walk in shower with tub small space

Maximize Small Spaces: Walk-in Shower with Tub Combo

By William Walker
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Maximizing your small bathroom space doesn't mean you have to compromise on comfort or style. A walk-in shower with a tub combination can be both functional and luxurious, even in compact spaces. Let's explore how to make the most of your small bathroom with this versatile setup.

Walk-in showers with tubs are perfect for small spaces as they offer both a shower and a bathtub in one unit, saving valuable square footage. They also provide a seamless, open feel, making your bathroom appear larger. But with so many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Let's dive into the details.

Choosing the Right Walk-in Shower with Tub

The first step is to decide on the type of walk-in shower with tub that best suits your needs and space. Here are two popular options:

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Compact Bath & Shower In One Space
Compact Bath & Shower In One Space
11 Budget Replace Tub With Walk In Shower Ideas That Save Money
11 Budget Replace Tub With Walk In Shower Ideas That Save Money
a bath room with a toilet a tub and a shower head mounted to the wall
a bath room with a toilet a tub and a shower head mounted to the wall

Shower-Tub Combination Units

These are pre-fabricated units that combine a shower base with a built-in tub. They are easy to install and perfect for small bathrooms as they come in various compact sizes. Some even have a sliding or folding door to save space when not in use.

Examples include the American Standard Studio Series or the Delta Haywood Shower-Tub Combo. They offer a quick and easy solution for small spaces, with many models featuring modern, sleek designs.

a bathroom with a large white bathtub next to a walk in shower and toilet
a bathroom with a large white bathtub next to a walk in shower and toilet
Photo 13 of 15 in San Clemente Sweeties by Katie Betyar
Photo 13 of 15 in San Clemente Sweeties by Katie Betyar
65+ Compact Bathroom Design Ideas That Pack a Punch
65+ Compact Bathroom Design Ideas That Pack a Punch

Walk-in Showers with Alcove Tubs

For a more custom look, consider a walk-in shower with an alcove tub. This involves installing a shower base and a separate alcove tub in the same space. While it requires more planning and installation work, it offers more flexibility in design and size.

You can choose from various tub styles, such as clawfoot, slipper, or soaking tubs, and pair them with a shower base that fits your space. This option is ideal if you want a more personalized look and have a bit more room to work with.

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Designing Your Small Bathroom Space

Once you've chosen your walk-in shower with tub, it's time to design the rest of your small bathroom space. Here are some tips to make the most of your compact area:

14 Soaking Tub Shower Combo Ideas Everyone Wants in 2026
14 Soaking Tub Shower Combo Ideas Everyone Wants in 2026
a white bath tub sitting next to a walk in shower
a white bath tub sitting next to a walk in shower
Small Bathroom Ideas: Modern Designs to Maximize Your Space
Small Bathroom Ideas: Modern Designs to Maximize Your Space
a white toilet sitting next to a bath tub in a bathroom under a window with blue tiles on the floor
a white toilet sitting next to a bath tub in a bathroom under a window with blue tiles on the floor
a bath tub sitting inside of a bathroom next to a walk in shower
a bath tub sitting inside of a bathroom next to a walk in shower
12+ Walk-In Showers With You Haven't Seen on Every Blog
12+ Walk-In Showers With You Haven't Seen on Every Blog

Maximize Vertical Space

In small bathrooms, vertical space is often overlooked. Consider installing wall-mounted fixtures like vanities, shelves, or even a wall-hung toilet to free up floor space. You can also add tall, narrow cabinets or open shelving to store bathroom essentials.

Examples include the IKEA STOCKHOLM wall-mounted cabinet or the Delta Trinsic Wall-Mounted Toilet. They not only save space but also create a sleek, modern look.

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Use Light and Color to Your Advantage

Light colors and reflective surfaces can make a small bathroom feel larger and brighter. Opt for light-colored walls, tiles, and fixtures to maximize natural light. You can also add artificial lighting, such as wall sconces or pendant lights, to enhance the space.

the bathroom is clean and ready to be used as a bathtub, shower, and sink
the bathroom is clean and ready to be used as a bathtub, shower, and sink
a bath room with a toilet a sink and a bath tub next to a window
a bath room with a toilet a sink and a bath tub next to a window
a modern bathroom with white marble walls and flooring, along with wooden cabinetry
a modern bathroom with white marble walls and flooring, along with wooden cabinetry
the bathroom is clean and ready for us to use
the bathroom is clean and ready for us to use
9 Small Bathroom Tub & Shower Layouts That Actually Work
9 Small Bathroom Tub & Shower Layouts That Actually Work
a white bath tub sitting next to a toilet under a bathroom light above a sink
a white bath tub sitting next to a toilet under a bathroom light above a sink
Shower Tub Combo Layouts That Maximize Bathroom Space
Shower Tub Combo Layouts That Maximize Bathroom Space
Maison Greene :: bathroom - Modern - Bathroom - Montreal - by Bipède | Houzz
Maison Greene :: bathroom - Modern - Bathroom - Montreal - by Bipède | Houzz
Bathroom
Bathroom
a white bath tub sitting next to a toilet
a white bath tub sitting next to a toilet

Consider using a large mirror or a mirrored medicine cabinet to reflect light and create the illusion of a larger room. The Rejuvenation Schoolhouse Vanity Mirror or the Restoration Hardware Vintage Industrial Medicine Cabinet are great options.

Lastly, consider the future. As your needs change, so might your bathroom. Opt for a walk-in shower with tub that can grow with you. For example, a shower-tub combo with a sliding door can be easily converted to a walk-in shower by removing the door when you no longer need the tub.

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