A walk in tub and shower combination is one of the smartest and most popular choices in bathroom remodels today. It solves the biggest pain points of traditional tubs — difficult entry/exit and safety risks — while preserving the daily shower most people refuse to give up.

Key advantages driving this trend:

  • Safe, low-threshold (2–4 inches) or zero-threshold entry eliminates tripping hazards
  • Deep soaking + hydrotherapy jets provide genuine therapeutic relief for joints, back, hips and muscles
  • Integrated handheld shower + overhead rain head lets you shower standing or seated
  • Modern designs look luxurious and spa-like — frameless glass, matte black fixtures, large-format tile
  • Future-proofs the home for aging in place, recovery after surgery, or mobility changes
  • Saves space compared to separate tub + shower stall in most bathrooms
  • Increases resale value — especially appealing to 55+ buyers and families with elderly relatives

The Bathroom Remodel Ideas with Walk in Tub and Shower reflects strong homeowner interest in safe, beautiful, long-term solutions that blend accessibility with high-end style.

10 Walk-In Shower Ideas to Inspire Your Next Bathroom Reno - Bob Vila

Zero-Threshold Walk in Tub + Shower Layouts

Zero-threshold (curbless) designs are the most popular bathroom remodel ideas with walk in tub and shower in 2025–2026. The entire floor is level — no step up into the shower or tub area.

Typical layout options:

  • Side-by-side configuration — walk-in tub door opens into a large open shower zone (48–60 inches wide)
  • L-shaped or corner layout — tub sits in the corner, shower area wraps around two sides
  • Linear design — narrow bathroom with tub along one wall, wide shower space directly in front

Design essentials:

  • Continuous sloped floor (1–2% grade) toward linear floor drain
  • Large-format waterproof porcelain or luxury vinyl plank flooring
  • Frameless glass panels or sliding barn-door enclosure
  • Fold-down teak or composite bench inside tub + outside shower bench
  • Multiple vertical + horizontal grab bars in high-contrast finish for visibility

This layout maximizes open floor space, improves wheelchair accessibility, and creates a modern, spa-like feel.

Luxury Walk in Tub and Shower Combos – Spa-Inspired Features

Walk-In Shower Tub Combo: How to Choose the Right One

Many homeowners want their bathroom remodel with walk in tub and shower to feel like a personal spa retreat. Popular luxury features include:

  • Rainfall showerhead + handheld slide bar on thermostatic mixing valve
  • Chromotherapy LED lights inside tub (color-changing for mood/relaxation)
  • Aromatherapy ports or essential oil diffusers
  • Bluetooth speaker integration for music or guided meditation
  • Waterfall fill spout for soothing sound and faster fill
  • Heated seat and backrest in the tub
  • LED niche lighting in shower walls for ambient glow
  • Floating vanity with vessel sink to keep floor open
  • Heated towel warmer and radiant floor heating
  • Smart mirror with defog, built-in lighting, and Bluetooth

These elements turn a safety-focused remodel into a daily indulgence, making the bathroom one of the most-used and most-loved rooms in the home.

Accessible & ADA-Friendly Walk in Tub and Shower Designs

Accessibility is a core reason people choose bathroom remodel ideas with walk in tub and shower. True ADA-friendly features (or close equivalents) include:

  • 36–42 inch clear door opening (swing-out or sliding)
  • Zero-threshold or very low 2-inch threshold entry
  • Reinforced walls around tub/shower for future grab bar installation
  • Fold-down shower bench + built-in tub seat at correct height (17–19 inches)
  • Anti-scald thermostatic mixing valve
  • Multiple grab bars: vertical at entry, horizontal along walls, angled at shower controls
  • Lever-style faucets and handheld shower on slide bar
  • Non-slip flooring (matte porcelain, textured luxury vinyl plank)
  • Wide turning radius (60-inch minimum clear space)
  • Wall-hung toilet and floating vanity for open floor space

These features not only improve safety today — they make the home easier to adapt if mobility needs change in the future.

Small Bathroom Remodel Ideas with Walk in Tub and Shower

Even compact bathrooms (5×7 ft to 7×9 ft) can accommodate a beautiful walk in tub and shower combo with smart planning.

Effective small-space strategies:

  • 30–32 inch wide walk-in tub with outward swing door
  • Compact shower area (36×36 inches) immediately adjacent
  • Pocket door or sliding barn-style enclosure to save swing space
  • Wall-mounted folding shower bench that tucks away when not in use
  • Corner sink or narrow floating vanity
  • Wall-hung toilet to maximize floor clearance
  • Large mirror above vanity to visually expand the room
  • Vertical storage niches or recessed shelving in shower/tub surround
  • Light-colored large-format tile to reflect light
  • Recessed LED lighting + frameless glass for open feel

Many homeowners successfully remodel small primary or guest bathrooms this way, gaining both safety and modern style.

Mid-Size & Large Bathroom Remodel Ideas with Walk in Tub and Shower

Larger bathrooms (8×10 ft and up) allow more creative bathroom remodel ideas with walk in tub and shower:

  • 36–42 inch wide tub + generous 60×36 inch shower zone
  • Freestanding or drop-in style walk-in tub with frameless glass surround
  • Dual showerheads: fixed rain head + handheld on separate slide bar
  • Built-in teak bench seating inside tub and outside shower
  • Double floating vanity with vessel sinks
  • Separate makeup/linen area or dressing space
  • Heated flooring throughout + heated towel warmer
  • Smart exhaust fan with humidity sensor
  • Accent wall in textured tile or wood-look porcelain
  • Integrated sound system for music during baths/showers

These layouts turn the bathroom into a true spa retreat while keeping accessibility and safety first.

Safety & Grab Bar Placement in Walk in Tub and Shower Remodels

Safety is the #1 reason for choosing a walk in tub and shower. Proper grab bar placement is essential:

  • Vertical grab bar at entry (inside and outside door swing)
  • Horizontal grab bar along back wall of tub (42 inches long, 33–36 inches high)
  • 90-degree angled grab bar near shower controls
  • Fold-down grab bar on side wall for seated use
  • Vertical bar at shower entrance for standing transfer
  • Grab bar near toilet if space allows

Best practices:

  • Use 1.25–1.5 inch diameter stainless steel or powder-coated bars
  • Mount into reinforced blocking or solid studs (not just drywall)
  • Choose high-contrast finish (white or black) for visibility
  • Add textured anti-slip strips on tub floor and shower pan
  • Install non-slip mats or textured flooring throughout wet areas

These small details dramatically reduce fall risk without compromising aesthetics.

Lighting, Flooring & Finishing Touches for Walk in Tub and Shower Bathrooms

How to Create a Luxurious Walk-In Shower - The New York Times

Finishing touches elevate bathroom remodel ideas with walk in tub and shower:

  • Layered lighting: overhead LED, recessed niche lights, vanity sconces, under-cabinet lighting
  • Matte or satin-finish large-format porcelain tile (12×24 or 24×48 inches) for fewer grout lines
  • Textured anti-slip flooring (DCOF ≥0.42 rating) in shower/tub area
  • Frameless glass panels or semi-frameless enclosure for open feel
  • Floating vanity and wall-hung toilet to keep floor clear
  • Heated towel bar and radiant floor heating for comfort
  • Smart mirror with defog, built-in lighting, Bluetooth speaker
  • Water-resistant wallpaper or accent tile on dry walls
  • Aromatherapy diffuser or essential oil ports in tub
  • Bluetooth-enabled exhaust fan for music during baths/showers

These elements create a luxurious, spa-like environment that feels warm and inviting every day.

Final Checklist for Your Walk in Tub and Shower Remodel

Before starting your bathroom remodel with walk in tub and shower, use this checklist:

  • Measure door swing clearance and shower zone space accurately
  • Get 3–5 detailed in-home quotes from certified installers
  • Choose a reputable brand with strong local service and long warranty
  • Decide tub-only vs tub + shower combo based on daily habits
  • Plan grab bar locations and reinforcement early (before tile)
  • Select zero-threshold or very low-threshold entry if possible
  • Confirm anti-scald thermostatic valve and fast-fill faucet
  • Ask about current promotions, 0% financing, and installation timeline
  • Verify permits and inspections are included in quote
  • Consider future needs (wheelchair access, caregiver space)

A well-planned walk in tub and shower remodel delivers safety, comfort, independence, and beauty — often becoming one of the most-used and most appreciated upgrades in the entire home.