If you know me at all, you'll know that I love change. I stay in one place for too long and it just doesn't feel right. For example, I'll often rearrange my furniture just because I want a different feel. So, when my parents' bathroom needed a tune-up, you can imagine how hard it was to keep me in the same place. Their bathtub was so big and conspicuous, taking up a good portion of the room, that I just couldn't help but want to change things up.
Then I thought about it: what if the space could be utilized better? There was actually nothing I didn't like about the bathtub, but I knew there were other options. So, after careful consideration, I decided to replace the tub with a simple and generous stand-alone shower. I'll tell you the result in advance: it was definitely the best decision I've ever made!
Before I continue, let me be clear: this was not an impulse decision. I didn't just wake up one day and think, “Hey, why don't we tear out this perfectly good bathtub and replace it with a design that doubles the bathroom space!” It wasn't like that. It took me months of careful consideration of various design options and countless swipes of Google (of course it did) to finally confirm that this was the right decision.
But really, this makeover isn't just about looking good. There are some practical reasons behind it, and I'm excited to share those with you.
1. Space, Space, Space
This is probably the most immediate reason. If you've ever tried to fit a big, bulky tub in a small bathroom, you'll understand how I feel. It took up so much space that we didn't actually use it as often as we thought we would. As a result, this big, beautiful tub sat unused most of the time, wasting so much space. But when I swapped it out for a shower base? Oh man, did it open up the room.
If you switch to a standing shower, the bathroom looks instantly bigger. I mean, the bathtub no longer takes up as much visual space and the whole bathroom looks more spacious and airy. Frameless showers, in particular, give it a fresh, open feel. I wanted that atmosphere that was both airy and spacious, making the whole room look more extended. And it worked.
What’s also nice is the way a standing shower makes the whole bathroom flow better. With the tub gone, everything is more streamlined, and it just looks cleaner. More efficient. Like it was always meant to be this way.
2. The Shower Experience (It’s About Time)
Now, I love a good bath. I really do. To be honest, I prefer to shower. I'm not sure if it's because I'm in a rush in the morning or because it's more convenient to take a shower, but in any case it works better for me this way. Truth is, a lot of people, especially my parents, prefer the quickness and convenience of a shower to a bathtub. So why not cater to that?
And, I knew it would make the overall experience better. I chose a spacious walk-in shower with a rain shower head, and oh my goodness, it felt like a daily spa day! The water spilled overhead and the large glass walls of the bathroom made the whole space look bright and open with plenty of room to move around - I can't believe I didn't realize how much I needed that before. The bath was certainly comfortable, but the shower gave a completely different feeling, not to mention relaxing and enjoyable.
Also, let’s not forget—showers are just easier to clean. You don't have to worry about soap scum accumulating on the edge of the tub or mold growth. Bathrooms are easier to keep clean this way, and I tend to like the simplicity and low cost of living.
3. Better for My Parents’ Health (No More Tub Climbing)
This practice is more practical, but very important to me. My parents are getting older and baths are sometimes not that safe for them. My biggest fear is that they will fall or struggle too much in the tub and get hurt.
I replaced the tub with a standing shower so the whole bathroom is much safer. No more awkwardly straddling the edge of the tub and no fear of slipping. The shower stall I chose has a very low threshold and is easy to get in and out of, especially for anyone who doesn't have to worry about losing their balance. I also put in a grab bar for added safety (even if you don't think you need it, it really helps).
But honestly? Seeing my parents use the bathroom more comfortably is the best reward. Sometimes the best design choices aren't just about looking good, but about making life easier and less stressful for the people who use the space.
4. Modern Aesthetics: Clean, Simple, Elegant
I'll admit, I really am completely in love with modern design. It's clean, sleek, and timeless. So, when I thought about the vibe I wanted for this bathroom, I knew the tub would have to be removed. The tub itself was fine, but it did seem a little ...... well, bulky. And the whole concept of “modern” wasn’t really being served by that old tub anymore.
Instead, I went with a simple glass partitioned shower. The clean lines, neutral tones, and kind of minimalist style went well with the bathroom. It felt like a breath of fresh air to the room and the whole space was suddenly quieter.
The best part? Because of the simplicity of the design, it rather accentuates the other elements in the room - like those beautiful tiles my mom chose and the sleek dresser that is now the focal point. It all seems to blend together effortlessly.
5. The Final Touch: The Shower Bench
Okay, I wasn’t about to leave this bathroom transformation without adding just a little something special. So, I threw in a small, built-in shower bench (it’s totally a game-changer, by the way). I know, I know—this seems extra, but trust me, after spending a little time sitting on that bench during a shower? I was sold.
It's really perfect when you just want to relax in the warm water and lean back and relax. And it adds a bit of luxury that makes the whole experience more spa-like.
Would I Ever Go Back to a Tub?
Honestly? Probably not. I mean, I still get nostalgic about the old tub. It had its charm. But looking at this standing shower, and feeling how much better it fits the flow of the space? I totally approve of this decision. It was literally a fresh start for the bathroom. After making this change, I don't regret it at all.
If you're thinking about swapping your bathtub for a shower, I'm telling you right now - go for it. Whether you want a cleaner aesthetic, a more functional space, or an easier-to-care-for option, it's a worthwhile change. There's no need to get too complicated or redo your entire bathroom. Just take out that bathtub and replace it with something that better suits your needs. You definitely won't regret it.
Well, that's it for today's chat. If you're also thinking about upgrading your bathroom, or just want to discuss home design, feel free to leave a comment below! I love hearing about everyone's experiences and would be happy to answer any questions you may have. Thanks for reading and I'll see you next time! I'll continue to update and slowly remodel each room in this house to make it more your own.
FAQs
Is it easy to slip on a standing shower base? My parents are older and slip resistance is important.
Non-slip was a key factor I considered. While a standing shower is safer than a traditional tub, I purposely chose a base with a non-slip texture so that I could avoid slipping even in slippery conditions. For my parents, the non-slip design was especially important. So in addition to choosing a non-slip floor, I also installed a non-slip mat in the shower and added bathroom grab bars to make sure it's safer for them to use.
What can parents do to adapt to a standing shower if they are not quite used to it?
Changing bathroom designs does take some getting used to. I designed it with this in mind, making sure the shower was spacious enough so that parents didn't feel cramped or overwhelmed by the space. I also installed a seating bench and grab bar to make the transition to the new way smoother and safer for them. To make it easier for them to use, I specifically chose a simple and easy-to-use hot and cold water regulator to make sure they can get started easily. After getting used to it for a while, they'll realize that a standing shower is actually much more convenient than a bathtub.
Do showers leak? My parents don't pay much attention to water flow sometimes.
I totally understand the concern! That's why I specifically chose a high-quality sealing system to make sure it won't leak even after long hours of use. The edge of the shower base has a specially designed waterproof edge to prevent water from splashing out. And the glass partition is installed very precisely and the seal is made to ensure that water won't flow to the rest of the bathroom. If you are also worried about water leakage, it is recommended to get a professional installation team to handle the details and make sure that every aspect is done right.
Related Articles
If you're interested in remodeling your bathroom and enhancing the functionality of your home, I've also compiled quite a few related articles on my side, including how to choose the best shower design for you and bathroom storage hacks, feel free to click through and see if any of them can inspire you!
