5 Bathroom Designs with Shower and Tub: Space-smart, stylish ways I use to fit both a shower and a tub—even in small bathrooms.

A client once begged me to fit a clawfoot tub and a rain shower into a 5'×8' bath. I almost said yes before realizing the door would slam right into the tub filler—rookie oversight back in year two of my career. Since then, I start every remodel by mapping the shower-to-tub clearance, and that habit has saved me from a lot of soggy regrets. Small spaces spark big creativity, so today I’m sharing five bathroom designs with shower and tub that actually work in real homes.

Idea 1: The glass-panel tub–shower combo

When space is tight, a fixed glass panel over a standard alcove tub keeps things airy while controlling splash. I like a 30–36 inch clear opening with a slight floor slope toward the drain; it feels open but still practical.

The win is visual calm—no heavy curtains—and easy cleanup. The trade-off is drafting the glass correctly so the vanity doesn’t get misted; hinges, panel width, and the showerhead angle matter more than most people think.

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Idea 2: The wet room with a freestanding tub

If you love long soaks and steamy showers, put both in one waterproofed zone. I run a linear drain along the back wall, slope the floor 1/4 inch per foot, and wrap walls with a proper membrane so the whole area is splash-safe.

It’s spa-like and brilliant for narrow rooms because you eliminate extra lines and lips. The challenge is budget—waterproofing and careful tiling aren’t cheap—but you’ll gain a seamless look and easier cleaning (no curtain hem to mildew).

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Idea 3: The storage-savvy pony wall divider

A 42-inch pony wall between the shower and tub gives you privacy, a ledge for shampoos, and a place to hide plumbing. I often top it with glass to keep light bouncing around and tuck niches on the shower side for bottles and on the tub side for a candle and a book.

It’s the best of both worlds: defined zones without feeling boxed in. Before you build, mock up your clearances and simulate the traffic flow so the pony wall doesn’t crowd the vanity or towel reach.

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Idea 4: Family-friendly, future-proof layout

For kids and guests, pair a curbless shower next to a soaking tub, with a single shared valve wall to save on plumbing. I keep a 36-inch walkway where possible and add blocking in the walls for future grab bars—you may not need them now, but your future knees will thank you.

This layout feels generous even in a modest footprint. The only catch is precise floor pitch and drain placement, so towels don’t end up as dams—your contractor’s waterproofing skills are everything here.

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Idea 5: Materials and lighting that do the work

Bigger tiles (24×24 or 12×24) mean fewer grout lines around the tub and shower, and a matte porcelain with a wet DCOF of ≥0.42 keeps footing safer. I love a dimmable sconce by the tub, a damp-rated recessed over the shower, and a warm LED strip in the niche for spa vibes without glare—then I’ll test sightlines in 3D to catch any shadows on mirrors.

Go for a single slab tub deck if you have room; it doubles as a seat for rinsing kids or shaving legs. Keep maintenance in mind—frameless glass looks luxe but needs a quick daily squeegee habit to stay crystal clear.

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FAQ

What’s the minimum size for bathroom designs with shower and tub?

For comfort, I aim for at least 5'×8' for a tub-shower combo, or 6'×8' if you want separate zones. Tight spaces can still work, but you’ll trade storage and elbow room.

Is a wet room with both shower and tub a good idea?

Absolutely—one waterproofed area simplifies cleaning and feels luxurious. Just budget for proper membranes, sloped floors, and a quality linear drain so water goes where it should.

Glass panel or shower curtain over the tub?

Glass looks cleaner and keeps light flowing, great for resale and small baths. Curtains are cheaper and flexible but can feel busy; choose a light, washable fabric if you go that route.

How do I prevent water splashing between the shower and tub areas?

Use a fixed panel or well-placed screen, aim the showerhead toward tile, and slope the floor toward the drain. In wet rooms, extend the membrane higher and add a secondary drain if the layout allows.

What clearances should I plan for between fixtures?

I like at least 30 inches clear in front of the tub and 36 inches for a comfortable shower zone. NKBA recommends a minimum 30×30 shower (36×36 preferred) and 30 inches of clear space in front of fixtures; see NKBA Bathroom Planning Guidelines with Access Standards for specifics: https://nkba.org/guidelines/bathroom/

What materials are best for a shower-and-tub combo?

Matte porcelain or ceramic tile with a wet DCOF ≥0.42 is durable and safer underfoot. Pair with epoxy grout and a quality silicone sealant for longer-lasting joints.

Can I do a curbless shower next to a tub in a small bathroom?

Yes, if you recess or build up the floor to create the slope and manage elevations at the doorway. A linear drain at the far wall helps you keep a gentle, consistent pitch.

How much does combining a shower and tub cost?

For a straightforward alcove tub-shower, I see $7k–$15k in many markets. A wet room with more waterproofing and custom glass can land in the $15k–$30k range, depending on finishes and labor.

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