Shower Niche or Shelf?
Planning a bathroom renovation or new build in Auckland? Among the many choices you’ll make (tapware, tiles, vanity, grout colour — we see you), one detail that has both form and function is your shower storage. Specifically: shower niche or shower shelf?
At Torque Plumbing and Gas, we work on high-end bathrooms and practical family renos across Auckland, the North Shore, Hibiscus Coast and North of Auckland. And we’ve installed every storage combo under the sun. So here’s the lowdown to help you pick what’s right for your space — without getting stuck in the suds.
Niche vs Shelf — What's the Difference?
Shower Niche
A niche is a recessed shelf built into your wall cavity — a sleek, space-saving option that’s integrated and out of the way. Great for smaller showers or a streamlined designer look. This can possibly run the whole length of the wall or within a certain space.
Shower Shelf (Ledge)
A shower shelf, also known as a nib wall or ledge, is a half-height wall built inside your shower. It projects slightly into the space but offers loads of room for taller products and visual contrast — think feature tiles and Instagrammable styling.
Tile Finishes: Mitre or Trim?
Let’s talk edges — because we are all about the details.
Tile Trim (Practical + Budget-Friendly)
Tile trim is a popular choice for capping off niche or shelf edges. It’s available in brushed brass, matte black, or neutral tones to either pop or blend with your tiles. Clean, modern, and won’t break the bank.
Mitred Tiles (That Seamless Look)
Mitred edges involve cutting tiles on a 45° angle so they meet perfectly without trim. This creates a designer look, especially for high-end tile finishes. It requires a skilled tiler (and a bit more budget), but the result is chef’s kiss.
Torque Tip: If you’re after that crisp mitred finish, confirm early — not all tilers offer it, and not all tiles are suitable for mitring. (Lucky for you, we know a really good tiler who we can recommend!)
Placement Tips That Make All the Difference
The perfect niche or shelf isn’t just about looks — it’s about usability.
Ideal placement: Between 900mm–1300mm from the floor is most comfortable for reaching shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Before finalising your dimensions, measure the height of your largest products — and allow a little wiggle room.
And here’s where Torque shines:
We don’t just rough in the plumbing and walk away — we specialise in tile set-out and niche positioning. That means we carefully measure and plan your niche or ledge to align perfectly with grout lines and tile layouts — no awkward cuts, no offset lines, no “she’ll be right” attitudes. We work closely with your tiler (and tell them what’s what, if needed!) to ensure a flawless finish that looks custom-designed — because it is.
Torque Tip: Never leave niche placement to chance. A few extra minutes planning with us means years of loving how it looks.
Waterproofing: The Real MVP
Whether you choose a niche or a ledge, waterproofing is not optional — it’s essential.
Niches, with their internal corners and recesses, need careful attention to prevent future leaks. Shelves are generally easier to waterproof due to their simpler shape and solid backing.
Torque Tip: We only use certified waterproofers and always build to New Zealand Building Code — because beautiful bathrooms should be built to last, not leak.
Final Thoughts: Which One’s Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all. Choose what suits your layout, aesthetic, and how you actually use your bathroom.
Go for a niche if: you want a sleek, built-in look into the existing shower space
Go for a shelf if: you love tall products, want design impact, or have the space that the shelf will require
And remember — when you’re working with Torque, pipework isn’t a problem. We can easily move plumbing during a renovation to accommodate your dream niche or ledge, no probs.
Ready to Talk Bathroom Storage, Tiles & Plumbing?
At Torque Plumbing and Gas, we combine sharp workmanship with honest advice and clever design solutions. Whether you’re building from scratch or updating your forever home, we’ll help you create a bathroom that works hard — and looks bloody good doing it.
Get in touch today for expert plumbing services in Auckland, North Shore, Hibiscus Coast and North of Auckland areas.
