Plumbtile's Blog

3 Elements You Need to Create a Spectacular Walk-in Shower

May 31, 2011 at 1:57 pm plumbtile Leave a comment

When we see those large, walk in showers, many of us can immediately imagine the instant relaxation we’d feel from stepping into one – before even turning on the water! When broken down, however, these showers are actually made of very simple elements. There is no reason that more of us can’t have walk in showers to enjoy! Here are the three essential pieces you need to create that luxurious spa experience in-home.

The Right Tile
Tumbled stone tile flooring is a very popular choice for walk-in showers. Just as with any other tile project, you need to be sure that the tile is made of the correct materials for the job – porcelain and ceramic might be disastrous on the floor of a shower! Tumbled stone. mosaic, or pebble style tiling will give the shower a natural feel and won’t be slippery when wet!

Tiles along the shower walls can be (and usually are) larger body tiles than those of the floor. If you’d really like to increase the “open” feeling of a walk-in shower, try laying these tiles diagonally. The colors and patterns you choose are up to you, but to maintain that comforting spa feel, try to stay with cool and relaxing colors.

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The Right Shower Head
Ideally, you may want to have two shower heads in a walk-in shower. It is a common misconception that a larger shower needs several shower heads and therefore to waste much more water than others. Instead, go for a larger rain dome style shower head. This will provide plenty of water for you, while actually using less of it than traditional shower heads. Also, a hand-held shower head can be included as a option for directed water pressure. This way the shower will never feel “lacking.”

The right Lighting
Finally, a larger walk-in shower will need the right kind of lighting to complete the relaxing atmosphere. The first step is to add a window close to the ceiling which will allow natural light to flow in whenever possible. For showering at night or on cloudy days, include a few recessed lights in the ceiling of the shower – as opposed to the main bathroom lights which are outside.  This creates that feeling of a personal retreat. Go for lights that simulate sunlight, and be sure the fixtures are graded for use in damp areas.

Of course, the best ways to create the perfect relaxing walk-in shower is to add your own touches. Glass doors and walls are very common, and fixtures along the wall for soaps, shampoos and other shower necessities will also add to the look and feel. These basic tips will start that walk-in shower for you, but your own personal style will make it perfect!

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