Different Types of Showers: Eastbourne Home Ideas

Upgrading your bathroom is one of the most rewarding home improvements you can undertake, enhancing your daily routine and adding significant value to your property. But with so many options available, where do you start? The shower is often the centrepiece of a modern bathroom, and understanding the different types of showers is the crucial first step towards creating your ideal space.

For homeowners in Eastbourne, where classic Victorian terraces meet contemporary new-builds, the right choice can transform a functional room into a personal sanctuary. Whether you're dealing with the unique plumbing of a period property in the Old Town or aiming for a sleek, modern look in Sovereign Harbour, your decision matters. At Harrlie Plumbing and Heating, our experience across East Sussex has shown us that the perfect shower is different for every home.

This guide will walk you through ten distinct shower styles, from space-saving corner units to luxurious walk-in wet rooms. We'll break down the benefits, potential drawbacks, installation considerations, and costs to help you make a confident and informed decision. For a truly impactful upgrade, learning how to properly plan a bathroom renovation can help you integrate your ideal shower type into a cohesive, dream space. Let’s explore the options that will work best for your home, lifestyle, and budget.

1. Electric Showers: The On-Demand Solution for Eastbourne's Busy Homes

An electric shower is a wonderfully practical choice among the different types of showers, especially for homes with high demand for hot water. Unlike mixer showers that rely on your boiler, an electric unit takes cold water directly from the mains and heats it internally using a powerful heating element. This self-contained design means you always have access to a hot shower, even if your boiler is on the blink or someone else is using all the hot water for a bath.

For families in Eastbourne, this on-demand functionality can be a morning game-changer, eliminating queues for the bathroom. We often find that in households in areas like Hampden Park, where multiple people are getting ready at once, an electric shower prevents family arguments over hot water! It’s also a highly energy-efficient option because it only heats the water you use, preventing the energy waste associated with storing hot water in a cylinder.

Best For:

Electric showers are an ideal solution for homes with a conventional boiler and hot water tank, or for households where the boiler struggles to keep up with demand. We at Harrlie Plumbing and Heating often install them in older Eastbourne properties, such as those in the Meads or Old Town, where they can also help boost poor water pressure with an integrated pump model. They are also a great, cost-effective addition to a second bathroom or guest annexe.

Key Considerations:

• Kilowatt (kW) Rating: The power of the heating element, measured in kW, dictates the flow rate. A higher kW rating (e.g., 9.5kW or 10.5kW) provides a more powerful spray, which is particularly beneficial in winter when the incoming mains water is colder.

• Electrical Requirements: A qualified electrician must install the unit, as it requires its own dedicated, high-amperage circuit from your consumer unit.

• Style and Features: Modern designs are sleek and minimalist, with options like digital temperature displays, phased shutdown to reduce limescale build-up (a common issue with Eastbourne's hard water), and multiple spray patterns.

2. Rain Shower Heads: Bringing Spa-Like Luxury to Your Home

A rain shower head is designed to deliver a truly indulgent and immersive experience, making it a popular choice among the different types of showers for those looking to create a personal sanctuary. Unlike standard shower heads, these are large, flat, and mounted directly overhead, allowing water to fall gently over your entire body, much like a warm summer downpour. This wide, gentle dispersal of water provides a luxurious, spa-like sensation that turns a daily routine into a moment of tranquil relaxation.

This style is perfect for modern bathroom renovations, especially in Eastbourne homes aiming for a high-end, contemporary aesthetic. The overhead design creates a clean, minimalist look, freeing up wall space and contributing to a sense of openness. It transforms the shower from a purely functional fixture into a stunning centrepiece.

Best For:

Rain shower heads are ideal for main bathrooms, en-suites, and wet rooms where relaxation is the primary goal. We at Harrlie Plumbing and Heating often incorporate them into bespoke bathroom renovations in areas like the Sovereign Harbour, where clients desire a touch of hotel-inspired luxury. They are also a fantastic upgrade for anyone looking to increase their home's 'wow' factor and potential resale value, offering a premium feature that buyers appreciate.

Key Considerations:

• Ceiling Height and Support: The unit is typically ceiling-mounted, so you must ensure your ceiling is high enough and that there is adequate structural support in the joists to hold its weight safely.

• Water Pressure: To function effectively, rain shower heads require good water pressure. In some older Eastbourne properties, a booster pump may be necessary to achieve the desired drenching effect. The team at Harrlie Plumbing and Heating can assess your system and recommend the best solution.

• Practicality: For tasks like rinsing the shower enclosure or washing pets, a rain head can be impractical. We often recommend pairing it with a separate, more functional handheld shower wand for maximum versatility.

3. Walk-In Wet Room: The Ultimate in Luxury and Accessibility

A walk-in wet room represents the peak of contemporary bathroom design, creating a seamless, open-plan showering space. Unlike other different types of showers which are contained within an enclosure, a wet room involves waterproofing the entire room. The floor is carefully sloped, or ‘tanked’, to direct water towards a single drain, eliminating the need for a traditional shower tray and creating a stunning, minimalist aesthetic.

This European-inspired design is increasingly popular in Eastbourne, particularly in modern developments along the Sovereign Harbour or in refurbished properties seeking a high-end, spa-like feel. It not only maximises the sense of space but also offers unparalleled accessibility, making it an ideal long-term solution for any household.

Best For:

Wet rooms are perfect for those wanting to create a luxury, designer bathroom and for individuals requiring a level-access shower for mobility reasons. At Harrlie Plumbing and Heating, we find them to be an excellent choice for smaller bathrooms, as removing the enclosure visually enlarges the room. For a deeper look, you can explore our 10 wet room design ideas for Eastbourne homes in 2025.

Key Considerations:

• Professional Installation: Tanking (waterproofing) is a highly skilled job that must be done perfectly to prevent leaks. It is crucial to hire experienced professionals like Harrlie Plumbing and Heating, as mistakes can be catastrophic.

• Ventilation: An open, steamy environment requires a powerful extractor fan (at least 80 CFM) to prevent damp and mould issues, which is essential for maintaining Eastbourne's coastal properties.

• Flooring and Drainage: The floor must have a precise gradient (at least 1:80) to ensure effective drainage. Using non-slip tiles is a safety-critical choice, and installing underfloor heating will help water evaporate quickly while adding a touch of comfort.

4. Corner Shower Enclosures: Maximising Space in Eastbourne Bathrooms

A corner shower enclosure is an incredibly space-efficient solution among the different types of showers, designed to fit neatly into the corner of a room. Utilising two existing bathroom walls, this installation is completed with glass panels and a door, creating a dedicated showering space without dominating the floor plan. This smart design is a cornerstone of modern bathroom planning, especially where every square centimetre counts.

For the many compact bathrooms found in Eastbourne's flats and smaller terraced houses, particularly in areas like Seaside or Roselands, a corner enclosure can transform a cramped space into a functional and stylish washroom. It frees up valuable floor area, making the room feel larger and allowing for better placement of other fixtures like toilets and basins.

Best For:

Corner enclosures are the go-to choice for small bathrooms, en-suites, and guest bathrooms where a full-sized bath is impractical. We at Harrlie Plumbing and Heating frequently install these in attic conversions and new-build flats across Eastbourne, where maximising layout efficiency is a primary goal. They are also a popular and cost-effective upgrade for rental properties, adding modern appeal and practicality for tenants.

Key Considerations:

• Door Type: The choice of door is crucial. Sliding or bi-fold doors are ideal as they don't swing outwards, saving precious floor space. A pivot or hinged door requires clear space in front of the shower to open fully.

• Tray Shape: A quadrant (curved front) or neo-angle (cut-off corner) shower tray can offer more elbow room inside the shower while softening the enclosure's footprint in the bathroom itself.

• Glass and Frame: Opting for a frameless or semi-frameless glass design creates a more open, airy feel, preventing the small room from feeling boxed in. Clear glass is better for this illusion of space than frosted or patterned alternatives.

5. Overhead Rain Shower with Body Jets: The Ultimate Spa Experience for Eastbourne Homes

For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury among the different types of showers, an overhead rain shower combined with body jets delivers an immersive, full-body hydrotherapy experience. This system pairs a large, ceiling-mounted or wall-extended "rain" showerhead with multiple, strategically placed body jets. The result is a drenching, spa-like sensation that envelops you in water from above and all sides, transforming a daily routine into a rejuvenating ritual.

These systems are the centrepiece of high-end bathroom renovations, particularly popular in modern apartments in Eastbourne's Sovereign Harbour or in larger homes undergoing a complete spa-style conversion. When designing a wet room for the ultimate open-plan luxury, many homeowners also consider complementary wellness features; understanding dry vs. wet sauna options can inform choices for a complete home spa experience.

Best For:

This setup is ideal for homeowners creating a master ensuite that prioritises relaxation and wellness. We at Harrlie Plumbing and Heating have installed these luxurious systems in extensive renovation projects across Eastbourne, from modern new-builds to classic properties being updated with a contemporary, high-end feel. They are perfect for walk-in showers and wet rooms where space is not a constraint and the goal is to replicate a five-star hotel or spa experience.

Key Considerations:

• Water Pressure: A high-pressure system, preferably an unvented cylinder, is essential to power the multiple outlets simultaneously. A standard gravity-fed system will not be sufficient without a powerful pump. The Harrlie Plumbing and Heating team can assess your home’s water system to ensure it can handle the demand.

• Plumbing Complexity: Installation requires extensive pipework behind the walls and often separate thermostatic valves to control the temperature and flow to the showerhead and jets independently. This is a job strictly for experienced professionals.

• Water Consumption: Due to the high flow rate from multiple outlets, these systems use significantly more water. Considering low-flow jets can help manage consumption while maintaining a luxurious feel.

6. Doorless/Open-Concept Showers: The Ultimate in Contemporary Eastbourne Style

The doorless, or open-concept shower, represents a bold step forward in modern bathroom design, removing physical barriers to create a seamless, flowing space. This style eliminates the traditional shower enclosure, often using a single glass panel, a half-wall, or just clever layout to contain water. The result is a highly accessible, minimalist aesthetic that makes the entire bathroom feel larger and more spa-like.

For those undertaking ambitious renovations in Eastbourne, particularly in modern developments around the Sovereign Harbour or in converted open-plan flats, this is one of the most visually impactful different types of showers available. It transforms the functional act of showering into a luxurious, integrated experience, promoting an atmosphere of light and openness that is hard to achieve with a standard cubicle.

Best For:

A doorless shower is perfect for creating a high-end, contemporary "wet room" feel without committing to tanking the entire room. It’s an exceptional choice for spacious master ensuites and is particularly well-suited for individuals with mobility challenges, as the lack of a threshold allows for effortless entry. We at Harrlie Plumbing and Heating often recommend this design for clients wanting a future-proof bathroom that combines sophisticated style with practical accessibility.

Key Considerations:

• Water Containment: Expert planning is crucial. The floor must have a subtle, professionally calculated slope towards a high-capacity drain, often a sleek linear drain installed at the shower's perimeter, to prevent water from escaping into the rest of the room.

• Waterproofing and Ventilation: Extensive waterproofing (tanking) is required on the shower area walls and floor. A powerful ventilation system is also essential to manage the increased steam and moisture in the open space, protecting your walls and fixtures.

• Space and Layout: This style works best in larger bathrooms. A powerful, well-positioned shower head and strategic placement of a glass splash panel are key to containing spray and ensuring the rest of your bathroom stays dry and comfortable.

7. Tiled Shower Stalls: Classic Customisation and Timeless Appeal

A tiled shower stall is a classic and highly customisable choice among the different types of showers, constructed with tile-lined walls and a floor built with a slight slope for drainage. This traditional method involves building a waterproof enclosure, typically with a raised curb or threshold, and then meticulously laying tiles to create a durable, water-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing finish. This approach offers unparalleled design freedom.

The beauty of a tiled stall lies in its versatility. From the classic Victorian-style bathrooms we often see in Eastbourne’s Old Town to sleek, modern designs in newly built Sovereign Harbour homes, the choice of tile dictates the entire look and feel. The options for colours, patterns, sizes, and materials are virtually limitless, allowing you to create a truly bespoke shower space that perfectly matches your home's character.

Best For:

Tiled shower stalls are perfect for homeowners who prioritise customisation and want a shower that integrates seamlessly with their overall bathroom design. They are an excellent choice for bathroom renovations of any scale, from compact en-suites to large family bathrooms. We at Harrlie Plumbing and Heating find them particularly suitable for creating durable, long-lasting installations that can withstand the rigours of daily family use and add significant value to a property.

Key Considerations:

• Waterproofing: The most critical step is installing a robust waterproof membrane system behind the tiles. Without proper tanking, water can seep through, causing significant structural damage over time.

• Grout Maintenance: Grout lines require regular cleaning and periodic sealing to prevent mould, mildew, and staining. Using a high-quality epoxy grout can significantly reduce this maintenance burden compared to traditional cement-based grout, which is something we always recommend for our Eastbourne clients.

• Tile Selection: The choice of tile impacts both aesthetics and practicality. Large-format tiles create fewer grout lines, making cleaning easier. For practical advice, discover how to choose the right bathroom tiles on our blog.

8. Prefabricated Shower Units: The Fast and Functional Choice

Among the different types of showers, prefabricated units, often called shower pods or fibreglass enclosures, offer a highly practical and budget-friendly solution. These are all-in-one systems, manufactured off-site from materials like acrylic or fibreglass, that include the shower tray, walls, and sometimes even the door. The entire unit is then installed directly into the bathroom space, creating a seamless, waterproof enclosure with minimal fuss and mess.

For property developers and landlords across Eastbourne, particularly for new builds or apartment complexes in areas like Sovereign Harbour, this efficiency is a major benefit. It dramatically speeds up the installation process compared to traditional tiling, ensuring a consistent, reliable finish every time. This approach minimises labour costs and project timelines, making it a very attractive option for large-scale renovations or budget-conscious projects.

Best For:

Prefabricated shower units are perfect for rental properties, student accommodation, and commercial settings like budget hotels where durability and ease of maintenance are paramount. We at Harrlie Plumbing and Heating also find them to be an excellent choice for adding an ensuite to a loft conversion or installing a secondary shower in a utility room, where a fast, leak-proof solution is needed. They are also common in mobile homes and static caravans found along the Sussex coast.

Key Considerations:

• Material Choice: Acrylic units are generally more durable and resistant to scratches and stains than their fibreglass counterparts, offering a longer lifespan.

• Installation & Support: The unit must be perfectly level and have adequate structural support beneath the tray to prevent flexing and cracking over time. A professional installation from a trusted local company like Harrlie Plumbing and Heating is crucial.

• Ventilation and Sealing: Proper ventilation in the bathroom is essential to prevent mould growth. The perimeter of the unit must be sealed with high-quality silicone to ensure a watertight finish.

• Cleaning: Use gentle, non-abrasive cleaning products to avoid damaging the surface finish of the acrylic or fibreglass.

9. Niche/Alcove Shower: The Space-Smart, Custom-Built Retreat

A niche or alcove shower is a superb example of integrating a showering space seamlessly into your bathroom’s architecture. This design is built into a recess, enclosed by three walls, creating a distinct and dedicated showering zone. This approach is not just about saving space; it's about creating a bespoke, high-end feature that feels both private and luxurious, transforming a simple necessity into a design statement.

Among the different types of showers, this one offers unparalleled opportunities for customisation. In Eastbourne, we often see alcove showers incorporated into loft conversions in the Upperton area or during master bathroom renovations in Sovereign Harbour homes. It allows for a walk-in feel without requiring the full floor space of a wet room, making it an incredibly smart and stylish solution.

Best For:

Niche showers are perfect for bathrooms where you can utilise an existing recess or build out a stud wall to create one. They are a brilliant choice for master ensuites, minimalist bathroom designs, and anyone wanting a spa-like feel. We at Harrlie Plumbing and Heating find them particularly effective in layouts where a standard shower enclosure might feel awkward or bulky, as they make the room feel more cohesive and intentionally designed.

Key Considerations:

• Waterproofing: This is the most critical step. The three enclosing walls and the floor must be professionally tanked (waterproofed) to prevent any water from penetrating the structure.

• Drainage: The floor must have a correct and sufficient slope (gradient) towards the drain to ensure water runs off effectively. A sleek linear drain installed at the entrance is a popular and modern choice.

• Fixtures and Storage: Consider built-in shelving within the stud walls for a clean, clutter-free look. You can also choose between a minimalist glass screen or a more traditional door to complete the enclosure.

10. Hand-Held/Adjustable Showers: The Ultimate in Flexibility and Accessibility

A hand-held showerhead, typically mounted on an adjustable slider rail, is one of the most versatile and user-friendly options among the different types of showers. This design allows users to easily change the height and direction of the water spray, detaching the head completely for targeted rinsing. It offers unparalleled convenience, whether used as the primary shower or as a practical companion to a fixed overhead rain shower.

This flexibility makes it an incredibly popular choice for family bathrooms across Eastbourne. Parents find it invaluable for bathing young children and even pets, while it also provides a more comfortable experience for users of varying heights. The ability to direct the water precisely also simplifies the task of cleaning the shower enclosure itself.

Best For:

Hand-held and adjustable showers are the gold standard for accessible bathrooms, providing safety and independence for the elderly or those with mobility challenges. We at Harrlie Plumbing and Heating frequently install these systems in modern family homes in areas like Sovereign Harbour for their sheer practicality. They are also an excellent choice for multi-generational households, ensuring everyone can shower comfortably and safely.

Key Considerations:

• Slider Rail Height: The rail should be installed to accommodate all users. A typical height range is between 120cm and 180cm (48-72 inches) from the shower tray floor, but this can be customised.

• Hose Quality: Opt for a high-quality, long-lasting hose, preferably made from stainless steel with an anti-kink or anti-tangle design to prevent frustrating knots and premature wear.

• Spray Patterns: Modern showerheads offer multiple spray patterns, from a gentle mist to a powerful massage jet. Choosing a multi-function head enhances the showering experience for every member of the household.

Quick Comparison of 10 Shower Types

Option	Implementation 🔄 (Complexity)	Resources ⚡ (Cost & Water)	Expected Outcomes 📊 (Performance & Comfort)	Ideal Use Cases 💡	Key Advantages ⭐
Walk-In Shower	Moderate–High — needs floor slope & waterproofing	High (flooring, linear drain, possible glass)	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Accessible, spacious look; effective if drained correctly	Accessibility-focused homes, modern bathrooms, luxury units	Excellent accessibility; low door maintenance; minimalist aesthetic
Rain Shower Head	Low–Moderate — plumbing/ceiling mount considerations	Moderate–High water use; may need pressure upgrade	⭐⭐⭐ Spa-like, gentle wide coverage; relaxing experience	Spa renovations, upscale homes, hotel bathrooms	Even coverage; luxurious feel; calming flow
Walk-In Wet Room	Very High — full-room waterproofing & precise slope	Very High (membranes, ventilation, heating)	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Seamless, highly accessible, high visual impact	Scandinavian/modern homes, accessible facilities, luxury spas	Maximum accessibility; easy whole-room cleaning; dramatic aesthetic
Corner Shower Enclosure	Low — standard prefab or simple custom fit	Low–Moderate cost; efficient water containment	⭐⭐⭐ Space-efficient and effective containment; limited space inside	Small apartments, starter homes, budget hotels	Space-saving; cost-effective; straightforward retrofit
Overhead Rain Shower with Body Jets	Very High — complex zoning & plumbing	Very High cost & water demand; may need boosters	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Full-body hydrotherapy; highly customizable spa experience	Five-star hotels, luxury homes, wellness centers	Therapeutic massage options; premium, customizable experience
Doorless/Open-Concept Shower	High — careful grading and waterproofing required	High (extended waterproofing, ventilation, heating)	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Expansive, modern appearance; higher splash risk	Minimalist residences, upscale suites, spa environments	Visual continuity; easy access; modern sophistication
Tiled Shower Stall	Moderate — skilled tiling and waterproof prep	Moderate cost; ongoing grout maintenance	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Durable and customizable; excellent water containment	Traditional homes, bespoke renovations, classic designs	Highly customizable; long-term durability; timeless appeal
Prefabricated Shower Unit / Fiberglass Pod	Low — quick plug-and-play installation	Low cost; factory-sealed (low maintenance)	⭐⭐⭐ Affordable, fast install; less customizable and lower longevity	Rentals, mobile homes, budget builds, quick retrofits	Fast install; cost-effective; low immediate maintenance
Niche / Alcove Shower	Moderate — framing and waterproofing required	Moderate–High (custom finishes, drain)	⭐⭐⭐ Space-efficient integrated solution; requires proper slope	Master baths, tailored renovations, contemporary homes	Custom sizing; saves floor space; integrated storage options
Hand-Held / Adjustable Shower	Low — simple retrofit or new-install	Low cost; modest water use	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Highly versatile and accessible; excellent for targeted use	Family bathrooms, care facilities, pet washing, RVs	Flexible use; great accessibility; easy cleaning and rinsing

Ready to Transform Your Bathroom? Let's Get Started.

The journey to finding the perfect shower begins with understanding your unique needs, your home's technical specifications, and your personal style. We have navigated through the sleek, accessible design of a walk-in shower, the luxurious experience of an overhead rain shower with body jets, and the practical efficiency of a prefabricated unit. Each of these different types of showers offers a distinct blend of form and function, capable of transforming your daily routine from a simple necessity into a moment of rejuvenation.

Choosing the right option is more than just an aesthetic decision; it's a practical one that impacts your home's value, functionality, and even your utility bills. A digital shower provides unparalleled control over temperature and flow, while a classic mixer shower offers reliable performance that balances your hot and cold water supplies. For a period property in the Meads area of Eastbourne, a traditionally styled tiled shower stall can preserve character, whereas a modern wet room might be the perfect solution for a contemporary apartment near the Sovereign Harbour.

Key Takeaways for Your Project

Before moving forward, let's crystallise the most important considerations from our exploration:

• Assess Your Water System: The first crucial step is identifying whether you have a gravity-fed, combi boiler, or unvented system. This will heavily influence which shower types are compatible and whether you might need a pump to achieve the desired water pressure.

• Balance Aspiration with Practicality: While an open-concept, doorless shower is a stunning centrepiece, it requires significant space and expert waterproofing. A stylish corner enclosure can often deliver a similar high-end feel in a more compact bathroom, a common feature in many Eastbourne homes.

• Think Long-Term: Consider accessibility and future needs. A walk-in shower with a low-profile tray is not only modern but also a practical choice for all ages, ensuring your bathroom remains functional and safe for years to come.

Your Actionable Next Steps

Feeling inspired? The next step is to translate your ideas into a concrete plan. Start by measuring your bathroom space precisely, noting the location of existing plumbing and windows. Create a list of your "must-have" features versus your "nice-to-have" additions. For instance, is a hand-held shower head for easy cleaning a non-negotiable, or is the spa-like experience of body jets your top priority?

Ultimately, navigating the complexities of plumbing systems, waterproofing, and installation is a job for professionals. A poorly installed shower can lead to leaks, water damage, and costly repairs down the line. Seeking expert guidance from the outset ensures your investment is protected and the final result is flawless. Here at Harrlie Plumbing and Heating, we have extensive experience fitting all different types of showers across Eastbourne and the surrounding areas, from simple replacements to complete bathroom renovations.

---

Ready to take the next step towards your dream bathroom? Let our team of certified professionals guide you through the process, ensuring a seamless installation and a stunning result. Contact Harrlie Plumbing and Heating today for a no-obligation consultation and discover how we can bring your vision to life. Harrlie Plumbing and Heating