From compact ensuites to family bathrooms, here are bathroom shower bath ideas that work in Australian homes, with design and build expertise from Joyce Kitchens Perth.
Core shower–bath ideas for Aussie bathrooms
Whether you’re planning a new family bathroom, ensuite or combined wet room, the right shower–bath solution balances function, safety and style. Below are practical bathroom shower bath ideas—and how we tailor them for Western Australian homes.
1) Shower-over-bath: the space saver
- Great for small homes and apartments; combine a walk-in shower feel with a full-size tub.
- Choose a back-to-wall bath with an integrated semi-frameless screen for safer entry and easier cleaning.
- Opt for a slip-resistant bath base (look for P ratings suitable for wet areas per Australian Standards).
2) Freestanding bath with separate walk-in shower
- A premium look for larger bathrooms: a sculptural freestanding bath paired with a frameless shower screen and tiled nib wall.
- Add a tiled shower niche and a ledge behind the bath for storage and styling.
3) Wet room with bath inside the shower zone
- European-inspired: shower and bath share a fully waterproofed space—great for easy cleaning and family bathing.
- Requires meticulous falls to floor wastes and compliant waterproofing (AS/NZS 3740).
4) Curbless entry and linear drains
- Level-entry showers improve accessibility and create a sleek, modern line.
- Linear drains allow larger-format tiles with minimal cuts for a seamless finish.
5) Style moves that lift any bathroom
- Matte black or brushed nickel tapware with thermostatic mixers.
- Subway tiles in a stacked or herringbone pattern; mosaic feature tile in niches.
- Warmth via timber-look vanity fronts or VJ panelling (moisture-resistant options only).
A recessed shelf built into your shower wall to store toiletries. Waterproofed and tiled for durability and easy cleaning.
A bath installed flush against a wall so there’s no hard-to-clean gap. Often used with a shower screen for shower-over-bath setups.
At Joyce Kitchens, our designers bring kitchen-level detailing—like custom cabinetry, soft-close drawers and Blum hardware—into bathrooms and laundries to maximise storage and resilience in humid spaces.
Our renovation process (design to installation)
1) In-home or showroom consult
We discuss lifestyle, family needs and style direction—Hamptons, coastal, contemporary or minimal—plus any kitchen, laundry or wardrobe updates you’re planning alongside your bathroom.
2) Concept design and 3D renders
We present layouts, tile schemes and vanity designs, including Shaker profile doors or slab-fronts, and recommend compliant plumbing fixture selections (WELS-rated).
3) Documentation and compliance
We plan to Australian Standards and WA requirements (e.g., AS/NZS 3500 plumbing and drainage; AS/NZS 3740 waterproofing), and coordinate trades under best practice guidelines from bodies like HIA and Master Builders WA.
4) Manufacture and installation
Bespoke vanities and storage are built to measure—many in WA—with moisture-resistant substrates and quality finishes. We coordinate demolition, waterproofing, tiling, electrical, plumbing and fit-off.
Perth case example: Subiaco ensuite
A compact ensuite gained a level-entry shower with a tiled bench and a 1500 mm back-to-wall bath with a curved glass screen. We used a timber-look vanity, engineered stone benchtop alternative, and brushed nickel tapware. The result feels bigger, brighter and easier to clean.
Perth case example: Joondalup family bathroom
For a young family, we installed a shower-over-bath with a pivot screen, extra-tall custom cabinetry WA for towels, and a durable laminate benchtop on a moisture-resistant vanity. A separate laundry refresh matched the bathroom for a cohesive home.
Materials and finishes that last in WA
Humidity, coastal air and heat all affect finish selection. We specify products that perform in Perth’s climate and suit your budget.
Vanity benchtops: Engineered stone vs laminate (and alternatives)
| Feature | Engineered stone (and low-silica alternatives) | High-pressure laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture resistance | Excellent when edges sealed; check product and installation guidelines | Very good with quality edging and MR substrate |
| Heat/UV resistance | Good heat resistance; avoid direct high heat | Good for typical bathroom use; avoid hot tools directly on surface |
| Appearance | Stone-like look; wide colour range including terrazzo styles | Huge choice incl. timber, stone and solid colours |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance; non-porous | Low maintenance; gentle cleaners only |
| Indicative cost (vanity) | $$–$$$ | $–$$ (budget-friendly) |
Note: Australia is progressing changes around engineered stone products. Where needed we recommend compliant, low-silica or alternative solid surfaces. Ask our team for the latest WA guidance.
Cabinetry and substrates
- Moisture-resistant MDF or plywood for bathroom vanities and laundry cabinets.
- Two-pack polyurethane, premium laminates, or thermolaminated doors—Hamptons/Shaker or modern slab.
Tiles and wet area finishes
- Porcelain tiles with slip ratings suited to wet zones; large-format for fewer grout lines.
- Feature walls in kit-kat or mosaic tiles; classic subway tile splashbacks for powder rooms.
Fixtures and tapware
- WELS-rated mixers and showers; rain head plus hand shower for flexibility.
- Screen options: frameless, semi-frameless, or curved glass to soften corners in tight rooms.
Australia’s Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards scheme. Higher star ratings mean better water efficiency—a must for showers and tapware.
Designing a kitchen too? We’ll coordinate your kitchen renovations Perth with bathroom selections so finishes flow—from a shaker kitchen with a Caesarstone-style benchtop alternative to complementary vanity colours.
Layouts and styles that maximise space
Small bathroom layouts that work
- Shower-over-bath + wall-hung vanity: maximises floor area and makes cleaning easier.
- Corner bath + nib-wall shower: uses awkward corners well; keep lines simple.
- Wet room: eliminates screens and steps; ensure compliant falls and waterproofing.
Style directions
- Hamptons/coastal: Shaker doors, soft whites, brushed nickel, and pale timbers.
- Modern minimalist: Slab fronts, finger pulls, textured large-format tiles.
- Contemporary family: Durable laminates, semi-frameless screens, integrated storage.
Bathtub shower combination ideas
- Choose a taller bath backrest and flatter base for comfortable showering.
- Install a curved or L-shaped screen to reduce water escape without a heavy visual line.
- Add grab rails discreetly now for future-proofing (AS 1428.1 guidance for placement).
New bathtub ideas Australians love
- Back-to-wall freestanding baths: the look of a freestander with less cleaning behind.
- Stone composite baths: retain heat; ensure floor load capacity is suitable.
- Compact 1500–1600 mm baths: fit most WA ensuites while still soaking-friendly.
Local tip: Common Perth bath sizes range from 1500–1700 mm. Ensure door swings and shower screen openings clear these dimensions comfortably.
Costs and timelines in Perth
Every project is unique, but the following ballparks help set expectations for Perth and surrounds.
- Cosmetic refresh: $8,000–$15,000 (tapware, vanity swap, new shower screen, partial tiling).
- Mid-range renovation: $15,000–$30,000 (new waterproofing, full retile, new bath/shower, custom vanity).
- Premium renovation: $30,000–$60,000+ (wet room, underfloor heating, designer fixtures, full custom cabinetry).
Timeline: 2–6 weeks on site depending on scope, plus design, selections and manufacture lead time.
Costs vary with structure, plumbing moves, and material selections. We’ll provide a transparent, itemised proposal.
Practical planning checklist
- Measure the room, window heights, and door swings (note existing services).
- Decide: shower-over-bath, separate shower + bath, or wet room?
- Select slip-rated floor tiles and a screen style that suits your layout.
- Choose vanity storage: drawers vs doors, internal power points, mirror cabinets.
- Confirm ventilation (fan size and ducting) and lighting (task + ambient).
- Lock in tapware finish and compatible accessories early.
- Discuss compliance: waterproofing (AS/NZS 3740), drainage (AS/NZS 3500).
- Plan for matching kitchen/laundry/wardrobe finishes if renovating together.
Ready to design? Book a consult at Joyce Kitchens’ Perth showroom. We create kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes that work beautifully together.
For building standards and guidance, see the Australian Standards and NCC via the ABCB and industry bodies like HIA and Master Builders WA. WA homeowners can also review state advice on product use and safety. Helpful links:
HIA,
Master Builders WA,
ABCB.
FAQ
What is the best layout for a small bathroom with a shower and bath?
A shower-over-bath with a wall-hung vanity is the most space-efficient. Use a semi-frameless or curved screen, slip-rated floor tiles and mirrored storage to boost functionality.
Is a shower-over-bath practical for families in Perth?
Yes—great for bathing kids and saving space. Choose a back-to-wall bath with a flatter base, install a hand shower, and consider discreet grab rails for safety.
What should I know about engineered stone for bathroom vanities in WA?
Australia has evolving rules around engineered stone. We can recommend compliant low-silica or alternative solid surfaces with a similar look. Ask us for the latest WA guidance.
How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Perth?
As a guide: $8k–$15k for a cosmetic refresh, $15k–$30k mid-range, and $30k–$60k+ premium. Final costs depend on waterproofing, tiling, fixtures and custom cabinetry.
How long does a bathroom renovation take with Joyce Kitchens?
On-site works typically take 2–6 weeks depending on scope, plus time for design, approvals, product ordering and manufacturing your custom vanity and storage.