Simplifying how to finish your shower niche
Finishing a shower niche(aka shampoo shelf) can be done in several ways. Most commonly, the shower niche is trimmed using metal trim profiles. Metal trim profiles for shower niches come in a variety of colors and raw metal finishes, as well as a variety of shapes.
In this post we'll explore 3 different ways to finish a shower niche using the metal trim profiles as well as other materials such as stone and tile. The goal of the post is to help you decide which design option you like best so you can be prepared when building a custom shower.
1. Metal trim profile shower niche
The most common method of trimming a shower niche is using a metal trim profile. Metal trim profiles create a clean, framed look for a custom shower niche. Tile supply stores typically stock standard colors like black, white, aluminum, gold and a few other brushed metal finishes. It is important to keep in mind that the colors and finishes available may not match your tile exactly. It is best to take a sample of your tile when selecting a metal trim profile at a tile supply store so you can see the tile next to the metal trim profile and find a finish that pairs well with your tile. Here are two photo examples below of shower niches finished with metal trim profiles.


2. Stone slab accent trim shower niche
This method uses a stone slab, typically marble, granite or quartz to finish a shower niche. Some tile supply stores will stock stone material in 6"x6' sizes that you can use to build a custom look for your shower niche. A best practice that is often used in custom shower design is to use the same stone slab material for the shower curb and shower niche so both pieces are matching. This ties together the stone material for a well designed look.
Another common practice for shower niches is to use an accent tile on the back wall of the niche like the photos below. The accent tile can be matching other adjacent tiles like the floor tile used in the shower or other nearby tile pattern.


3. Bullnose tile trim shower niche
Bullnose tile trims are another popular option for finishing shower niches. It is important to know that not all shower wall tiles have a bullnose accessory trim available. With this in mind, if you plan to trim your shower niche with bullnose trim, you will want to select a tile that has a matching bullnose trim available. You can ask your tile supply store which of their shower wall tile options has matching bullnose trim available.


Now that you have seen three of the most popular ways to finish a shower niche, you should be able to decide on how to finish the niche in your custom shower. The photo examples provided in this post are just suggestions to guide you to the right finishes. The fun part is that with a custom shower you can build a custom niche any way you like, so get creative.
Want to get more advice about custom shower builds and bathroom remodels? Read our post on the 5 ways to finish a shower curb.
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