Tub-to-shower conversion can be tricky. Many new and seasoned condo dwellers face the dilemma: Should I convert my tub into a shower, and how difficult is it?
In this project overview, we aim to answer this question and address other considerations related to converting a tub to a shower, specifically within a condo environment. We will also highlight key aspects that you, as a homeowner, need to know before embarking on this project.
This was a unique project. Our customer wanted to make their bathroom more functional and accessible. Their existing bathroom consisted of four pieces: a drop-in tub, a small 36×36-inch shower, a vanity, and a toilet. Although the bathroom had ample space, it was not functional or practical for their needs. They decided to convert the four-piece bathroom into a three-piece bathroom, focusing on converting the drop-in tub into an easy-access shower and using the remaining space to create more storage.
One key aspect of this project worth mentioning is that the renovation took place in a low-rise condo building.
Due to the constraints of condo living, the plumbing for the drop-in tub had to remain in its exact location. The unit was situated above an underground parking area, making it not only prohibited but also physically impossible to relocate the plumbing in this particular situation.
As you can see in the pictures, the layout of the bathroom was quite unique. The drop-in tub drain came directly from the concrete slab, located 42 inches away from the back wall. This posed a challenge because the adjacent right wall near the new closet was only 32 inches deep—sufficient for installing a Bath Depot 32×60 acrylic shower base, but the drain was far outside the shower base’s location.
We had no choice but to build a shower base platform to house the plumbing drain. While it wasn’t our first choice—since it detracts slightly from the minimalist and easy-access aesthetic—it was the best solution for this situation. Most importantly, our customer agreed that it provided an excellent combination of functionality and style.
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The old shower space was converted into a linen closet.
Since the original floor tile was no longer available, our clients chose a different tile color to accent the existing flooring. In our opinion, this decision worked out beautifully. The wall tiles were selected for their ease of maintenance and timeless appeal. The double bypass shower doors offer ample entrance and egress space, while the fold-down shower bench is another great example of combining functionality with aesthetics.
Overall, this was a highly satisfying project for us and a great final product for our clients. We deeply appreciate their kind words in their video testimonial and look forward to completing many more projects with similar results.
A big thank you to our clients for their trust and vision, and to our crew—Ryan, Oleg, and Igor—for their dedication and hard work. We also thank our partners at Bath Depot for their support and collaboration on this and many other projects.
Sincerely,
Ben W.