, shower benches allow you to bask in the bliss of a long and leisurely shower.
They are available in all manner of colors, designs, and materials. You’re not short on choice when it comes to the shower bench. Your shower bench is expertly crafted to blend in seamlessly with your shower scheme, awarding you comfort and class day in and day out.
These shower bench ideas are tangible proof that a little bit of self-indulgence can be instilled into the most basic of everyday rituals. Your moment of reprieve can be all the more enriched by the chance to rest your feet, lean back, and take in a moment of sheer, unencumbered bliss. Let’s check out the best shower bench styles to give you even more inspiration.
1. Wood Shower Bench
Wood may seem like a curious choice of material for a shower or bathtub but it works perfectly. It needs to be treated correctly to prevent any mildew build up but it can form a bath bench or shower bench which is much more comfortable to sit on.
The reason for that is how cold tile and stone surfaces can be when you first touch them. Wood has another advantage over stone too as it has the benefit of drainage holes. Bamboo or teak is the best material for the job as they are extremely durable and give you the perfect shower bench, which will also looks fantastic.
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Many people like the idea of their tile shower bench blending in with the rest of the shower. From a certain angle, you won’t be able to tell where the shelf of the seat begins and the wall ends. Having this blended style is preferable for many people.
Of course, you can choose to go a different way and add a different color of tiling from your seat and your shower walls. Tiles are fairly easy to install and you have a wide variety of patterns and colors to choose from.
3. Marble Shower Bench
A marble shower bench can look spectacular in any shower room. This gives it a beautiful look and you’ll have a bench with immense durability. An alternative to marble is granite and both of them have similar qualities in their style and durability.
Marble benches are also a good idea if you want one that can support more than one person due to their high weight capacity and extra stability.
4. Corner Shower Bench
If your shower was a little smaller then you can choose to have a corner shower bench which isn’t going to take up much space at all. This can be seen as a better alternative to having a freestanding bath stool or shower chair, which can be quite ugly.
Having the shower bench next to the wall not only gets it out of the way but gives you plenty of support. Due to it being a more subtle feature, this shower bench also works well for busy households where not everyone would want a bench.
5. Curved Shower Bench
We love this idea for those that are looking for the ultimate in shower relaxation. You can throw out the conventional ideas of a bath seat or shower chair and go for a curved shower bench which is going to allow you to nearly lie down and let the water flow over you.
You can use its curved shape as a shelf to sit on if you wanted to but these models are perfect for relaxing your whole body.
6. Floating Shower Bench
If you want your shower bench to be a statement piece, then floating benches would be a good call. They are probably the most eye-catching type of bench as the lack of and legs makes it look like a design marvel and you could even place lighting underneath.
It’s a much nicer option than a shower chair and you can choose from a wide range of materials to do this. It’s often seen mostly with stone but you could even have a wooden or metal floating bench. There’s no doubt that they look epic.
7. Wide Shower Bench
If you want to shower with your partner or anyone else, then you may want a wide bench to be able to do it. This gives a much greater level of seating space. This type of shower seat is not just for more than one person either.
A wide shower bench can act as a transfer bench between the shower head and the door.
8. Adjustable Bench
For those looking for a bit more flexibility, an adjustable bench is a great idea. These are commonly associated with stainless steel chairs which have a medical style. A much nicer model is to get an adjustable bench made from wood.
While this can be a great idea, you do need to think about the stability of the bench. It’s a good idea to add some non slip feet to keep it firmly in place.
9. Quartz Shower Bench
If you can’t quite afford a marble or granite bench, then quartz is going to be the ideal alternative. It’s a cheaper material but one that has many of the same qualities such as the level of comfort, style, and durability.
It makes a perfect material for a shower seat and you can get it in a wide range of colors too. Many people don’t know the difference between marble or quartz and that’s another reason it’s incredibly popular.
10. Aluminum Shower Bench
One unusual material to see in a shower is a bench with an aluminum frame but stainless steel can also be used. These have a striking appearance but unless your shower room is kept at a warm temperature, they will be a little cold to sit on. If you’re not worried about having this issue then an aluminum shelf can look brilliant.
FAQs
Is a shower bench worth it?
We think shower benches are a great idea. They provide a greater level of comfort and a shower seat gives you immense support too. For small and more cramped spaces, you may need to settle for a shower stool.
A high-quality transfer bench will also mean you no longer need to get in the bath. For those struggling with mobility, a bathtub can be seen as the only option, as they can lie down. A shower seat makes it much easier to wash yourself without the need for a grab bar.
Why should I put a bench in a shower?
Even for someone who is fit and athletic, some people just like sitting down in the shower.
You won’t need to worry about getting out of the tub, needing a swivel seat, or a cane. Just place your shower bench next to a wall and see how much easier it makes your life. You can wash in a greater level of comfort.
Do teak shower benches get moldy?
When you combine wood and a constantly wet environment, the risk of mold and mildew is greatly increased. A teak shower bench can be a good option due to the characteristics of teak wood. It is incredibly dense and is also packed full of protective natural oils.
It does mean that treated teak benches don’t get mildew easily. While you should inspect them now and again, they are going to last for a very long time.
What is the best material for a shower bench?
We’ve already seen the benefits of a teak shower bench which is a great material for a wooden look. Other materials such as stone, tile, and metal stay quite cool to touch, and therefore you need to be mindful about warming them up before using them.
If you wanted a padded seat you can do with a material such as naugahyde, where you can have a softer shower stool. While that’s an option, it’s high maintenance. The best material for feel is wood but for style and durability, it’s probably best to choose one of the harder materials.
How long does teak wood last in a shower?
Longer than you may think! Teak wood should last for around 15 years which makes it a perfect material for shower benches when you consider its other benefits. Bamboo is another good option for a wooden shower bench as it shares many of the same qualities.
Brian Cornwell founded Next Luxury in 2007 as a magazine for modern gentlemen.
Brian Cornwell founded Next Luxury in 2007 as a magazine for modern gentlemen.
Shower bench ideas: 10 ways to use this nifty design feature
(Image credit: Future)
If you don’t have space for a bath but miss the relaxation element of it when you’re in the shower, then consider a shower bench.
Shower benches aren't just for showering – use yours to sit on while you dry yourself, or use it as an extra storage space for toiletries and towels when the shower isn’t in use. And of the biggest bonuses? They instantly add a luxury spa style to your walk-in shower ideas.
Shower bench ideas
If you're considering a shower, you may be focussing on tiles, screens and hardware. What you may not have considered are shower benches, which will give your bathroom a spa appeal. We’ve sourced 10 shower bench ideas that will transform your shower into a multi-dimensional space – you’ll wonder how you showered without one.
1. Match your shower bench to the basin countertop for a spa-like feel
(Image credit: Lindye Galloway/Chad Mellon)
Whether you're looking for wet room ideas or shower room ideas where the space is shared with a bath or vanity unit, creating a cohesive look is important when space is at a premium, which most of the time it is when it comes to even the most stylish of spa bathroom ideas.
We love how this shower bench matches the chunky countertop of the basin, it really helps to link the two parts of the bathroom together and helps to create a spa-like feel, as Lindye Galloway, founder and chief creative officer at Lindye Galloway Design Studio and Shop mentions:
‘Talk about functionality and comfort – this built in shower bench spans the full length of one wall making room for a bench that can store toiletries and a resting place that gives a spa-like feel.’
2. Create contrast and curves with a shower bench
(Image credit: NOOOR)
The best shower bench ideas might well make for an eye-catching feature in a space that's otherwise necessarily boxy and all about straight lines.
‘We wanted to create a bathroom with an intimate feel, particularly as it has no windows. The idea was to create a radical black and white space, a modernized Art Deco bathroom. We wanted a very masculine, rigorous, and contemporary space, and the aim was to create a graphic effect by enhancing the white veins of the black marble.
‘The shower bench is a small feature that serves practicality as well as design; you can move it around the bathroom, use it in the shower (it is crafted from Corian), sit on it or put towels on it. The rounded shape contrasts with the rest of the bathroom.’
3. For a blended shower bench, use the same tiles as the walls
(Image credit: Studio Gild/Mike Schwartz)
This simple Cali-style shower has a lovely fresh look that's perfect for anyone looking for small bathroom ideas. The white metro tiles give a smart finish and make what could be a dark space feel bright and roomy.
The shower bench is part of the design and is set to the side of the shower heads so you can use it before – and after and the whole scheme blends together visually with the rest of the bathroom.
4. One shower bench not enough? Opt for two
(Image credit: JL Design/Reagan Taylor Photography)
Browsing for luxury bathroom ideas? This generously-sized walk-in shower ensures there’s a enough room for two or more to shower, as Lauren Harmon, interior designer, ASIS Allied at Nashville based JL Design explains:
‘When you are given this much square footage for a shower, you would be remiss not to include a shower bench or two.
5. Bring the Japandi trend to life with your shower bench
(Image credit: Mandarin Stone)
With a nod to Japandi trend, this thin profiled wooden shower bench hits the spot if you love pared-back style.
Its simplicity is beautiful especially when teamed with the gold style shower head and terrazzo wall and floor tiles. The color scheme blends together perfectly and the whole space is calming and zen like.
6. Create a focal point behind your shower bench
(Image credit: Ina Rinderknecht/Patty Neu)
‘With this bathroom we wanted to create a homely ambience. For this we used warm limestone tiles in sand tones, which has an easy and comforting character, with the floor tiles running into the shower,’ says renowned global interior designer Ina Rinderknecht .
‘There we added on the walls a glass mosaic in aqua tones for the freshness and liveliness that is reflecting the daylight.
7. There's room for shower bench ideas in small spaces
(Image credit: Waterworks )
If your shower is small yet you like the idea of a bench then opt for a simple seat style design that can be attached to the wall. Another option is to have it fitted across a corner which would be even more space-saving but still allow you to sit down.
Use fixtures and fittings for your bench that match the shower as shown in this eye-catching design by Waterworks.
8. Create an ‘invisible’ bench with a flowing tile scheme
(Image credit: Stephanie Coutas/Francis Amiand)
You can use bathroom tile ideas to make a shower bench less impactful visually. This all encompassing tile scheme is truly stunning, we love how it flows from the top of the shower to the following wall.
‘We wanted this area, which functions as a shower and a hammam room, to have a very minimalist yet graphic look. We chose to work with a black and white pattern so that the bench would become almost invisible while creating a subtle curve in the space.
'The idea was that the patterned tiles would flow consistently through the bathroom; from the floor leading into the shower and running up the walls. By making the whole space identical, we were able to create a very peaceful atmosphere.’
9. Use a shower bench to add warmth to a monochromatic scheme
(Image credit: Fameed Khalique)
As well as being practical of course, you can use shower bench ideas to add warmth to a scheme. This wooden style design fits this narrow shower perfectly and adds a warming feel by tying in with the soft brass shower head and fittings.
We also like how the wooden element contrasts against the tiles – two very different materials working together harmoniously.
10. Go open-plan and luxurious in marble
(Image credit: Future / Mark Bolton )
When factoring in wet room costs, it's more than worth adding shower bench ideas to your wishlist.
This shower bench is encased in marble to match the walls and sits below an inset shelf that houses toiletries. The shower head is placed nearly above the bench which allows you to sit and shower if you desire. Everything is designed for ease and we love the clear glass door that protects the rest of the bathroom from spray, whilst still allowing all of the light to flow through.
Is a shower bench a good idea?
Yes, a shower bench is a good idea. A shower bench has a few uses – it can aid relaxation if you don’t have a bath, plus it allows you to have somewhere to sit and dry off after the shower. You use it for storage too, keeping folded up towels at one end ready for use.
Shower benches do give a shower room a sleekness too, and can become a design feature that add luxury to a modern scheme.
Where is the best place to put a bench in the shower?
The best place to put a bench in a shower really depends on whether you want to sit on the bench while showering, or put it at the 'dry end' of the showering space. It will also depend on the size of your shower space. If it’s tiny, opt for a corner bench, or, a portable design that can be taken in and out as you need it. You can also use a shower bench to correct the proportions of a shower space: an integrated shower bench can sit along the shortest wall to make the floor space squarer, rather than long and thin.
Sophie has been an interior stylist and journalist for over 20 years and has worked for many of the main interior magazines during that time, both in-house and as a freelancer. On the side, as well as being the News Editor for indie magazine, 91, she trained to be a florist in 2019 and launched The Prettiest Posy where she curates beautiful flowers for modern weddings and events. For H&G, she writes features about interior design – and is known for having an eye for a beautiful room.
17 interiors that the bench transformed into a bathroom
A bathroom bench can completely transform a space. The bathroom is one of the few parts of the house where not much can be done in terms of furniture. Basically, the focus is on storage space. But there is one particular piece of furniture that can drastically change this space: the bathroom bench.
Use a bench to fill an empty space in your bathroom. It can be placed between the bathroom and the sink as a space divider. This is a great idea for large bathrooms. The bench visually divides the space and creates a place to relax.
If you have large windows in your bathroom, you can use this solution too. Place a bench in front of one of the windows. This will create a cozy seating area. Sitting on the bench you can admire the view from the window. Design: gulchdesigngroup.
Another good place for a bench in the bathroom next to the tub. The bench will create a comfortable place to sit down when you get out of the tub.
Here is another example of a bathroom bench next to the tub. In this case, the decor of the bathroom resembles a bedroom. More precisely, the bedroom, which has a bench at the end of the bed. This similarity alone is enough to make the bathroom especially cozy. Design: jonesclayton.
If you want to install a bathroom bench, you can mount it on the wall. This will save space and create a minimalistic decor. Design: cornerstonearchitectsllp.
We also love this bathroom bench next to the shower. This makes room for towels and clothes while you shower. Also, the bench makes the bathroom look like a cozy living room. Now the bathroom is not only a utilitarian space.
If your bathroom has enough space for a bench, it would be a good idea to place it against the wall. So you create a cozy area for relaxation. Add some shelving. Or some drawings on the wall. You will have a comfortable seating area.
Here is another example of a bathroom bench in front of a large window. This time there are cabinets on each side. This creates a nice symmetry in the design. You can use a bench with built-in storage drawers. Design: remickassociates.
Some benches are too stylish to hide in a corner or against a wall. It would be great to move them away from the rest of the bathroom furniture. A stylish bench can become the center of the entire bathroom space. Source: applegatetran.
If you're looking for ways to integrate a bench into your bathroom, check out this design. The elegant bench has a curved shape. This allows it to fit perfectly next to the shower wall.
You can also add a bench in a small bathroom. Of course, it should be a small bench. But in reality, this means that she will look very cute. Place it next to the bath. On the bench you can store towels and other things.
There are many different types of benches to choose from for every type of bathroom.
Of course, you can choose something smaller than a regular bench. It can be an armchair, a stool or a pouffe. In any case, a seating area can be a good addition to the bath. And you can place it near the shower stall.
In the same way, a small side table can transform your entire bathroom. This is a small item, but it has a big impact on the design and atmosphere. The table will help to make the room more cozy and comfortable.
Small stool fits everywhere, even if your bathroom is very small. You can choose a rustic stool or bench. Especially if the rest of the interior is modern. This will add an interesting contrast to the bathroom.
Another idea is to match the bench to the design and decor of the bathroom. Perhaps you can find inspiration in your furniture and interior design. Beams, walls, accent details - everything can be a source of original ideas.
The bench can be used as a console table. Place boxes, decorations, or small storage baskets on it. This will create a kind of zen place in your bathroom. In addition, there will be storage space under the bench. Design: Outmamag.
Categories Bathroom
Shower seat. Types of shower seats and benches
Shower seats are not only the dream of the elderly, shower chairs are enjoyed by bath lovers of all ages and inclinations. If a mother washes a child in the shower, then seating him in a comfortable chair in the rain is a great idea: the seats in the shower, designed for safe washing, do not slide on the floor, and the armrests and backrest will help to “fix” the baby. If an elderly person, a disabled person or a convalescent person takes a shower, then without a doubt it is more comfortable for him to sit under the shower than to stand. Sometimes a bench or a reclining chair in the shower is a must, but sometimes a comfortable seat is just a great addition: to get even more pleasure from the shower.
Folding shower seat mounted on the wall in the form of a console is the most common seat option for a small shower or cubicle. In the closed position, the seat is discreet and takes up no space, and is suitable for cabs of any size. When buying, it is important to consider what body weight the seat is designed for. In any case, both fasteners and the structure must be strong with a margin.
Shower bench
Bench or couch - a seat built into the wall and "merging" with the interior of the shower, you can do it yourself. You will need a frame, a strong mount and additional ceramic tiles, similar to wall cladding or matching the style. Such a couch is not suitable for a small cabin, but if the size of the shower room allows, then the prospects for comfort are excellent: you can sit on a comfortable bench and even lie in the shower, do pedicures, peeling and other procedures necessary for happiness. The bench can be solved both in a volumetric and in a “floating” model, but the second option is technically more difficult and requires strong cantilever supports, while it is irrational to make a wide bench.
A podium bench in a small shower room can be designed as a built-in cabinet if desired, as it is a pity to lose useful space. Inside the seat, you can store a supply of detergents for cleaning the shower.
Tiled bench can be decorated with borders, pebbles, shells and complement the interior of the shower room.
The idea of a shower bench was inspired by the luxurious interiors of an oriental bath - a hammam, but for full implementation, it is necessary to equip the bench heating.
Mosaic tiles, glass or ceramic tiles are especially suitable for finishing – small tiles are easy to tile surfaces with smooth curves.
The bench can be mobile and light; The legs are equipped with special non-slip pads. Models of corner and wall benches provide a choice for a shower room of any configuration. Material - plastic, metal, wood or a combination, for example - a chrome frame and a seat made of natural wood.
Shower stool
Great idea for a mobile stool seat.
Special shower chairs
This is a special purpose range for the sick, convalescent and disabled. The chairs have a very strong construction and increased stability, such a chair cannot be overturned. Be sure to have a back and armrests, the height and position of which in some models can be adjusted; the material of the seat is non-slip, and the legs are equipped with rubber pads. In terms of design, these chairs are similar to hospital ones and the interior of the bathroom is unlikely to be decorated, but when you need to ensure the safety of an elderly person while taking a shower or bath, these models of chairs are indispensable.
