When it comes to designing your bathroom, choosing the right shower enclosure can make a huge difference in both functionality and style. From compact corners to luxurious walk-ins, there’s a shower enclosure to fit every bathroom size and aesthetic. Whether you’re updating your existing bathroom or planning a new installation, understanding the various types of shower enclosures can help you make the best decision. Let’s take a look at five popular types and how to choose the one that’s right for your space.
1. Corner Shower Enclosures
A corner shower enclosure is one of the most common options for smaller bathrooms. As the name suggests, it fits neatly into the corner of your bathroom, often creating a perfect balance between space efficiency and comfort. These enclosures come in a variety of door styles, including sliding, hinged, and bi-fold doors, giving you flexibility in how much space is needed for the door to open.
Best For: Small to medium-sized bathrooms, or any space where you want to maximise the room available for other fixtures.
Benefits: Corner showers are incredibly versatile. Not only do they make the most of tight spaces, but they can also enhance the overall flow of the room. The variety of designs available means you can find an option that matches your bathroom style, whether it’s a sleek modern design or a more traditional look.
Considerations: While corner showers are great for smaller spaces, they may not provide the same expansive showering experience as larger enclosures. If you have a larger bathroom and prefer a more open feel, a corner shower may not be the best fit. You can find the perfect shower enclosure from Plumbworld.
2. Quadrant Shower Enclosures
If you’re looking for something with a bit more curvature, quadrant shower enclosures could be the perfect choice. These enclosures are designed to fit into a corner but have a curved front, making them ideal for small bathrooms where you want to maximise the space available.
Best For: Small bathrooms or awkward layouts where a straight-edged shower may feel too cramped.
Benefits: The soft, curved design of quadrant showers creates a sense of openness, allowing for better flow within the bathroom. Their space-saving qualities make them perfect for smaller or narrower spaces, while still providing a generous showering area. Plus, their modern aesthetic can give your bathroom a sophisticated, elegant look.
Considerations: For larger bathrooms, quadrant enclosures might feel a bit restrictive. If you have a more spacious bathroom and want something that makes a bigger statement, you might want to opt for a different style.
3. Bi-Fold Shower Enclosures
Bi-fold shower enclosures are another great option for bathrooms with limited space. These enclosures feature a door that folds back on itself, allowing you to save space that would otherwise be taken up by a traditional hinged door.
Best For: Small bathrooms or tight spaces where every inch counts, but you still want a full-sized shower.
Benefits: Bi-fold enclosures are an excellent choice for anyone looking to maximise their bathroom space without sacrificing the showering experience. The folding doors make them especially useful in narrow bathrooms where a swinging door could be an issue. Plus, the sleek design adds a touch of modernity.
Considerations: While bi-fold doors are great for smaller bathrooms, they might not offer the same luxurious feel as larger, frameless enclosures. If you’re after a more opulent design, you may want to look into other options.
4. Walk-In Shower Enclosures
For a truly modern, luxurious shower experience, walk-in enclosures are hard to beat. These sleek, open designs allow for easy access without the need for doors or heavy panels. They create a sense of space and airiness, which can make your bathroom feel much larger than it actually is.
Best For: Spacious bathrooms with a contemporary aesthetic.
Benefits: Walk-in showers are not only stylish but also incredibly functional. Without doors or frames, they’re easier to clean and maintain. Plus, they offer a more open and accessible feel, which is perfect for those who love a minimalist, spa-like atmosphere. You can even add features like rain shower heads, built-in seating, or even mood lighting for a truly indulgent experience.
Considerations: Walk-in showers require more space, so they might not be suitable for smaller bathrooms. They also offer less privacy, as there’s no door to close off the space, which could be a dealbreaker for some.
5. Steam Shower Enclosures
If you’re all about relaxation and wellness, a steam shower enclosure could be just what you need. These enclosures are specifically designed to retain steam, offering a spa-like experience right in your own bathroom. They often come with additional features like built-in seating, mood lighting, and even aromatherapy options.
Best For: Those who want a high-end shower experience with relaxation benefits.
Benefits: Steam showers are fantastic for improving circulation, reducing stress, and promoting overall wellness. The enclosed environment helps to retain heat and moisture, turning your shower into a mini steam room. Plus, many steam shower models come with added features like advanced showerheads, Bluetooth speakers, and lighting options to make your showering experience more enjoyable.
Considerations: Steam showers can be expensive to install and may require specialised plumbing and ventilation. They also take up more space than other options, so they’re not ideal for smaller bathrooms.
Framed vs Frameless Walk-In Shower
Framed Design
You’ll find that framed designs are much more common when it comes to walk-in showers. Having this metal frame around the glass panels and door means that you benefit from having a durable shower. Indeed, this frame is all about support and there’s evidence to suggest it could help to reduce the risk of glass breaking. As a design, it’s also more affordable and easier to install.
However, some people don’t like a framed design because they believe it looks bulky. If you’re looking to create a spacious and open showering area, this might be something you want to consider. When it comes to cleaning, there can be more crevices for mould and mildew to growth, which means you need to do more scrubbing.
Frameless Design
If you’re looking for a really stylish walk-in shower and wish to make the bathroom look more spacious, consider a frameless design. Since it’s mostly made from glass, this can allow an open and airy feel, which is more modern. Indeed, your bathroom will look bigger, which can be a good idea for smaller spaces. Something else that homeowners like about a frameless design is that it’s easier to clean. There are no frames that can gather soap scum or grime.
Some of the downsides are important to consider before getting a frameless walk-in shower. Namely, this is a more expensive design, which you need to be prepared for. It can also take longer to install, which can mean more money. It’s crucial to get experts to install this style of enclosure, as you need it to be sturdy and secure.
Conclusion
Choosing the right shower enclosure is all about finding the balance between your bathroom size, style preferences, and practical needs. From space-saving corner enclosures to luxurious walk-in designs, there’s an option for every bathroom. Whether you’re working with a small space or a spacious, modern bathroom, selecting the right shower enclosure can enhance your bathroom’s overall look and feel, while improving its functionality.
Take some time to assess your bathroom’s size and layout, and think about how you want your shower to function—whether it’s for quick daily use or a relaxing spa-like experience. Whichever type you choose, you’re sure to find an enclosure that suits your needs perfectly
