A custom tile shower is one of the most personal and high-impact features in a new home. Beyond just being functional, it can serve as a daily retreat and a standout design element. From layout and materials to grout and glass, there are several details to think through when planning your perfect shower.

1. Layout and Size

The first step is understanding how your shower will fit within the overall bathroom layout. Consider:

  • Space and flow. Is there room for a walk-in design or a glass enclosure?
  • Bench or niche placement. Built-in benches, ledges, and niches can add comfort and convenience while keeping the look streamlined.
  • Door swing and glass placement. We work with you early in the process to ensure plumbing and tile layouts align with door and glass measurements.
Modern bathroom with a glass-enclosed custom tile shower, freestanding bathtub, towel on a rack, and separate toilet area, featuring neutral tones and natural light from a window—perfect for anyone designing tile showers.
A tiled shower with a built-in bench, a wall-mounted shower control, and a frosted organizer holding bath products highlights the elegance of custom tile showers.
Modern shower with beige tiled walls showcases expert Tile Shower Design, featuring a gold showerhead and handheld sprayer, three bottles of toiletries, and a soap dish on a small ledge.

2. Tile Selection

Your tile choice sets the tone for the whole shower. We typically help clients select:

  • Main wall tile – Often a larger format tile for a clean look and fewer grout lines.
  • Accent tile – Mosaics, patterns, or a contrasting color to create interest in a niche or feature wall.
  • Floor tile – Smaller tiles or mosaics with texture are used for better traction and drainage on shower floors.

For added visual interest, we can incorporate accent ribbons (a decorative horizontal band that breaks up the main tile) or vertical accent columns to draw the eye upward and create a custom, high-end look. These accents are great opportunities to tie in colors or materials used elsewhere in your home.

Modern walk-in shower with gray tile walls and floor, a mosaic accent strip, built-in bench, grab bars, glass door, and black shower fixtures—perfect for showcasing unique tile pattern selections in your new home.
A tiled walk-in shower with a wall-mounted showerhead, a built-in corner shelf, and a metal grab bar along the left wall showcases thoughtful tile layout for your new home.

3. Grout and Waterproofing

Behind every beautiful tile shower is careful attention to detail. Proper waterproofing is essential for long-term performance. We ensure that all tile showers are built using trusted systems designed to protect against moisture. Grout color and type also matter—lighter shades create a softer look, while darker grout can add definition and hide wear over time.

4. Function and Feel

The best tile showers blend beauty with practicality. We help clients think about:

  • Ease of cleaning. Larger tiles and minimal grout lines are lower maintenance.
  • Comfort features. Heated floors, handheld sprays, or rain shower heads can elevate the experience.
  • Lighting. Consider overhead lighting or wall sconces to highlight the tile and improve visibility.
Spacious bathroom with a glass-enclosed walk-in shower, tiled walls and floor showcasing stunning tile pattern selections, a window, wooden accents, and a toilet with two towel racks above it—ideal for your new home.
A metal squeegee is placed upright in a recessed tiled niche on a stone-tiled shower wall, showcasing thoughtful tile layout and stylish tile pattern selections in this new home.
A metal shower handle is mounted on a wall of yellow, brown, and gray stone tiles, showcasing an elegant tile layout. A dark bath pouf hangs in the upper right corner—an inviting touch for any new home.

5. Budget and Customization

Because every custom shower is designed uniquely, pricing can vary based on tile choices, layout complexity, and installation details. During the selections process, we walk you through options that balance style, performance, and budget to create a shower that truly fits your home. We also use mood boards and visual tools to help you picture the final space and feel confident in your selections.

Designing Your Dream Shower

At Lakefront Building & Design, we walk you through every step—from layout planning to tile selection—to ensure your shower is not only beautiful but built to last. With the right combination of materials and craftsmanship, your custom tile shower becomes more than a bathroom feature—it’s a personal sanctuary.