7 Bathroom Shower Remodel Ideas: Architects Share the Features That Are Worth It

A shower remodel can completely change how your bathroom looks, feels, and functions, but knowing which upgrades are actually worth it isn’t always obvious. From walk-in layouts to thoughtful materials and built-in features, the right bathroom shower remodel ideas can improve daily comfort while adding long-term value.

In this Redfin guide, we’ll share architect-approved insights on what makes a great shower, highlighting features that balance style, function, and longevity—and can positively impact your home’s value. 

You’ll hear directly from architects about which upgrades matter most and how to avoid common remodel mistakes. Whether you’re updating a primary bath in your home in Edmond, OK or planning ahead for resale value in your home in McKinney, TX, these tips can help you move forward with confidence

1. Build a statement walk-in shower that works for real life

A walk-in shower can be a true focal point in a bathroom spa experience, but the best designs balance visual impact with everyday usability. Aric Gitomer of Aric Gitomer Architect shares, “A shower remodel isn’t just about function—it’s about creating a space that fits your lifestyle,” and what feels “essential” can look very different from one household to the next.

Many homeowners still dream of a primary bath that feels elevated, featuring:

• “A large walk-in shower with a rain showerhead and handheld sprayer.”
• A comfortable layout that can accommodate two users.
• A design that feels intentional, not purely utilitarian.

For households with young children, Gitomer notes that “a bathtub is often non-negotiable for bath time,” but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of a standout shower. As homeowners age, priorities often shift toward long-term comfort and safety. 

While lifestyle needs may change, certain upgrades have lasting appeal.. According to Gitomer, “some features transcend age and lifestyle,” pointing to modern comfort-forward additions that combine convenience with everyday luxury—proving that a well-designed walk-in shower can evolve with the people who use it.

2. Design for accessibility now (even if you don’t think you need it yet)

Designing a bathroom with accessibility in mind is one of the most practical decisions you can make during a shower remodel, even if it does not feel immediately necessary. Planning ahead can help ensure the space remains comfortable, safe, and easy to use as needs evolve over time.

Gitomer explains that “the focus shifts to accessibility and comfort,” with features like roll-in showers, grab bars, and ample space to help ensure the bathroom remains both practical and enjoyable over time.

In a shower remodel, accessibility often comes down to smart layout and planning decisions, such as:

• Roll-in or curbless shower entries that reduce tripping hazards.
• Wider clearances that make movement easier and more comfortable.
• Reinforced walls that allow grab bars to be added later if needed.
• Benches or ledges that provide a place to sit without cluttering the space.

3. Nail the shower basics that impact comfort every single day

A great shower does not rely on flashy upgrades. Instead, it comes down to getting the fundamentals right so the space feels comfortable, calm, and easy to use every day. According to Sloan Springer of Sloan Springer Architect, the most successful showers focus on performance, safety, and simplicity.

For Springer, those basics start with water flow and materials that shape the daily experience:

• “A rain head for great water flow” to create a consistent, comfortable shower experience.
• “Large-format wall tile” that helps the space feel calm and expansive.
• “Smaller floor tiles” that improve traction and reduce slipping.

Storage and moisture control are just as important for long-term comfort and maintenance. Springer emphasizes the value of thoughtful planning in these areas, including:

• “Plenty of built-in space to keep bottles and things uncluttered.”
• “A properly sized vent fan” to pull out moisture and “reduce mildew over time.”

By prioritizing these bathroom essentials, homeowners can create a shower that feels balanced, functional, and comfortable every single day.

4. Build storage into the shower, not onto it

Clutter is one of the fastest ways to make a shower feel cramped and unfinished. Instead of relying on hanging caddies or corner racks, thoughtful shower design incorporates storage directly into the layout. Built-in solutions help keep everyday items within reach while maintaining a clean, intentional look.

When planning shower storage, architects often prioritize options that feel seamless and easy to maintain, such as:

• Recessed niches placed at a comfortable height for daily use.
• Horizontal ledges that run along the wall for multiple bottles.
• Built-in shelving that aligns with tile lines for a cohesive look.
• Corners and low-profile recesses that maximize space without protruding.

Integrating storage from the start also helps protect finishes and simplify cleaning. By designing storage into the shower walls rather than attaching accessories later, homeowners can create a space that feels organized, durable, and designed with daily routines in mind.

5. Add a built-in bench for comfort, safety, and everyday ease

A built-in bench is one of those shower upgrades that quietly improves how the space functions every day. It adds comfort, supports accessibility, and makes the shower easier to use for a wide range of needs. Rosario Mannino, Founder of MANNINO, explains, “A built-in bench is one of the most functional upgrades you can add to a shower—it enhances comfort, accessibility, and the overall experience of the space.”

Beyond comfort, benches also offer practical benefits that go beyond sitting. When thoughtfully designed, they can:

• Provide a safe place to sit while showering or shaving.
• Make the shower easier to use for kids, older adults, or anyone recovering from injury.
• Double as a spot to rest products without cluttering the floor.

6. Use continuous stone or tile to make the shower feel architectural

Material continuity can dramatically change how a shower looks and performs over time. Rather than treating finishes as separate components, architects often recommend extending the same stone or tile throughout the shower to create a cohesive, architectural feel. This approach helps the space feel more refined and intentional.

From a design standpoint, Mannino suggests thinking beyond just the shower floor or curb. He explains that “cladding the entire shower opening in marble, not just the curb,” and “carrying the stone up and around the surround creates a sense of quiet elegance and architectural refinement.” The result is a shower that feels elevated without relying on ornate details.

Using continuous stone or tile also offers practical benefits, including:

• Fewer grout joints, which helps simplify cleaning.
• Reduced areas prone to moisture buildup, mildew, or mold.
• A more seamless transition between walls, benches, and openings.
• A timeless look that holds up well over years of use.

As Mannino notes, this kind of detailing “performs exceptionally well over time,” making it a smart choice for homeowners who want a shower that looks good and lasts. 

7. Don’t skip ventilation—it’s the upgrade you’ll appreciate long-term

Ventilation may not be the most exciting part of a shower remodel, but it is one of the most important. Proper airflow helps protect finishes, reduce moisture buildup, and keep the shower comfortable to use day after day. Without it, even the most beautiful materials can start to show wear far too soon.

When planning ventilation for a shower remodel, it helps to think beyond the bare minimum. Smart considerations include:

• Installing a vent fan that is properly sized for the bathroom, not just the shower.
• Positioning the fan to effectively pull moisture from the shower area.
• Choosing a quiet model so it actually gets used.
• Venting air outside rather than into an attic or enclosed space.

Good ventilation supports nearly every other shower upgrade, from picking tile and stone to benches and built-in storage. By prioritizing airflow early in the remodel process, homeowners can help extend the life of materials, reduce ongoing maintenance, and keep the shower feeling fresh and comfortable over time.

Bathroom shower remodel ideas that balance comfort, style, and longevity

Choosing the right bathroom shower remodel comes down to how the space works for your daily routine now and in the future. From walk-in layouts and thoughtful storage to durable materials and accessibility-focused features, the best upgrades prioritize comfort, longevity, and ease of use. With the right mix of smart planning and thoughtful design, your shower can become a space that feels both personal and practical for years to come.