Walk-In Showers: Are They the Future of Bathroom Design? • ArtFasad

Bathroom design has moved away from bulky tubs and closed-in corners toward cleaner, more open layouts. In many remodels and new builds, walk-in showers have replaced traditional tub-shower combinations as the preferred option. These showers eliminate raised thresholds and swing doors, creating a more streamlined and accessible layout.

This design shift aligns with broader demographic trends: approximately 17.3% of the U.S. population was aged 65 or older as of 2022, and this figure is projected to surpass 20% by 2030. As America’s population continues to age, demand for accessible bathing solutions like walk-in showers is likely to grow.

Beyond accessibility, homeowners value walk-in showers for their visual openness, easier maintenance, and efficient use of limited space. These showers have become particularly popular in primary bathrooms and renovations intended for aging in place. But the question remains: Are walk-in showers a smart long-term investment—or just a passing design trend? This article explores the facts behind their rise.

What Is a Walk-In Shower?

A walk-in shower is a fully tiled, open, or partially enclosed showering space that does not include a bathtub. It typically features a low curb or no threshold at all, creating a seamless entry point from the bathroom floor. Some walk-in showers have fixed glass panels or half-walls, while others remain completely open with a sloped floor to direct water to a central or linear drain.

Unlike a traditional tub-shower combo, a walk-in shower prioritizes continuous floor space, faster drainage, and easier access. It eliminates bulky enclosures, curtain rods, or step-in tubs, making the space feel larger even in smaller bathrooms. This design supports minimalist aesthetics and improves usability for people with mobility limitations, particularly when paired with non-slip tile and a bench or grab bars.

Standard Dimensions of Walk-In Showers

Building code minimums set the smallest interior shower size at 36 inches by 36 inches, which provides basic functionality but limited comfort. According to the International Residential Code (IRC) P2708.1, this is the minimum size allowed for a shower compartment in most U.S. residential projects.

For more comfortable daily use, most designers recommend a walk-in shower measuring at least 48 inches by 36 inches. This extra width allows enough space for stretching, turning, or placing a bench without interfering with water flow.

ADA-compliant guidelines follow stricter measurements to ensure accessibility. Transfer-type showers must include a seat that extends from the back wall to within 3 inches of the entry. The overall shower typically measures 36 inches square, with a clear floor space adjacent to the entrance for side transfer from a mobility aid.

Standard roll-in showers must measure at least 30 inches wide by 60 inches deep inside, measured at the center points of the opposing walls. They also require a minimum 60-inch-wide entry across the face of the shower, allowing unobstructed access for wheelchair users. These specifications support aging-in-place designs and improve safety for users with limited mobility, particularly when paired with grab bars and slip-resistant flooring.

Is a Walk-In Shower Cheaper Than a Tub?

Cost depends on several variables: demolition requirements, plumbing adjustments, waterproofing systems, tile choice, and whether the shower is prefabricated or custom-built.

Basic walk-in shower installation starts at around $1,000–$3,000 for prefab kits.
Custom walk-in showers range between $5,000–$15,000 or more, depending on finishes, glass enclosures, and tile work.
In comparison, bathtub-shower combo installations often cost between $1,500–$5,000, which may make them cheaper in many standard builds.

The average cost of a walk-in shower installation in the U.S. is $9,000, though prices can rise sharply with custom tile, high-end fixtures, or built-in seating.

Walk-in showers may cost more upfront but often require less long-term maintenance. They also appeal to aging-in-place buyers and add resale value in modern remodels. In compact or primary bathrooms, they may also reduce the need for space-consuming tubs, which saves square footage and improves usability.

Pros and Cons of Walk-In Showers

Walk-in showers appeal to a wide range of homeowners. If you’re planning to update your bathroom, it’s important to weigh their advantages against factors like layout, lifestyle, and available space. While the design offers practical benefits, it also comes with trade-offs that should be considered early in the planning process.

Pros	Cons
Easier to CleanMinimal joints, no door tracks, and fewer surfaces to scrub.	Water Containment IssuesOpen designs may allow splashing if drainage or layout is poor.
Improved AccessibilityLow or no threshold helps users with mobility limitations.	Less Heat RetentionOpen layout cools faster than enclosed tubs or shower stalls.
More Usable Floor SpaceEliminates bulky tubs and increases visual openness.	Reduced PrivacyGlass panels and open entries may not suit all households.
Customizable LayoutFlexible size and placement options based on space.	Not Ideal for All UsersHomes with children or only one bathroom may need a tub.
Modern AestheticSupports clean, open, and updated bathroom design.

Types of Walk-In Showers

Walk-in showers come in a few distinct formats, each with specific use cases and design implications. Choosing the right type depends on how much control you need over water containment, how much space is available, and what features matter most.

Wet Room Style: This format removes all enclosures. The shower shares floor space with the rest of the bathroom and the entire room is waterproofed. It requires careful floor grading and a central or linear drain. Best for fully tiled bathrooms and small spaces where separation isn’t critical.

Glass Panel Showers: A fixed glass panel replaces full enclosures. Water stays contained while keeping an open view. Panels are often frameless, 3/8” thick, and extend 48–60 inches. Ideal for mid-size bathrooms.

Curbless Showers: These use a flush transition between the bathroom floor and the shower zone. Requires recessed subfloor or pre-sloped pan. Often paired with wide entries for ADA compliance.

Prefab Walk-In Units: These are molded acrylic or fiberglass kits with built-in walls and pans. They install faster and cost less than tile showers. Common in secondary baths or budget-conscious remodels.

Final Thoughts: Are Walk-In Showers a Good Idea for Most Homes?

Walk-in showers make sense for many households—but not all. Their usefulness depends on bathroom layout, household needs, and long-term plans.

In primary bathrooms, walk-in showers often improve space efficiency and reduce maintenance. Removing a tub can free up several feet of floor area, especially in older homes where tubs were installed by default. For aging homeowners or those with mobility issues, curbless entries and built-in benches make daily use safer and more convenient.

Walk-in showers also work well in multi-bath homes where at least one tub remains elsewhere. However, in homes with only one bathroom, eliminating the tub may hurt resale value—especially for families with young children. Some buyers still view a tub as essential.

Walk-in showers are a good idea when they align with how people actually use the space. They’re best suited for owners who value open design, accessibility, and reduced upkeep—and who can make that choice without sacrificing broader household needs.