How do you plan bathroom tiles around a shower niche?

Explanation

Draw each wall from the front

Write down the wall widths and heights. Add the niche, doors, windows and fittings. Measure their positions from an easy-to-find corner.

Use the dimensions after the preparation work, not those of a wall that still needs an extra layer. Mark a horizontal reference line at the same level on the different walls. It will help keep the grout joints aligned at the corners.

Check the cuts around the niche

Try placing a grout line along an edge of the niche. Then check the rows above, below and on the other walls. A neat line around the niche should not make you overlook a thin strip near the ceiling.

Check the pieces inside the recess too. If the niche has not been built yet, discuss its size with the installer. If it already exists, fit the drawing to its measurements.

Count the inside as well

The opening removes tiles from the main wall face. But the back, sides, top and base may need tiles of their own. Include every part you intend to tile. Edge trims and the thickness of the lining can also affect the finished measurements.

Draw the walls in the tile layout planner. Check the corners yourself: separate plans do not align automatically. Follow the full process in the beginner’s guide.

Concrete example

You want a grout line just above the niche. Place it on the drawing, then add rows upwards and downwards, including the joints. If this leaves a very thin strip near the floor, try moving the rows. Cut pieces around the niche may work better than forcing that alignment.