types of shower designs pictures

Types of Shower Designs: A Visual Guide

By Hannah MartinezApril 11, 2026

When it comes to designing your dream bathroom, the shower is often the focal point. With a myriad of styles and designs available, choosing the perfect shower can be an exciting yet daunting task. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a comprehensive guide on the types of shower designs, complete with pictures to inspire your selection.

Before we dive into the various shower designs, let's briefly discuss some factors to consider when choosing a shower. These include your personal preferences, the size and layout of your bathroom, and any specific needs or accessibility requirements. With these factors in mind, you're ready to explore the diverse world of shower designs.

Traditional Shower Designs

Traditional shower designs are classic and timeless, offering a sense of familiarity and comfort. These showers often feature simple, clean lines and are available in a range of materials, from ceramic tile to natural stone.

a walk in shower sitting inside of a bathroom

a walk in shower sitting next to a wooden bench under a light fixture on the wall

Traditional showers can be further categorized into two main types: alcove and corner showers.

Alcove Showers

Alcove showers are the most common type of shower, featuring three walls and an open front. They are easy to install and maintain, making them an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a straightforward, classic design.

a bathroom with a walk in shower next to a toilet

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Alcove showers can be customized with various showerhead options, such as rainfall, handheld, or dual-function showerheads. Additionally, you can incorporate built-in seats or niches for added functionality and convenience.

Corner Showers

Corner showers are designed to fit snugly into the corner of your bathroom, making them an ideal choice for smaller spaces. They typically have two walls and an open front, offering a more streamlined appearance than alcove showers.

Corner showers can be customized with various showerhead options and can also include built-in seats or niches. Some corner showers feature a neo-angle design, which allows for a larger showering area despite the compact footprint.

a shower head in the middle of a black tiled bathroom with wooden bench and mirror

a shower head in the corner of a room with stone walls and wood flooring

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Modern and Contemporary Shower Designs

Modern and contemporary shower designs embrace clean lines, minimalist aesthetics, and innovative materials. These showers often feature large, open spaces and are designed to create a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom.

One of the standout features of modern and contemporary showers is the use of large format tiles or slab materials, which can create a seamless, luxurious look.

Walk-in Showers

Walk-in showers are a popular choice for modern and contemporary bathrooms, offering a spacious, open feel. They typically feature a low threshold or no threshold at all, allowing for easy access and a seamless transition between the shower and the rest of the bathroom.

a bathroom with stone walls and flooring in the shower area, along with a wooden bench

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a bathroom with a shower head and plants in it

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Walk-in showers can be customized with various showerhead options, built-in seats, and even steam shower systems. To ensure safety and accessibility, consider incorporating grab bars or non-slip surfaces.

Curbless Showers

Curbless showers are a variation of walk-in showers, featuring a completely seamless, barrier-free design. They are an excellent choice for homeowners with mobility issues or those seeking a sleek, modern look.

Curbless showers typically require a slightly sloped floor to ensure proper drainage. They can be customized with various showerhead options and built-in seating, creating a luxurious, spa-like experience.

When selecting a shower design, consider your personal preferences, the size and layout of your bathroom, and any specific needs or accessibility requirements. By taking the time to explore the various shower designs and customization options available, you can create a bathroom that is both functional and beautiful. Happy designing!