Bathroom Niche Guide: Recessed Wall Shelves in Showers and Walls, Standard Sizes, Wall Depth, Waterproofing, Sloping Bases, Tile and Stone Options and Indicative Costs in Pakistan
A bathroom niche is a recessed shelf built into a wall, usually in the shower, that holds shampoo and soap without sticking out, and it gives a clean, modern look if it is planned and waterproofed properly. Costs run from about PKR 3,000 for a simple tiled niche to PKR 25,000 for a stone or prefabricated unit. This page covers recessed shelves in showers and walls, standard sizes, wall depth, waterproofing, sloping bases, tile and stone options and costs. For other storage see bathroom organizers, corner racks and bathroom cupboards.
Why a niche
A niche stores bottles inside the wall, so they do not take up shower space or fall off hanging racks. It is neat and easy to clean, and it can be a design feature with contrasting tiles. It must be planned before the wall is tiled.
Standard sizes
These are typical sizes. Adjust to your wall and tile size.
| Item | Typical size |
|---|---|
| Small niche | 30 x 30 cm, depth 8 - 10 cm |
| Standard niche | 30 x 60 cm, depth 8 - 10 cm |
| Wide niche | 60 x 30 cm or 90 x 30 cm |
| Height from floor | 100 - 130 cm to the base |
| Shelf thickness | 1 - 2 cm tile or stone |
| Depth in a brick wall | 8 - 12 cm |
Prices move with brand, model, size and stock. Use these ranges to judge a quote, then compare the exact model and what is included.
Wall depth
A niche needs wall depth, usually 8 to 10 centimetres. In a 4.5-inch brick wall, you can cut a shallow niche but must not weaken the wall, and it must not break a pipe. In a thin partition, use a prefabricated box or a surface shelf instead.
Waterproofing
A niche is a wet area inside the wall, so waterproofing is critical. Cover all faces with a membrane, overlapping the shower waterproofing, and test with water. A poorly sealed niche leaks into the wall. Use a waterproof backing board or a prefabricated box.
Sloped base
The shelf should slope slightly outward, about 1 to 2 percent, so water drains and does not sit in the niche and form mould. Use a thick-bed mortar or a sloped prefabricated base. Seal corners with flexible sealant.
Materials and design
Line the niche with the same tile as the shower or a contrast tile or stone. Use a single piece of marble or porcelain for the shelf to avoid grout lines. Add a trim edge for a neat finish. Size the niche to the tile grid.
Indicative costs
These ranges show common figures.
| Item | Indicative range |
|---|---|
| Simple tiled niche, labour and tile | PKR 3,000 - 10,000 |
| Prefabricated niche box | PKR 3,000 - 12,000 |
| Stone or marble niche shelf | PKR 5,000 - 25,000 |
| Waterproofing and sealant | PKR 1,000 - 4,000 |
| Surface-mount shower caddy, alternative | PKR 500 - 3,800 |
Prices move with brand, model, size and stock. Use these ranges to judge a quote, then compare the exact model and what is included.
What to check before buying
- Wall depth. Enough and not structural
- Waterproofing. Full membrane and test
- Slope. Draining outward
- Position. Away from direct spray
Niche or caddy
If you rent or do not want to cut a wall, a stainless shower caddy is a quick alternative, see bathroom organizers. For a new bathroom, a niche gives a premium look. Plan it with the tiler before tiling begins. Fixed plumbing should be done by a licensed plumber.
Before you decide
Mark the position with tape, check the wall depth and pipes and decide the size by the tile grid. A properly waterproofed niche is a lasting, tidy feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
A recessed shelf built into a wall, usually in the shower, to hold bottles and soap. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay.
A standard niche is about 30 by 60 centimetres and 8 to 10 centimetres deep, fixed 100 to 130 centimetres from the floor. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering.
Cover every face with a membrane that overlaps the shower waterproofing, and test with water before tiling. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
A simple tiled niche is about PKR 3,000 to 10,000, a prefabricated box about PKR 3,000 to 12,000 and a stone shelf about PKR 5,000 to 25,000. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
Yes, slightly outward, so water drains and does not sit in the niche. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
Send the details and a photo on WhatsApp. We confirm what we can supply and reply with a written rate that lists the model, size, warranty and delivery, so you can compare it with other quotes on the same scope. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
Planning a niche?
Send the details and a photo. We reply with a written rate.