shower over bath ideas

10 Shower Over Bath Ideas for a Space-Saving Makeover

Written by: Dimitri Zobnin

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Time to read 8 min

If you’re short on space but don’t want to give up the luxury of a bath or the convenience of a shower, a shower-over-bath setup is the perfect answer. It’s a practical choice for small bathrooms, busy families, or anyone who wants the best of both worlds.


In this post, we’ll explore 10 shower-over-bath ideas from our design experts to inspire your next bathroom upgrade, whether you’re after something stylish, a space-saving solution, or simply something easy to clean.

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1. Go Frameless for a Sleek Finish

frameless glass shower screen

One of the easiest ways to make a shower over bath look modern is to use a frameless glass shower screen. This creates clean lines and a contemporary look, keeping the space feeling open and making cleaning simpler.


For a sleek finish, consider pairing the frameless glass screen with a wall-mounted shower, which is easy to install, space-efficient, and perfectly complements a modern bathroom design.

Benefits:


  • Helps light flow through the room

  • Creates a more spacious feel

  • Easy to wipe clean

  • Works well in both small and large bathrooms

  • Enhances the contemporary look of your bathroom with clean lines and a sleek design

Pair it with a wall-mounted bath tap and rainfall shower head to finish the look.

2. Choose a Shower Bath with Curved or L-Shaped Ends

bath with curved end

Some baths are specifically designed for this kind of setup. Look out for P-shaped or L-shaped shower baths, which have unique shapes.


P-shaped shower baths feature a curved end, while an L-shaped bath has a more angular, contemporary design, both providing more room at the shower end and offering both aesthetic appeal and functionality.

Why they work:


  • Extra space for showering without taking up more floor area

  • Modern and practical

  • Great for families or shared bathrooms

When choosing a shaped bath, it's important to select the right shower screens to match. For example, curved screens are ideal for P-shaped shower baths, as they follow the bath's curved design, preventing splashes and enhancing the overall look.

3. Tile Up with Confidence

shower over bath ideas

Tiles make a big difference to how your bathroom feels. For a shower-over-bath, choose large-format tiles to keep grout lines to a minimum and create a clean backdrop. Choosing the right floor tiles can further enhance the look and feel of your bathroom.

Top tile tips:


  • Use textured tiles for better grip underfoot

  • Stick to waterproof grout

  • Consider tiling up to the ceiling to protect walls and stop mould

  • Select tile colours and finishes that reflect natural light to help brighten the space

Mix patterns or colours to highlight the shower area or make the bath feel more built-in.

4. Pick a Bold Shower Head

bold shower head

Just because your shower is over the bath doesn’t mean it has to be boring. In fact, this is the perfect spot to make a statement. A bold shower head instantly draws the eye and adds character whether you’re working with a cosy en-suite or a full family bathroom.


Matte black, brushed brass, or classic chrome finishes bring a modern edge and help tie the whole look together. Want that rainfall effect? Or prefer a powerful jet to wake you up in the morning? Look for adjustable settings so everyone in the household gets their perfect shower experience.


At House of ENKI, we’ve got a wide range of stylish, high-quality shower heads that don’t just look the part they’re built to perform, too. Designed to suit different setups, our options work beautifully with both modern bathrooms and traditional bathrooms.


It’s a simple upgrade that makes a big impact without needing to change your whole layout.

5. Add a Shower Niche or Recessed Shelf

Storage is often limited in bathrooms. Built-in shower niches or shelves above the bath keep everything neat and within reach.


What to store:


  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Soap and body wash

  • Decorative touches like candles or small plants

Just make sure the niche is placed high enough to stay dry when you run a bath. 


From a practical perspective, this ensures your storage remains both accessible and protected from moisture, balancing convenience with everyday usability.


Need inspiration? Check out our stylish and functional shower niche ideas to help plan the perfect built-in shelf for your bathroom.

6. Go Compact with a Corner Bath

corner bath

Don’t overlook corner baths. A fitted bath positioned in the corner can create the illusion of more space in a smaller bathroom, as it takes up less wall space and can still include a full shower setup.


Alternatively, a freestanding bath or freestanding tub can also be positioned in a corner to serve as a luxurious focal point and maximise available space in both small and large bathrooms. 


For more ideas, explore our clever ways to make your small bathroom feel bigger.

Perfect for:


  • Awkward room shapes

  • En-suites or cloakrooms

  • Adding a unique layout

  • Smaller bathrooms where maximising available space is essential

Fit a curved or angled glass screen to complete the look without compromising on usability.

7. Use a Folding or Sliding Screen

sliding shower screen
Not a fan of a fixed panel? Try a folding or sliding glass screen. It’s ideal for tighter spaces and makes it easier to access the bath for cleaning or bathing children.

Pros:


  • Space-saving

  • Can fold away when not in use

  • Keeps the bathroom looking tidy

Look for sturdy fittings and a clean design to keep it feeling modern.

8. Choose the Right Tap and Shower Combo

If you’re upgrading, don’t forget the taps. Thermostatic shower valves and thermostatic bath taps give you full control over water temperature and flow.

Popular styles:


At House of ENKI we stock a wide selection of high-quality brassware in multiple finishes to suit every bathroom style.

9. Add Wall Panels for Quick Renovations

shower over bath with wall panels

Want a faster alternative to tiling? Waterproof wall panels are a brilliant option if you’re after a simple, mess-free upgrade. They can be fitted straight over existing tiles or plasterboard and come in a wide range of finishes, from realistic marble effect to sleek concrete or cosy woodgrain.


They’re ideal if you want to give your bathroom a new look without tearing everything out.

Why they’re useful:


  • Speedy to install: Great for weekend projects or quick makeovers

  • Easy to wipe clean: No scrubbing grout lines

  • No grout = less mould: A more hygienic option, especially in busy family bathrooms

  • Seamless look: Gives your shower area a smooth, modern finish

Wall panels are perfect if you want a stylish backdrop behind your bath without all the faff. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a fitter, they’re a straightforward way to refresh your space with minimal disruption.

10. Lighting and Finishing Touches

finishing touches

Once the big bits are in place, it’s the details that make your bathroom feel complete. Lighting plays a big part in this; it’s not just practical it sets the mood too.


Think LED mirrors for that morning glow-up, recessed spotlights above the bath for a clean look, or waterproof strip lights tucked around the bath panel for a touch of hotel-style luxury.


And don’t forget those finishing touches. A few clever additions can really lift the look and feel of your shower-over-bath setup.

Finishing ideas worth considering:


  • Soft-close toilet seat: No more late-night bangs.

  • Matching brassware: Tie the look together with taps, shower heads, and accessories in the same finish (chrome, matte black, brushed brass, take your pick).

  • Wall-mounted towel rails: Free up floor space and keep towels warm and dry.

  • Shower curtain or screen?: A well-chosen curtain adds personality, provides privacy, and helps prevent water splashes, adding a touch of luxury. Curtains are also practical for managing water splashes around the tub, while a sleek glass screen keeps things modern.

These little upgrades make a big difference to both the look and everyday use of your bathroom. It’s where style meets practicality without going over the top.

Final Thoughts

Using a tub with a shower setup is a clever way to save space and is a practical alternative to a separate shower, especially in smaller bathrooms where every inch counts. With the right layout, finishes, and fittings, shower-over-bath designs can be stylish, practical, and perfect for busy households or relaxing evening soaks.


At House of ENKI, we’re here to help you get the most out of your bathroom. Explore our full collection of shower heads, bath mixers, and accessories to find the perfect match for your space.


Want more bathroom ideas and product inspiration? Subscribe to our newsletter and get 5% off your first order, plus exclusive access to new arrivals, style tips, and expert advice. It’s the easiest way to stay one step ahead.


And don’t forget to check out the House of ENKI blog for more design ideas and how-to guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I install a rainfall shower in a shower-over-bath setup?

Rainfall shower heads work well in these setups, especially when mounted high on the wall or ceiling. Just make sure the screen or panel provides enough splash protection.

2. Are over-bath shower setups suitable for families with children?

Yes, they’re ideal. You get the convenience of a quick shower for adults, and the bath remains perfect for washing younger children. Just make sure the screen opens easily and fittings are durable.

3. What type of tap should I use with a shower over a bath?

Bath shower mixer taps are the most versatile. Choose one with a diverter to switch between the tap and the shower head. Thermostatic versions are ideal for keeping the water temperature consistent.

4. Can I add a hand-held shower to my setup?

Yes. Many bath shower mixer taps include a hand-held attachment. They’re great for rinsing down the bath, cleaning, or washing kids and pets.

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Dimitri Zobnin

Dimitri Zobnin is one of the co-founders of House of ENKI and brings his wealth of experience in home fixtures and design to each blog post. Passionate about high-quality kitchen and bathroom fittings, Dimitri provides practical advice on selecting products that suit your home’s needs. His insights are shaped by years of hands-on experience and a commitment to thoughtful design. Outside of writing, Dimitri enjoys keeping up with the latest trends in home improvement and tackling his own DIY projects.