10 Small Bathroom Shower Remodel Ideas: Creative, space-saving ways to redesign your bathroom shower with style and functionMarianne LoftJan 20, 2026Table of Contents1. Go Frameless Glass2. Switch to a Corner Entry3. Add a Built-In Niche4. Try a Textured Tile Floor5. Install a Sliding Barn-Style Shower Door6. Statement Wall with Pattern Tile7. Convert Tub to Walk-In Shower8. Play with Lighting9. Rainfall Shower Head Upgrade10. Combine Glass with Partial WallFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOnce, I had a client who insisted on installing a clawfoot tub in a 3-square-meter bathroom. I tried to explain it would feel like bathing in a closet, but they were determined. The project taught me two things: first, measure twice before falling in love with an idea; second, small spaces force us to think big in creativity. So today, I’m sharing 10 shower remodel ideas I’ve used for clients and my own home, each balancing beauty and practicality.1. Go Frameless GlassA frameless glass shower instantly opens up your bathroom visually. It’s sleek, easy to wipe, and lets the tile work shine. The only downside? It can show water spots, so keep a squeegee handy right after use. I once used this in a tiny apartment remodel with a custom shower footprint and it transformed the whole space.save pin2. Switch to a Corner EntryCorner showers with sliding or pivot doors can free up precious walking space. They’re perfect for awkward layouts, though you’ll need precise measurements to avoid leaks or door jams.save pin3. Add a Built-In NicheRecessed wall niches keep shampoo bottles off the floor, and you avoid clutter that makes a small shower feel even smaller. Just make sure it’s waterproofed properly to prevent mold.save pin4. Try a Textured Tile FloorIt’s gorgeous and slip-resistant—a double win. Natural stone pebble tile underfoot feels like a spa but does require more grout upkeep than smooth tiles.save pin5. Install a Sliding Barn-Style Shower DoorInstead of a door that swings open, a sliding barn-style glass door saves space and adds modern flair. I’ve paired this with matte black hardware for a classy, low-maintenance look.save pin6. Statement Wall with Pattern TileOne dramatic wall inside your shower can make a big impact. A Moroccan-inspired tile or bold color draws the eye and makes the shower a design feature instead of just a functional corner. I once used this trick while planning a bath remodeling layout and the client loved it.save pin7. Convert Tub to Walk-In ShowerIf you never use your tub, replace it with a walk-in shower. It makes cleaning easier, and you can fit a bench or double shower heads. Do check local real estate trends though—some buyers prefer to keep at least one tub in the home.save pin8. Play with LightingLED strip lighting behind niches or a waterproof recessed spotlight can make the shower feel larger and more inviting. Lighting needs to be IP-rated for wet zones, so don’t DIY unless you’re confident.save pin9. Rainfall Shower Head UpgradeSwapping a basic head for a rainfall style changes your daily shower into a spa ritual. It’s an easy update, though water pressure may feel gentler. In one recent project, I used this along with a 3D bathroom mockup to fine-tune placement before installation.save pin10. Combine Glass with Partial WallIf you want privacy without sacrificing light, build a half wall topped with glass. It balances openness with discretion and works well in shared bathrooms.save pinFAQQ: How much should I budget for a small shower remodel?A: Depending on materials and plumbing needs, you might spend $2,500–$8,000. Labor costs can be 40–60% of that.Q: Do I need a permit?A: In most areas, yes—especially if relocating plumbing or touching structural elements. Always check local building codes first.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE