Outdoor Shower Ideas For Your Backyard

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Outdoor showers have become a popular addition to Australian homes, offering a blend of convenience and luxury. The Australian climate, with its warm temperatures and sunny days, makes outdoor showers a practical and enjoyable year round feature for any backyard.

Not only do they provide a refreshing way to rinse off after a swim or a hot day at the beach house, but an outdoor shower also adds a unique element to your backyard. A true focal point for any Australian house.

In this article, we will explore various outdoor shower ideas that can transform your backyard into a personal oasis, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Choosing the Right Location

Determining the ideal location for your outdoor shower zone is crucial for both functionality and aesthetics.

  • Privacy is a top priority; choose a spot that is shielded from neighbours’ views, perhaps a quiet corner near tall plants or a garden wall.
  • Install your shower close to the home or swimming pool area. This makes it more convenient for plumbing connections. It also allows for easier integration with existing outdoor spaces like the patio or an enclosed deck.
  • Drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging and maintain the garden’s health. Choose an outdoor space with proper drainage or install a simple system to direct water away from the shower area.

Integrating the shower with the garden’s natural slope or installing a permeable floor can help manage water effectively. After all, the only hot water you want to find yourself in is that which is coming from above, not pooling beneath you!

Types of Outdoor Showers

Choosing the right outdoor shower means choosing from a variety of different types.

Standalone Showers

Standalone showers offer flexibility in placement, allowing you to position them anywhere in your garden. These free-standing units can be designed to fit into various landscape styles, making them a versatile choice. One of the key benefits is their ability to stand alone without the need for existing structures, giving you the complete freedom to create a unique shower area.

Materials for standalone showers should be weather-resistant to endure the outdoor elements. Ideal options can include:

  • treated wood
  • stainless steel, and
  • durable plastics

Design choices range from canopy showers that provide a natural feel to rain showerheads that offer a luxurious experience. Vintage styles with rustic fixtures can add a charming touch to your garden.

Wall-Mounted Showers

Wall-mounted showers are attached to an exterior wall of your house or pool house, providing a space-saving solution that integrates seamlessly with existing structures. These showers are easier to connect to your home’s plumbing system, reducing installation complexity and costs. They are perfect for compact spaces where a standalone unit might not fit.

For wall-mounted showers, materials like stone or tile for the backsplash can enhance the visual appeal and provide durability. Built-in shelves or hooks for towels and toiletries add practicality. Modern fixtures, such as sleek stainless steel or chrome, can complement contemporary homes, while more traditional designs can suit classic architecture.

Mixed Designs

Combining elements from both standalone and wall-mounted showers can create a hybrid design that offers the best of both worlds. For instance, you can have a wall-mounted shower with a freestanding outdoor shower enclosure that adds privacy and style. This approach allows for greater creativity in design and functionality, catering to specific needs and preferences.

Whether you opt for a standalone, wall-mounted, or mixed design, the key is to choose materials and styles that enhance your backyard’s aesthetic while providing a functional and enjoyable outdoor showering experience.

Male using an outdoor shower in his backyard.

Design Inspirations

From classic country style to contemporary cool, outdoor shower ideas can take many forms. Here are some potential outdoor shower design ideas to consider.

Natural and Rustic Designs

A natural and rustic outdoor shower creates a serene, earthy atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the landscaping of the garden. Using materials like stone, wood, and bamboo, these designs evoke a sense of being immersed in nature. A shower surrounded by lush greenery and natural elements can provide a truly relaxing experience.

Incorporate design elements such as natural stone pavers for flooring, which offers a natural, non-slip surface. Wooden slats or a bamboo privacy screen can serve as walls, adding privacy while maintaining an open, fresh air feel. A stone bench or a wooden stool can provide a place to sit and enjoy the surrounding landscape. Examples include a rainfall showerhead that mimics waterfalls or those nestled within a garden alcove, creating a peaceful retreat.

Modern and Minimalistic Designs

A modern and minimalist outdoor shower emphasises clean lines and sleek materials like stainless steel, concrete, and glass. The design focuses on simplicity and functionality, featuring geometric shapes and minimal décor. Monochrome colour schemes, such as all-white or grey tones, enhance the minimalist aesthetic. Simple fixtures, like a single rain showerhead or a streamlined hand shower, add to the sleek look. Glass partitions provide openness and privacy, while built-in benches or minimalist shelves add practicality. Examples include modern garden showers with stainless steel fixtures and a stone wall, creating a chic, urban oasis.

By choosing a design that reflects your style and complements your garden, you can create an outdoor shower space that is both functional and beautiful.

Practical Considerations

Ensuring your outdoor shower is comfortable, well-maintained, and safe is crucial for an enjoyable experience. As important as it is to choose the right style outdoor shower from an aesthetic perspective, it’s equally as important to keep these practical considerations in mind.

  • Install a hot water line connected to your home’s gas or electric-powered hot water system, or use solar heaters for an eco-friendly solution.
  • Use mixing valves to provide precise temperature control, ensuring a pleasant showering experience regardless of the season.
  • Choose weather-resistant materials to withstand the elements and reduce wear and tear.
  • Regularly clean the showerhead and fixtures to prevent mineral build-up and ensure optimal water flow.
  • Use protective covers during off-seasons to extend the lifespan of your shower.
  • Use non-slip materials for flooring to prevent accidents, especially in wet conditions.
  • Ensure adequate lighting for evening use, providing visibility and preventing trips or falls.
  • Securely fix all fixtures and fittings to avoid any potential hazards.

By following these guidelines, you can create a comfortable, well-maintained, and safe outdoor showering experience.

Choose The Best Outdoor Shower For Your Backyard

An outdoor shower offers a unique blend of luxury and practicality, perfectly suited to the Australian lifestyle. From selecting the right location to choosing between standalone and wall-mounted designs, there are numerous options to fit any backyard.

Whether you prefer natural and rustic aesthetics or sleek, modern designs, incorporating an outdoor shower with the right accessories can transform your garden into a personal oasis. As you consider outdoor shower ideas, think about practical aspects such as water temperature, maintenance, and safety. Embrace the versatility and charm of outdoor showers and elevate your outdoor living space.

Please note: Thank you for reading our blog “Outdoor Shower Ideas For Your Backyard”. This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.

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