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The inclusion of curves within interiors peaked as a trend a few years back (when every sofa was curved and ball-shaped cushions filtered down on to the high street), but they remain popular and are consistently used by designers due to their ability to soften a room and make it more pleasing to the eye. Curves calm a space that is otherwise full of straight edges and if you’re planning a bathroom renovation this summer, have you thought about installing a curved shower enclosure that acts as a key focal point for a modern (yet timeless) bathroom?

As well as having aesthetic appeal, a curved shower enclosure makes smaller spaces feel less boxed in, softening the harder lines featured via the tiling and grout. Here are five ideas for incorporating a curved shower enclosure in your bathroom at home:

Use a Curved Corner Enclosure to Reclaim Space

A curved corner enclosure can fit neatly into an angled space and give it purpose, all while making a small room feel less boxy. It still gives enough room when in the shower, but frees up floor space in the rest of bathroom. If you want to explore different sizes and door styles, this curved shower enclosure at Heat and Plumb is a useful reference point.

Pair a Curved Shower with a Freestanding Bath

A curved enclosure sits more comfortably alongside a freestanding bath because the shapes relate to one another (this works particularly well in bathrooms over 6m²). By keeping the shower in the corner and allowing the bath a bit of space - either along a clear wall or slightly into the room - helps maintain open sight lines as you walk in. Leave around 600mm between the bath and the enclosure keeps things easy to navigate without that subtle sense of restriction.

Go Frameless to Keep the Room Feeling Open

Frames, edges, and metal profiles all add definition within a bathroom, highlighting border areas and possibly making the room feel more enclosed. If this is of concern, look to installing a frameless curved enclosure which blends in more with the other details within the room.

Most frameless curved enclosures use 8mm toughened safety glass that meets safety standards to not require an outer frame. As well as feeling less imposing, a frameless shower enclosure tends to be easier to clean as there are fewer edges and joins that allow limescale build up (a quick squeegee after use, followed by a regular clean, is usually enough to keep it clear).

Match the Enclosure Finish to Existing Fixtures

While mixed metals are currently a trend, most people like to carry the same finish throughout their bathroom for a considered and cohesive palette. Chrome is the most widely chosen option, while brushed nickel brings a bit more warmth -(and suits softer colour palettes and natural materials). Matt black can create a strong look, but be careful of using black fittings and fixtures within a bathroom as they will highlight limescale and water marks more than metal finishes.

Consider a Walk-In Curved Panel for a Larger Bathroom

In larger bathrooms, a walk-in curved panel offers a more open approach and can create a luxurious look.

FAQs

What sizes do curved corner shower enclosures come in?

Curved corner enclosures come in a range of quadrant sizes, from compact options for bathrooms under 4m² to larger versions for more generous layouts.

Do I need a specific tray for a curved shower enclosure?

Yes - curved enclosures need a matching quadrant tray with a curved edge.

Is frameless glass safe for a family bathroom?

Yes, as long as it meets safety standards, where the toughened safety glass designed to break safely.

How do I keep a curved shower enclosure clean?

A quick squeegee after each use makes a big difference, then a weekly clean with a non-abrasive product keeps everything clear. In hard water areas, deal with limescale early before it builds up.

Can a curved shower enclosure work in a bathroom under 4m²?

Yes - a compact curved enclosure with a sliding or bi-fold door works well because it doesn’t need extra clearance outside the tray.

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