Thinking about a bathroom that saves space without sacrificing comfort? Bathrooms with shower over bath continue to be a favourite in Perth and across WA — especially in apartments, family homes and character renovations. This guide explains when a shower-over-bath works best, how we design a safe and stylish bath and shower combination, what materials suit Perth conditions, likely costs and timelines, and how Joyce Kitchens delivers a smooth, fully managed renovation.
Why choose a shower-over-bath?
A well-designed bathtub shower combo gives you the best of both worlds: a relaxing soak and a quick shower, all in the footprint of a standard bath. It’s ideal for one-bathroom homes, growing families and rental properties where versatility adds value.
- Space-smart: Fits comfortably in a typical 1500–1700 mm Australian bath alcove.
- Family-friendly: Easier bath time for kids, with a full-height shower for everyone else.
- Budget-wise: One wet zone and shared plumbing keeps costs down.
- Resale appeal: A practical bath and shower combination is a buyer tick for many Perth suburbs.
A bath installed with a full-height shower, usually within an alcove and protected by a screen or curtain, forming one water-proofed wet area.
How Joyce Kitchens designs bath and shower combinations in WA
Joyce Kitchens is known for custom cabinetry in WA and end-to-end bathroom renovations Perth, alongside our kitchen renovations Perth and laundry renovations Perth. Here’s how we deliver a safe, beautiful shower-over-bath.
1) In-home measure and brief
We assess plumbing, waterproofing, ventilation, lighting and storage. We confirm Australian-standard bath sizes, discuss bath profiles (inset vs freestanding), and review compliance with the NCC and AS/NZS 3740.
2) Design concept and 3D render
We model your bathroom for clear sightlines, splash zones and screen geometry, planning niches, wall-hung vanity options, soft-close drawers and LED task lighting. You’ll see materials like porcelain slab, solid surface and laminate benchtop in photorealistic 3D.
3) Product and finishes selection
We guide you through slip-rated tiles, frameless shower screen options, matte black tapware, water-efficient fittings (check the WELS star rating), and cabinetry finishes that suit WA’s climate.
4) Compliance and documentation
We organise permits as required, waterproofing to AS/NZS 3740, and HIA-compliant contracts. Our licensed trades manage plumbing, electrical, tiling and glazing to local standards.
5) Build, project management and handover
We coordinate every trade, manage dust and access, and keep you updated with a single point of contact from demolition to final clean. You receive care guides and warranties for fittings and custom cabinetry.
A compliant liquid or sheet system applied to walls and floors in wet areas to prevent water ingress. It’s mandatory in shower areas and around baths used as showers.
Materials and finishes that last in Perth bathrooms
Your choices must handle steam, heat, cleaning products and everyday family use. Below are recommended options for a bath and shower combination in WA.
Tiles and grout
- Slip rating: Choose appropriate slip resistance for floors in a wet zone.
- Large-format porcelain: Fewer grout lines and easier maintenance.
- Feature splashback tiles: Herringbone or subway patterns add detail without clutter.
- Epoxy grout: Higher stain and moisture resistance compared with cement grout.
Baths and shower screens
- Inset bath with tiled surround is the most water-tight choice for a shower-over-bath.
- Consider curved-edge baths for easier standing comfort and to deflect water toward the screen.
- Frameless shower screen or pivot panel reduces visual bulk and cleans easily.
Vanities and benchtops
We build bespoke cabinetry using moisture-resistant substrates, sealed edges and durable finishes. For benchtops above an undermount basin, compare options below.
Engineered Stone vs Laminate for Bathroom Vanities
| Feature | Engineered Stone (see note) | High-Pressure Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Look and feel | Stone-like, premium finish; wide range of patterns (e.g., Caesarstone alternatives). | Vast colours, realistic stone/timber looks; modern square edges. |
| Durability | Hard-wearing and stain-resistant; heat tolerance varies. | Excellent abrasion resistance; avoid direct heat or standing water on joints. |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance, non-porous surfaces are easy to clean. | Low maintenance; wipe spills promptly and keep edges sealed. |
| Approx. cost (WA) | Mid–high (availability subject to 2024+ regulations) | Low–mid (budget-friendly) |
| Notes | Australia has introduced restrictions on high-silica engineered stone. We specify compliant alternatives or porcelain/solid surface. | Great value; pair with quality edging and moisture-resistant MDF for longevity. |
Important WA note: Due to national safety reforms from 2024, high-silica engineered stone slabs have been restricted. We can recommend compliant low-silica options or alternatives such as porcelain slab and solid surface that deliver the same premium look without the risk.
Tapware and water efficiency
- Select WELS-rated mixers and showerheads for lower water use without sacrificing pressure.
- Thermostatic mixers can add safety for kids and older users by controlling hot water spikes.
- Popular finishes: matte black, brushed nickel or chrome to coordinate with screen hardware.
Australia’s Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards scheme rates water-using products. More stars = more water efficiency.
Layouts and styles that work for a bath and shower combination
Layouts
- Alcove layout: Standard in Aussie homes; bath end wall is ideal for a shower niche and rail.
- L-shaped screen: Minimises spray at the open end and provides extra elbow room.
- Window above bath: Use privacy glass and non-wood reveals; waterproof and flash carefully.
Styles
- Contemporary coastal: Light porcelain tiles, sandy tones, wall-hung vanity, frameless screen.
- Modern classic: Shaker-style vanity fronts (a nod to the popular shaker kitchen look), brushed nickel tapware, marble-look benchtop.
- Minimal luxe: Large-format tiles, concealed cistern, LED strip lighting and a crisp niche detail.
Safety and accessibility
- Non-slip floor tiles and a grab rail positioned at the bath entry.
- Set shower mixers within easy reach of the screen opening.
- Consider a lower bath lip or step for mobility needs; add a wide rail for stability.
Costs and timelines in Perth
Every bathroom is unique, but these ballparks help plan a bathroom renovations Perth budget for a shower-over-bath:
- Cosmetic refresh (screen, tapware, vanity, paint): from $8,500–$14,000.
- Mid-range renovation (new bath, tiling, waterproofing, vanity, lighting): typically $15,000–$28,000.
- Premium fit-out (reconfiguration, premium tiles/benchtops, custom cabinetry WA, niche lighting): $28,000–$45,000+.
Typical timeline: 2–4 weeks on site after approvals and procurement. Allow extra time for custom glass, porcelain slabs or specialty fixtures.
Compliance tip: Use licensed waterproofers and plumbers. For guidance, see WA’s Building and Energy resources and industry bodies like HIA and Master Builders WA.
Practical pre-renovation checklist
- Measure the alcove: 1500–1700 mm length is standard; confirm wall straightness and studs.
- Pick your bath type: inset bath for best screen seal; consider curved backrests for comfort.
- Decide screen style: single pivot panel or framed slider based on entry space.
- Plan storage: add a shower niche and a wall-hung vanity with soft-close drawers.
- Choose low-maintenance finishes: porcelain tiles, epoxy grout, moisture-resistant cabinetry.
- Select WELS-rated tapware and a thermostatic mixer for safety.
- Confirm compliance: AS/NZS 3740 waterproofing, adequate ventilation, GPO clearances.
- Book a 3D render session: lock in colours, grout, and hardware before ordering.
Two quick WA case examples
Case 1: Subiaco apartment refresh
Goal: Fit a quality bathtub shower combo into a narrow alcove and add storage. We installed an inset 1500 mm bath, a frameless pivot screen, and a wall-hung vanity with an easy-care laminate benchtop. Large-format porcelain tiles and an LED-lit shower niche made the room feel bigger. Result: A quiet, low-maintenance upgrade under four weeks.
Case 2: Family home in Carine
Goal: Durable, child-friendly bathroom with room to grow. We specified an inset 1675 mm bath with an L-shaped screen, epoxy grout, and a solid surface vanity top over custom cabinetry. Thermostatic tapware and a slip-rated floor lifted safety. Result: Functional for bath time now and practical resale later.
FAQ
Is a shower-over-bath a good idea for small bathrooms in Perth?
Yes. A shower-over-bath maximises function in a small footprint, giving you a full shower and a soak without moving plumbing. With the right screen, slip-rated tiles and niche storage, it’s a tidy, budget-smart solution that suits Perth homes and rentals.
What type of bath works best for a bath and shower combination?
An inset bath is best for a bath and shower combination. It allows a sturdy, water-tight screen and tiling upstands. Choose a comfortable backrest, a gently curved internal edge where you stand, and adequate length (1500–1700 mm) for both bathing and showering.
Do I need to waterproof the whole room for a shower-over-bath?
You must waterproof to AS/NZS 3740 in the shower area, around the bath and on adjacent walls/floors as specified by the standard. Many Perth projects also extend membrane coverage for extra peace of mind, especially with windows or niches near the spray zone.
Are engineered stone benchtops still allowed in WA bathrooms?
High-silica engineered stone has been restricted nationally from 2024. We’ll guide you to compliant low-silica options or excellent alternatives like porcelain slab, solid surface or quality laminate that deliver the look you want without safety concerns.
How much does a shower-over-bath renovation cost in Perth and how long will it take?
Expect around $15,000–$28,000 for a mid-range renovation and 2–4 weeks on site after approvals and product lead times. Premium materials, reconfigurations or custom glass can extend both budget and timeline.
Helpful Australian resources:
WA Building and Energy ·
Housing Industry Association (HIA) ·
WELS water efficiency ratings
Ready to explore a shower-over-bath for your home? Book a design consultation at our Perth showroom and see how Joyce Kitchens can bring your bathroom — and your kitchen, laundry and wardrobe storage — to life.
