Is a Built-In Shower Seat Right for You?
There are many reasons to install a built-in shower seat in your bathroom. A shower with a built-in seat not only creates a more luxurious environment but also allows those with mobility issues to shower safely. But is a built-in option right for your space and your needs?
Here’s everything you need to know about built-in shower seats, including benefits, design ideas, and key installation considerations.
What Is a Built-In Shower Seat?
A built-in seat in a shower is a permanent bench or ledge integrated into the shower's structure. Unlike removable stools or fold-down models, built-in seats are finished to match the shower walls and floor.
While portable seating is great for flexibility, built-in versions offer better stability, a more cohesive design, and easier cleaning. That’s why so many people consider them for bathroom remodels.
Benefits of Built-In Shower Seats
Adding a built-in shower seat is a smart and functional upgrade that adds value to your bathroom in multiple ways. Here's why more homeowners are making the switch to showers with a built-in seat:
- Improved accessibility. Whether you’re planning to age in place or simply want a safer experience, built-in seats make it easier to bathe without standing for long periods. They’re especially helpful for seniors, kids, or anyone with mobility issues.
- Improved comfort. A built-in bench gives you a spot to unwind, making your daily shower feel more like a spa treatment. Plus, built-in seats make tasks like shaving your legs, scrubbing your feet, or applying skincare much more comfortable and efficient.
- Added storage. No more crowding shampoo bottles on narrow ledges. A seat provides extra surface space for storing toiletries and soaps.
- Enhanced resale value. Walk-in showers with built-in seating are attractive to buyers and add a high-end feel to your bathroom.
Popular Built-In Shower Seat Styles and Ideas
If you’re looking for built-in shower seat ideas, we’ve got them. First, you’ll want to decide on the material. Materials commonly used for built-in seats include:
- Tiled concrete or cement board
- Quartz or granite slabs
- Solid surface materials like Corian
- Teak or moisture-resistant wood (for a spa feel)
Then, you’ll want to choose your style. Here are a few common choices that look great in both modern and classic bathrooms.
1. Corner Shower Seats
- Great for: Compact showers, minimalist designs
- Style tip: Choose a stone slab for a seamless look.
A corner shower seat that’s built in fits snugly into a 90-degree angle. They provide functionality without crowding the floor. Typically, they’re triangular and made from tile, stone, or solid surface material.
2. Full-Length Shower Benches
- Great for: Large walk-in showers or luxury builds
- Style tip: Match your bench tile to the rest of your shower for a spa-inspired effect.
Spanning the width or length of the shower wall, these full-width benches offer maximum comfort and flexibility. You can sit, recline, or even store items on them.
3. Floating or Cantilevered Benches
- Great for: Contemporary bathrooms with open, airy designs
- Style tip: Use quartz or solid surface material for durability.
A floating seat is mounted directly to the wall without visible supports. This adds a modern touch and makes floor cleaning easier.
4. Fold-Down Shower Seats
- Great for: Accessibility-focused showers and small spaces
- Style tip: Opt for wood or teak slats with stainless steel brackets to make it feel like you’re in a spa.
Even though fold-down shower seats technically aren’t "built-in," they still can be a good choice for adding a seat in your shower. They save space when not in use and can be reinforced to meet safety needs.
5. Tiled Custom Benches
- Great for: Design continuity and full customization
- Style tip: Consider adding a mosaic tile accent or waterfall edge.
Custom-tiled seats can be built to any size or shape to match your shower's tilework exactly. They’re the best choice if you’re doing a full bathroom remodel.
Things to Consider Before Installing a Built-In Seat in Your Shower
Before committing to a seat in your shower, weigh these practical concerns:
- Shower size. Built-in benches take up space. In small showers, a corner seat may be better than a full bench.
- Support and framing. Seats must be properly framed and reinforced to hold body weight safely.
- Drainage. Sloping the seat slightly (1/4” per foot) allows water to run off instead of pooling.
- Waterproofing. Beneath the tile, waterproof membranes help prevent leaks or mold.
- Accessibility. If you're building for aging in place, make sure the height and location suit your long-term needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How wide are built-in shower seats?
Most built-in shower seats are 12 to 24 inches wide, depending on the available space and design.
How deep should a built-in shower seat be?
A comfortable seat depth is usually 15 to 18 inches from front to back. This provides enough room for safe seating without crowding the shower.
Can I add a built-in seat to an existing shower?
It’s possible, but it’ll require a professional’s handiwork. Adding a built-in seat to an existing shower involves cutting into the wall or building a support frame, followed by waterproofing and retiling.
Are built-in shower benches safe for seniors?
For older adults, a seat combined with grab bars and a handheld showerhead enhances both safety and convenience. Learn more about aging in place and walk-in showers.
Get Your Shower Seat Built In to Revamp Your Bathing Experience
When you install a built-in shower seat, you’re making your bathroom a safer place and giving yourself an extra bit of luxury.
While installing a built-in shower seat is usually a simple endeavor, it can affect the existing plumbing in the shower. For instance, a drill bit going into the wall could hit a water pipe. That’s why it’s best to consult a professional plumber prior to installation.
Roto-Rooter can help with the installation and plumbing adjustments needed to bring your vision to life. Call us today to start planning your shower remodel.