How to Remodel the Shower Right Next to the Toilet

Draw to scale on graph paper the existing bath footprint. Leave the toilet drain where it is, if possible, because changing the toilet placement is time consuming. Draw the vanity space and storage cabinets, as well as placement for the new shower. Define exactly how much square footage you can spare for the shower unit.

Choose appropriate shower materials. Plan to install a glass wall from waist-high level to the ceiling on top of a studded wall that is enclosed on the bottom half, for example. Select tile that will fit on the outer shower wall next to the toilet and tile that will fit on the bottom half of the interior shower wall. Pick out the shower door, light fixture and recessed lighting for the ceiling level and faucets.

Turn off plumbing and electricity to the bathroom. Gently pry loose the old shower with a crowbar and other tools after disconnecting faucets. Make sure a dividing wall between the shower and toilet is not a load-bearing one before you tear it down. Secure the ceiling with side support framing constructed of 2-by-4-inch boards to absorb the ceiling weight, if the wall is load bearing.

Install recessed lighting over the shower. Determine whether an overhead standard light fixture will be installed after you remodel the shower. Design the standard ceiling light fixture to fit appropriately in relation to the shower door and other bath components.

Build back surround walls or half walls for the shower, as needed. Cover the exterior of the walls facing into room areas with tile or wooden beadboard paneling. Install glass doors or wall sections to finish the shower enclosure. Connect new faucets and drains after finishing the shower interior.