Tile Shower Niches: Design Ideas & Placement Tips
A well-designed tile shower niche is one of those small details that makes a big impact. Shower niches add built-in storage, keep your shower organized, and elevate the overall look of your bathroom. When planned and installed correctly, they blend seamlessly into the design—feeling intentional, polished, and built to last.
At CT Tile & Remodeling, we design and install custom tile shower niches as part of full bathroom remodels and shower installations throughout Glenside, PA and the surrounding Philadelphia suburbs. Below, we’ll walk through what shower niches are, how to design them, where to place them, and why professional installation matters.
This is the first article in our 3-part shower storage series, designed to help homeowners make confident, informed remodeling decisions.
What Is a Tile Shower Niche?
A shower niche is a recessed shelf built directly into the shower wall. Unlike corner caddies or surface-mounted storage, tile shower niches are framed, waterproofed, and tiled as part of the shower system itself.
Because they’re built into the wall cavity, shower niches offer:
Clean, uncluttered storage
Easy access to everyday shower items
A custom look that complements your tile design
When installed correctly, a shower niche feels like it was always meant to be there—both functional and visually appealing.
Why Homeowners Choose Them
Shower niches continue to be one of the most requested features in modern bathroom remodels. Here’s why:
Built-In Storage Without Visual Clutter
Shampoo bottles and soap stay neatly tucked away, keeping your shower looking open and organized.
Design Flexibility
Tile shower niches can blend in with surrounding tile or stand out as a design feature using accent tile, mosaics, or even contrasting grout.
Durability
When properly waterproofed and tiled, niches are built to withstand daily moisture and long-term use.
Adds Value
Custom tile details—like niches—enhance both functionality and resale appeal.
Tile Shower Niche Design Ideas
A shower niche doesn’t have to be purely practical. With thoughtful design, it can become a focal point.
Seamless & Subtle
Using the same tile inside the niche as the rest of the shower creates a clean, cohesive look.
Accent Tile Niches
Mosaic tile, patterned designs, or bold colors add contrast and personality without overwhelming the space.
Horizontal vs. Vertical Niches
Horizontal niches work beautifully in modern showers and are ideal for long walls.
Vertical niches fit well between wall studs and suit traditional layouts.
Double Niches
Two stacked niches separate everyday items from decorative or guest-use products.
At our Glenside showroom, homeowners can explore tile combinations and see how different materials work together before committing.
Shower Niche Placement: What Works Best
Placement is just as important as design. A poorly placed niche can feel awkward—or worse, become inconvenient.
Standard Height
Most shower niches are installed between chest and eye level for easy access.
Avoid Direct Water Spray
Placing niches away from the main showerhead helps reduce water pooling and soap buildup.
Consider Multiple Users
In shared bathrooms, niche height and size should accommodate different needs.
Plan Around Tile Layout
Proper planning ensures grout lines align and the niche looks intentional—not forced.
Professional planning ensures your niche feels balanced, practical, and visually integrated into the shower design.
Why Proper Installation Matters (Waterproofing Is Key)
A shower niche is only as good as its installation. Because it penetrates the shower wall, waterproofing is critical.
At CT Tile & Remodeling, we use Schluter waterproofing systems, which are designed to protect your shower from moisture intrusion behind the tile.
Professional installation ensures:
Proper framing and slope for drainage
Seamless waterproofing integration
Long-term durability
Peace of mind
Cutting corners during installation can lead to leaks, mold, and costly repairs—issues we work hard to prevent.
Tile Choices for Shower Niches
Not all tile works equally well in niches. We help homeowners select materials that balance style and function.
Popular choices include:
Porcelain and ceramic tile for durability
Mosaic tile for visual interest and easy slope
Coordinating grout colors for a clean look
Whether you choose materials from our showroom or bring your own, we ensure they’re suitable for wet environments and long-term performance.
Are Shower Niches Right for Every Bathroom?
While shower niches are a great solution for many spaces, they’re not the only option. In some layouts, shower shelves may offer more flexibility or storage capacity.
That’s why this article is part of a larger series:
Shower Shelves Explained: Built-In Storage Options for Modern Bathrooms
Shower Niches vs. Shower Shelves: Which Is Right for Your Bathroom?
We’ll help you decide what works best for your space, lifestyle, and design goals.
Why Homeowners Trust CT Tile & Remodeling
Quality craftsmanship you can trust
Free in-home estimates
Tile showroom in Glenside, PA
Serving homeowners throughout the Philadelphia suburbs
Built to last, designed to impress
From layout planning to final grout lines, we approach every project with precision and care.
Ready to Add a Tile Shower Niche to Your Bathroom?
Whether you’re planning a full bathroom remodel or upgrading your shower, a custom tile shower niche can elevate both style and function.
Schedule your free in-home estimate or visit our Glenside showroom to explore tile options and talk with our remodeling experts.
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