Tiled Shower Niches

A niche is set into the wall build-up rather than added on top. In a stud wall it sits between the studs; in a solid wall it's cut in, depending on the wall's thickness and what's behind it. Because a niche breaks into the waterproof surface of the shower wall, it's far easier to plan it before the wall is boarded, waterproofed and tiled than to add one afterwards.

The size and height depend on the wall, the tiles and what you want to keep in it. A common approach is to size the niche to whole tiles, or to the tile joints, so its edges line up with the wall tiles. Position it where it's easy to reach but out of the main spray, and check what's inside the wall first: pipes, cables and studs all affect where a niche can go.

Ready-made niche formers come in standard sizes and are fixed into the wall, then waterproofed and tiled. They give a consistent shape. A niche can also be built from tile backer board to a custom size that suits the tile layout.

The inside of a niche is part of the shower wall and must be waterproofed just as carefully. Every corner, joint and seam is sealed with the waterproofing system's tapes and membrane before tiling, following the manufacturer's instructions. A niche that isn't properly waterproofed lets water into the wall behind, which is why the shower is tanked before tiling.

The bottom of the niche is built with a slight slope towards the shower so water runs out rather than sitting in the corners. It's a small detail that keeps the niche cleaner and protects the grout and silicone.

Shower niche tiles are set out so the grout lines continue from the surrounding wall. The edges are finished with mitred tiles or a metal trim, depending on the tile and the look you want. Inside the niche you can use the same tile as the wall, or a contrasting tile or mosaic as a feature.