A DIY recessed shower niche is a great way to add extra storage and style to your shower. Instead of using a bulky shower caddy, a recessed niche is built directly into the wall. This not only saves space but also looks sleek and modern. In this article, you will learn how to create your own recessed shower niche. The process is easier than you might think, and the results are impressive. Let’s dive in!
Why Should You Build a DIY Recessed Shower Niche?
A DIY recessed shower niche is more than just practical; it can transform the look of your bathroom. It provides a built-in space to store shower essentials like soap, shampoo, and conditioner. By placing items in a niche, you free up space in the shower, making it feel less cluttered.
Additionally, a recessed niche looks more elegant than a simple shelf or caddy. It adds a custom touch to your bathroom. If you want a more modern and tidy shower, building a DIY recessed shower niche is the way to go. It blends in seamlessly with the wall, giving your bathroom a high-end look without the high price.
Materials You Need for a DIY Recessed Shower Niche
To build your own recessed shower niche, you will need a few basic tools and materials. Here’s what you need to get started:
- Measuring Tape – This will help you accurately measure the space where you will create the niche.
- Tile Saw – Use a tile saw to cut the tiles for the niche.
- Drywall Saw – This tool will help you cut the wall where you will place the niche.
- Shower Niche Kit – You can find pre-made kits that make building a niche easier.
- Thin-set Mortar – This is used to secure the tiles to the wall.
- Waterproof Sealant – This will ensure the niche is protected from water damage.
- Screws and Drill – These are used to secure the niche frame.
- Level – Use a level to ensure the niche is straight.
These tools and materials are commonly found at your local hardware store. Once you have everything ready, you can start building your recessed shower niche!
Measuring and Planning for the DIY Recessed Shower Niche
Before you start cutting anything, you need to plan where your recessed niche will go. First, decide how large you want your niche to be. A common size is 12×12 inches, but you can make it larger or smaller depending on your needs.
Use a measuring tape to mark the spot on the shower wall where you want the niche. It’s important to ensure that the niche is in a spot that will be easy to reach while showering. Mark the dimensions of the niche clearly with a pencil.
Once you have the niche marked, use a level to ensure your lines are straight. This is crucial for a neat and clean look. Double-check the measurements before moving forward to avoid mistakes.
Cutting the Wall for the Recessed Shower Niche
Now that you have your measurements, it’s time to cut into the wall. Use a drywall saw to carefully cut along the pencil lines you marked earlier. If you’re cutting into tile, use a tile saw to create clean, straight cuts.
When cutting drywall, be sure not to cut too deep. You only need to remove the drywall in the marked area, not the studs behind it. If you hit any studs, adjust your measurements to avoid cutting through them.
Once you’ve cut through the wall and removed the drywall, check the opening. It should match the size of the niche you planned. If there are rough edges, use sandpaper to smooth them out. This will help the niche frame fit properly.
Installing the Niche Frame
Once the hole is cut, you can install the niche frame. This frame will hold the tiles and give the niche its shape. If you’re using a pre-made shower niche kit, follow the instructions that come with it.
For a custom frame, use waterproof material to ensure it won’t be damaged by moisture. Secure the frame to the wall using screws and a drill. Make sure the frame is level before tightening the screws.
Once the frame is in place, double-check that it fits snugly in the wall. It should be securely attached to the studs or other supporting materials. This will help keep the niche sturdy and strong.
Tiling the Recessed Shower Niche
The next step in creating your DIY recessed shower niche is tiling. Use thin-set mortar to attach the tiles to the wall. Apply a small amount of mortar to the back of each tile and press it firmly into place on the niche frame.
Start with the back tiles and then move to the sides of the niche. Make sure to leave small gaps between the tiles for grout. If you’re tiling around corners, use corner tiles to create a clean, finished look.
As you go along, use a level to make sure the tiles are straight. If the tiles are uneven, adjust them before the mortar sets. It’s better to fix any mistakes early on than to deal with them later.
Grouting and Sealing the Niche
After all the tiles are set, it’s time to grout. Use a grout float to spread the grout over the tiles. Be sure to fill in all the gaps between the tiles. Once the grout is in place, wipe off any excess with a damp sponge.
Let the grout dry for about 24 hours before using the shower. After the grout has dried, apply a waterproof sealant to the grout lines. This will protect the grout from water damage and mold.
Don’t forget to seal the edges of the niche, where the tiles meet the wall. This will help prevent water from getting behind the tiles and causing damage.
How to Make Your DIY Recessed Shower Niche Look Stylish
Once your DIY recessed shower niche is installed, you can make it look even better with a few finishing touches. Here are some ideas to enhance the look of your new niche:
- Use Decorative Tiles – Add some color or texture by using decorative tiles for the back of the niche. Glass tiles or mosaic tiles can give your niche a unique look.
- Add Lighting – Install small LED lights around the niche to make it stand out. This adds a modern touch and makes the niche more functional.
- Use a Shelf – For added storage, install a small shelf inside the niche. This will allow you to store additional items or place decor.
- Choose the Right Grout – Consider using grout that matches or contrasts with your tiles to create visual interest.
With these simple ideas, you can make your DIY recessed shower niche both stylish and functional.
DIY Recessed Shower Niche for Small Bathrooms
If you have a small bathroom, a recessed shower niche is the perfect solution. It helps maximize your storage space without taking up extra room. Instead of using bulky shelves or caddies, the niche blends right into the wall.
In small bathrooms, it’s important to keep things tidy. A DIY recessed shower niche helps keep your shower essentials organized and out of sight. The clean lines and sleek design of a recessed niche can make a small bathroom feel more spacious.
By building a recessed shower niche, you make the most of your bathroom’s layout. It’s a great way to add extra storage while maintaining a stylish, uncluttered look.
DIY Recessed Shower Niche for Large Bathrooms
Even in larger bathrooms, a recessed shower niche can be a great addition. It provides storage without taking up any valuable floor space. Plus, it looks clean and modern, making your bathroom feel more luxurious.
In large bathrooms, you have more room to experiment with the size and design of your recessed niche. You could even install multiple niches for added storage. These niches can be used for different purposes, such as holding shampoo, towels, or decorative items.
A recessed shower niche in a large bathroom gives the space a high-end feel. It’s a simple feature that makes a big difference in how your bathroom looks and functions.
FAQs About DIY Recessed Shower Niche
1. How deep should my DIY recessed shower niche be? A standard depth for a shower niche is 3 to 4 inches. This is deep enough to hold shampoo bottles, soap, and other shower essentials.
2. Can I install a recessed shower niche in any type of wall? You can install a recessed niche in drywall, cement board, or tile walls. However, it’s easier to install it in a wall that has studs for support.
3. Can I build a recessed shower niche in an existing shower? Yes, you can add a recessed niche to an existing shower. Just be sure to plan carefully and cut the wall without damaging any plumbing or wiring.
4. What type of tiles should I use for a shower niche? Ceramic, porcelain, or glass tiles are popular choices for shower niches. They are water-resistant and easy to clean.
5. How do I maintain my DIY recessed shower niche? To keep your niche clean, wipe it down regularly with a mild cleaner. Make sure the grout lines are sealed to prevent water damage and mold buildup.
Conclusion
A DIY recessed shower niche is a simple and effective way to add both function and style to your bathroom. Whether you have a small or large bathroom, installing a recessed niche is a great way to create more storage space while keeping your shower organized. With the right materials and tools, you can easily build your own recessed shower niche and enjoy a more stylish, clutter-free bathroom. So, grab your tools and start your DIY project today