The design of your bathroom, particularly the shower, plays a crucial role in determining the resale value of your home. Outdated fixtures and designs can deter potential buyers, but making strategic upgrades can significantly enhance your property’s appeal. According to Lauren Lerner, founder and principal designer of Scottsdale-based luxury design firm Living with Lolo, one of the most impactful trends for 2026 is the curbless walk-in shower.
The Rise of Curbless Walk-In Showers
Lerner explains that the curbless walk-in shower, which features a continuous floor tile that extends from the bathroom into the shower area without interruption, is gaining popularity. This design creates a clean, architectural look that seamlessly integrates the shower into the overall bathroom space rather than isolating it as a separate unit.
While curbless showers have been around since the early 2000s, they are now becoming a default expectation in luxurious or bespoke bathroom renovations. Their appeal lies in their ability to maximize space, making them an excellent choice for small bathrooms. They eliminate the need for a large, dedicated area for the shower, allowing homeowners to make the most of limited square footage.
Why Are Curbless Showers Gaining Popularity?
According to Lerner, one of the key reasons for the surge in popularity is the universal design aspect. These showers cater to long-term accessibility needs, benefiting individuals who use wheelchairs and aging couples. Additionally, the simplicity of the design reduces the complexity of materials used, making maintenance and cleaning easier.
The absence of a traditional shower-tub combo means there is no need to deal with multiple surfaces. A glass enclosure allows for easy wiping and cleaning, reducing the effort required to maintain a hygienic space.
Tips for Installing a Curbless Shower
Lerner emphasizes the importance of treating the planning phase of a curbless shower as seriously as the selection of materials. She advises homeowners to spend time on critical elements such as drain placement and waterproofing, as these factors directly impact the functionality and longevity of the shower.
“The materials are what you see, but the technical execution underneath is what determines whether the shower works and holds up,” she says. Proper waterproofing and slope work are essential to prevent water damage and ensure that the shower functions correctly over time.
Dos and Don’ts for a Successful Installation
When transitioning from a traditional shower-tub combo to a curbless design, choosing the right shower drain is crucial. Lerner recommends investing in proper linear drain placement. The entire shower floor must slope correctly toward the drain, and improper positioning can lead to pooling water outside the shower area, causing long-term damage.
She also warns against assuming any contractor can handle the installation. “The waterproofing and slope work behind a curbless shower is more technical than a standard install. If the liner isn’t set up correctly, you will have moisture problems inside the wall and subfloor within a few years.”
Additionally, using large-format tiles or continuous stone slabs on the floor is essential. Grout lines that stop and restart at the threshold can undermine the visual effect of the design. Lerner also highlights the importance of including a niche in the shower. “An open shower without a curb has nowhere to stop a bottle from rolling out. A recessed niche is not optional,” she clarifies.
