Shower Enclosure & Tray Buying Guide: The Perfect Fit for Your Bathroom

When planning a bathroom improvement, few upgrades can transform the space as much as a new shower enclosure and shower tray. Whether you’re designing a compact shower cubicle for a small en-suite, opting for a spacious walk-in shower, or creating a stylish feature in a family bathroom, the right enclosure and tray will combine practicality with stunning design.

This guide walks you through the key considerations, shapes, shower doors, and tray styles so you can find the perfect match for your bathroom.

Where Will the Shower Enclosure Go?

The first step in planning your shower is deciding where to position it. The size, shape, and type of shower enclosure will depend on your available space and layout:

• One wall – Ideal for larger bathrooms where the shower can be a focal point. You’ll need two side panels plus a front door panel.

• Two walls – The most common choice, fitting neatly into a corner. Requires one side panel and one door panel.

• Three walls – Often used in en-suites or alcoves, needing only a front door panel.

Tip: Use masking tape to mark out the enclosure on the floor. This helps you visualize how it will fit alongside other fixtures such as the toilet, basin, or storage units.

Shower Enclosure Shapes

The shape you choose will determine both style and functionality. Here are the most popular options:

Square Shower Enclosures

Compact and versatile, square shower enclosures maximize corner space and are suitable for most bathroom sizes. They also provide flexibility when choosing shower doors and finishes.

Rectangular Shower Enclosures

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, rectangular enclosures offer extra room to move, making them a popular choice for larger bathrooms. As more homeowners replace traditional baths, rectangular enclosures are often chosen to achieve that spacious, spa-like walk-in shower feel.

Quadrant Shower Enclosures

Perfect for smaller bathrooms, quadrant enclosures fit snugly into a corner and feature a curved front. Their sleek design provides a generous showering area while saving space.

For bigger bathrooms, offset quadrants offer additional space by using a longer section of one wall, creating a balance between style and practicality.

Choosing the Right Shower Doors

Once you’ve selected the shape of your enclosure, it’s time to decide on shower doors. The right door not only impacts how your shower looks but also how it functions in the available space.

• Pivot Doors – Open outward on hinges, like a standard door. Full pivot doors are ideal for larger bathrooms, while half pivot doors are great for tighter spaces.

• Bi-fold Doors – Space-saving designs that fold inward, making them perfect for compact bathrooms where outward clearance is limited.

• Sliding Doors – Practical and stylish, sliding doors work especially well with quadrant and rectangular enclosures. Two-panel options are great for larger spaces, while three-panel versions suit smaller enclosures.

When selecting your door, be sure to choose between left- and right-handed options depending on your bathroom layout.

Walk-In Shower Enclosures

If you’re looking to add a touch of luxury, a walk-in shower is an excellent choice. These are perfect for modern bathrooms and wet rooms, offering an open, minimalist look.

You can select from:

• Single screen walk-in showers – A fixed glass screen for an ultra-open design.

• Dual screen walk-ins – A more enclosed feel while still maintaining accessibility.

• L-shaped or curved walk-ins – Stylish variations to match your chosen layout.

• Screens with pivoting panels – Adjustable panels help prevent splashes while providing easy access.

Walk-in showers are ideal for accessibility, family bathrooms, and those who want a sleek, hotel-inspired design.

Shower Trays

Your enclosure isn’t complete without the right shower tray. Trays not only collect and direct water to the drain but also set the tone for your bathroom’s style.

• High-walled trays – Traditional in style, offering durability and a defined shower space.

• Low-profile trays – A modern, streamlined look that makes access easier.

• Ultra-low trays – Perfect for a flush finish, blending seamlessly with your flooring, especially in wet rooms and walk-in showers.

Always match the tray to your chosen enclosure shape and size (square, rectangular, or quadrant) and check whether you need a left- or right-handed fit.

Wet Rooms

For the ultimate contemporary bathroom improvement, consider a wet room. Instead of a separate tray, the entire floor is designed to drain water effectively.

There are two main installation methods:

• Level access – Waste fitted between joists, leaving the floor completely flat (ideal for wooden floors).

• Raised wet zone – Creates a raised platform to house the waste system, suitable for concrete floors.

Wet rooms pair beautifully with walk-in showers for a clean, open-plan feel.

Finishing Touches: Tiles & Panels

To complete your shower space, wall coverings are essential for both protection and design:

• Tiles – A timeless option, available in countless sizes, colours, and finishes. They allow you to create anything from classic white subway walls to bold patterned features.

• Bathroom wall panels – A modern alternative to tiles. Easy to install and maintain, they come in marble effects, bold colours, or even sparkly finishes for a touch of glamour.

Both options work perfectly with traditional shower enclosures, walk-in showers, and wet rooms.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re upgrading a small en-suite or planning a complete bathroom improvement, the right shower enclosure, shower doors, and shower trays can make all the difference. From space-saving quadrant designs to luxurious walk-in showers, there’s a solution for every style, space, and budget.

With careful planning and the right choices, your new shower can bring both practicality and style – turning everyday routines into moments of relaxation and comfort.