How To Make A Custom Shower Niche From Scratch

Posted on December 14th, 2023

Creating a custom shower niche is more than just a trendy addition to your bathroom; it's a practical and stylish way to enhance your daily routine. 

Imagine stepping into a shower that not only meets your functional needs but also reflects your personal style. This is where the magic of a custom shower niche comes into play. 

It's not just about storing your shampoos and soaps; it's about seamlessly integrating functionality with aesthetics. Building a custom shower niche allows you to optimize your bathroom space, adding value and convenience. 

In this blog post, I'll walk you through the process of making a custom shower niche from scratch, sharing my expertise and insights gained from years of experience in bathroom remodeling services.  

Whether you're considering a simple upgrade or a complete bathroom overhaul, understanding how to build a custom shower niche is a valuable skill. So, let's dive into the world of custom bathroom solutions, where practicality meets elegance, and every detail counts in crafting your perfect bathroom space. Get ready to transform your bathroom into a haven of comfort and style with your own personalized shower niche.

1. Planning Your Custom Shower Niche

Before diving into the construction of your custom shower niche, it’s crucial to lay the groundwork with meticulous planning. This initial stage sets the tone for the entire project, ensuring that the final result is not only beautiful but also perfectly integrated into your bathroom space.

Understanding Your Space

The first step in crafting a custom shower niche is to thoroughly assess the space where it will be installed. This involves measuring the dimensions and considering the existing layout of your bathroom. It's vital to think about how the niche will interact with other elements like plumbing, lighting, and tiling. 

My approach involves visualizing the niche within the space, ensuring it enhances the bathroom's functionality without disrupting its flow. This step is about finding the sweet spot where practicality meets design, creating a niche that feels like it was always meant to be part of your bathroom.

Design Considerations

Once the location is set, it's time to delve into the design aspects of your custom shower niche. This is where you can let your creativity shine. The size, shape, and style of the niche should align with your overall bathroom theme and personal preferences. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a more traditional aesthetic, the design of your shower niche can be tailored to match. 

In this phase, I also consider the types of items the niche will hold. A deeper niche might be needed for larger bottles, while a shallower one could be perfect for smaller toiletries. The key is to create a balance between form and function, ensuring your custom shower niche is both a visual delight and a practical addition to your bathroom.

2. Choosing the Right Materials

Selecting the appropriate materials is a pivotal aspect of building a custom shower niche. The choice of materials not only impacts the durability and functionality of the niche but also plays a significant role in its overall appearance. In my experience, the right materials can make or break the success of a custom shower niche project. 

Therefore, I take great care in advising on and selecting materials that not only meet the aesthetic requirements but also stand the test of time in the humid environment of a shower.

Foam Boards vs. Cement Boards

When it comes to building a custom shower niche, the debate often centers around foam boards versus cement boards. Foam boards, like Wedi board, are known for their waterproof nature and ease of use. They are lightweight, easy to cut to size, and don't create airborne dust, making them a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. 

Cement boards, such as Durock and Hardibacker, offer a robust alternative. While they are not inherently waterproof and require additional waterproofing membranes, their strength and resilience make them a viable option for shower niches. My approach typically involves evaluating the specific needs and preferences of the project to determine the most suitable material. Whether it's the flexibility and waterproof qualities of foam boards or the sturdiness of cement boards, each has its unique advantages.

Additional Materials and Tools

In addition to the main building boards, there are several other materials and tools essential for constructing a custom shower niche. This includes waterproofing membranes like Kerdi or Redgard for cement boards, thinset mortar for adhering the boards, and the appropriate tools for cutting and installing the materials. 

The choice of sealants, screws, and trowels also plays a crucial role in ensuring a secure and watertight installation. I always emphasize the importance of quality materials and tools, as they contribute significantly to the longevity and functionality of the shower niche. From my toolbox to the finishing touches, every component is chosen with the utmost care to ensure the best possible outcome.

3. Constructing the Niche

With the planning complete and materials at hand, it's time to delve into the actual construction of the custom shower niche. This phase is where precision and craftsmanship come into play. My focus here is on ensuring that every step of the construction process is carried out with attention to detail, resulting in a shower niche that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound.

Framing the Niche

Framing is the first step in constructing the niche. It involves creating a sturdy and well-measured frame within the shower wall to house the niche. This process requires careful consideration of the niche's size and placement, as well as the structural integrity of the wall. I ensure that the framing does not compromise any load-bearing elements or plumbing within the wall. The use of blocking around the edges of the niche provides additional support and creates a solid base for the backer board. My experience in framing has taught me the importance of precision – even a small miscalculation can affect the final result.

Installing the Backer Board

Once the frame is in place, the next step is to install the backer board. This involves cutting the board to fit the dimensions of the framed niche and securely attaching it to the frame. If using cement board, I apply a layer of thinset mortar to adhere it to the wall, ensuring a firm and level surface. For foam boards, the process might involve using specialized adhesives and sealants to create a waterproof seal. The installation of the backer board is a critical step, as it forms the foundation upon which the tiles and finishing touches will be added. My approach is to ensure that this foundation is as perfect as possible, setting the stage for a beautifully finished custom shower niche.

4. Waterproofing and Finishing Touches

The success of a custom shower niche hinges on its ability to withstand constant exposure to water. This is why waterproofing is not just a step in the process; it's the backbone of the entire project. As a professional bathroom remodeling, I've seen firsthand the importance of thorough waterproofing. It prevents water damage, mold growth, and ensures the longevity of the shower niche. In this section, I will guide you through the most effective waterproofing methods and how to add the essential finishing touches that bring the niche together.

Effective Waterproofing Methods

Waterproofing a shower niche involves different techniques depending on the type of backer board used. For foam boards like Wedi or Kerdi, the process is relatively straightforward since these materials are inherently waterproof. 

However, I always reinforce the seams with a specialized sealant to ensure complete water resistance. When it comes to cement boards, additional steps are necessary. This includes applying a waterproof membrane like Kerdi or a liquid waterproofing product such as Redgard. I ensure that every corner, seam, and edge is meticulously covered, leaving no room for moisture penetration. This meticulous approach to waterproofing is what sets apart a professionally built shower niche from the rest.

Adding the Finishing Touches

After ensuring that the niche is fully waterproof, it's time for the finishing touches. This usually involves tiling the niche, which is an opportunity to add a personal aesthetic touch to the bathroom. 

Selecting the right tiles, cutting them to fit the niche perfectly, and then laying them with precision is an art form in itself. I pay close attention to the alignment of tiles, grout color selection, and the overall visual appeal of the niche. The final step is sealing the tiled surface to protect the grout and tiles from moisture and soap scum. This not only adds to the waterproofing but also makes the niche easier to clean and maintain over time.

5. Customization and Personalization

A custom shower niche is more than a functional space in your bathroom; it's a reflection of your style and preferences. In this final section, I'll discuss how to personalize your shower niche, making it uniquely yours. Whether it's through advanced customization options or simple, elegant designs, the goal is to create a niche that resonates with your personal style and enhances your bathroom's overall ambiance.

Tailoring to Individual Preferences

Customization is at the heart of every project I undertake. This involves understanding your specific needs and preferences and then translating them into the design and construction of the shower niche. 

Whether you prefer a minimalistic design or a more ornate look, the niche can be tailored to suit your taste. I consider factors like the color scheme of your bathroom, the types of items you plan to store in the niche, and how the niche complements other elements in the space. This bespoke approach ensures that your shower niche is not just a functional addition but also a personal statement in your bathroom.

Advanced Customization Options

For those looking to take their shower niche to the next level, there are numerous advanced customization options available. This could include integrating LED lighting for a modern touch, adding unique tile patterns or mosaics for visual interest, or incorporating innovative storage solutions like built-in dispensers. These advanced features not only enhance the functionality of the niche but also add a wow factor to your bathroom. As a professional in bathroom remodeling, I enjoy pushing the boundaries of design and functionality, creating shower niches that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Conclusion: Your Dream Shower Niche Awaits

In wrapping up, building a custom shower niche is a journey that blends functionality with personal style. It's about making your bathroom not just a space but a reflection of your taste and lifestyle. From the initial planning and material selection to the intricate details of waterproofing and customization, each step is crucial in crafting a niche that not only stands out but also stands the test of time. 

My commitment to excellence in bathroom remodeling ensures that your vision for a perfect shower niche becomes a reality. A custom shower niche is more than a storage space; it's a statement piece in your bathroom. If you're ready to take the first step towards enhancing your bathroom with a custom shower niche, don't hesitate to reach out. 

Contact me at (203) 779 6311 or [email protected], and let's transform your bathroom into a space that you adore. Your dream shower niche, tailored to your unique preferences and needs, is just a call or an email away.