Custom Showers: The Features Homeowners Never Regret Adding | Casey's Custom Tile - St. Louis, MO
The Best Walk-In Shower Features That Add Comfort, Function, and Long-Term Value
When homeowners start planning a bathroom remodel or a new custom home, the shower often becomes one of the most exciting spaces to design. It's also one of the most personal.
Unlike trends that come and go, certain custom shower features continue to prove their value year after year. They improve functionality, simplify daily routines, and create a space that feels both luxurious and practical.
At Casey's Custom Tile, we've installed countless custom showers throughout the St. Louis area, and we've noticed something interesting: there are a handful of features homeowners consistently tell us they're glad they included.
If you're planning a custom bathroom, these are the upgrades worth considering.
1. Built-In Shower Niches
One of the most requested features in modern shower design is a built-in niche.
Instead of cluttering your shower with hanging baskets or corner shelves, a recessed niche creates dedicated storage that's built directly into the wall.
Benefits include:
Keeps shampoo and soap organized
Creates a clean, custom appearance
Eliminates bulky storage accessories
Can become a beautiful design feature with accent tile
The best niches aren't simply installed - they're carefully planned so grout lines and tile patterns remain symmetrical across the entire shower.
That's one of those small details that makes a custom installation stand apart.
2. Linear Drains
Traditional center drains have served bathrooms well for decades, but linear drains have become increasingly popular in luxury shower designs.
They offer several advantages:
Cleaner, more modern appearance
Better compatibility with large-format tile
Easier floor slope design
Excellent option for curbless showers
Simplified cleaning and maintenance
Because water drains in a single direction, linear drains also allow for larger tile on the shower floor - creating a more seamless, upscale look.
3. Shower Benches
Whether you plan to use it every day or only occasionally, a built-in shower bench is one of those features homeowners rarely regret.
A bench provides:
A comfortable place to sit
Easier shaving and personal care
Additional storage space
Improved accessibility as needs change over time
Even homeowners who initially questioned adding a bench often say it becomes one of their favorite features after moving in.
4. Large-Format Tile
Large-format tile has become one of the defining features of modern bathroom design.
Its appeal goes beyond appearance.
Benefits include:
Fewer grout lines
Easier cleaning
More open visual feel
Contemporary aesthetic
Less visual interruption across the walls
Large tile requires careful planning and precise installation. Even slight inconsistencies become noticeable, making experienced installation especially important.
5. Accent Walls That Create a Focal Point
Sometimes one wall is all it takes to transform an entire shower.
Accent walls allow homeowners to introduce:
Decorative tile
Textured surfaces
Mosaic patterns
Natural stone
Unique layouts like herringbone or stacked designs
Rather than overwhelming the room, a well-designed feature wall creates balance and draws attention exactly where it's intended.
6. Heated Tile Floors
Few upgrades receive as much positive feedback after installation as heated tile flooring.
Especially during Midwest winters, stepping onto a warm floor instead of cold tile can completely change the experience of using your bathroom.
Radiant heat also distributes warmth evenly and works exceptionally well beneath porcelain and natural stone tile.
7. Curbless Shower Entries
Curbless showers continue to grow in popularity for both aesthetic and practical reasons.
Advantages include:
Modern, open appearance
Easier accessibility
Aging-in-place benefits
Improved resale appeal
Seamless transitions between bathroom and shower
Proper waterproofing and floor preparation are critical when designing a curbless shower, making professional installation especially important.
8. Thoughtful Tile Layout
Interestingly, homeowners often spend weeks selecting tile but only minutes discussing the layout.
Yet layout is one of the biggest factors affecting the finished appearance.
Professional tile installers consider:
Centering patterns
Avoiding tiny cuts along edges
Aligning grout joints
Symmetry around niches
Visual balance throughout the shower
It's these planning decisions that separate a custom installation from an average one.
If you're interested in learning more, read our article:
What Most People Get Wrong When Planning a Tile or Flooring Project.
Invest in Features You'll Appreciate Every Day
Bathrooms are among the most frequently used spaces in any home.
While it's easy to focus on finishes and colors, the features you choose ultimately determine how the space functions for years to come.
When thoughtfully designed and professionally installed, custom shower features don't simply improve appearance...they improve everyday living.
Whether you're building a custom home or remodeling an existing bathroom, investing in quality craftsmanship helps ensure those features perform just as beautifully as they look.
Partner With Casey's Custom Tile
At Casey's Custom Tile, we specialize in custom showers, tile flooring, hardwood installation, backsplashes, and luxury tile work throughout the St. Louis area.
From planning the layout to completing the final grout line, every project is completed with precision, attention to detail, and craftsmanship that lasts.
If you're planning your next bathroom renovation or custom home, we'd love to help bring your vision to life.
