How to Choose the Right Shower Enclosure: Styles, Sizes & Buying Guide
You know that moment when you're trying to enjoy a hot shower, but the water’s leaking out all over the floor, the door sticks (again), and the whole thing just looks… meh? Yep, we’ve all been there. Maybe you’ve inherited a clunky old enclosure that doesn’t quite fit your space, or you’re finally giving your bathroom the upgrade it deserves.
Either way, choosing the right shower enclosure isn’t just a tick on your renovation checklist; it’s what makes or breaks your morning routine. But with so many shapes, sizes, door styles and finishes out there, where do you even begin? Do you go for a quadrant shower enclosure for your ensuite? Or that ultra-cool black shower enclosure that’s all over Pinterest?
Don’t worry, Jaquar makes the process smoother (and a lot more stylish). With everything from compact designs to custom-fit enclosures and even free design consultations with 3D models so you can see exactly how it’ll look, we’re here to help you turn your bathroom into your favourite room in the house.
1. Start with Your Bathroom Layout
Before you fall in love with a specific design, take a good look at your bathroom layout. Do you have corners available? Is the room narrow or square? Where’s the plumbing?
- Corner installations work beautifully with quadrant shower enclosures, which offer a sleek, curved design that maximises space.
- For larger rooms, walk-in shower enclosures add a spa-like feel and are incredibly convenient, especially if you want a minimalist, open look.
- If you have limited clearance or space constraints, a sliding door shower enclosure could be your best bet. No swinging doors to worry about!
Tip: Always measure your available space carefully: length, width, and ceiling height.
2. Choose the Right Style
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to shower enclosure styles. Think about how you use your shower and what kind of statement you want your bathroom to make.
Quadrant Shower Enclosure
These are ideal for smaller bathrooms or en-suites. The curved front and corner-fitting design maximises floor space while still offering a comfortable showering area. Jaquar’s quadrant models come with smooth sliding doors and clear tempered glass for a contemporary look.
Walk-In Shower Enclosures
Want that sleek, hotel-style luxury? Walk-ins are perfect. They offer easy access, clean lines, and are great for people with mobility needs. Jaquar’s walk-in designs often come in frameless glass and pair beautifully with both modern and classic interiors.
Framed Shower Enclosures
Add character with a bold black shower enclosure or a luxurious gold frame. Whether you're after a sleek modern look or timeless elegance, Jaquar's framed enclosures combine standout style with premium functionality for a shower that performs as beautifully as it looks.
Sliding Door Shower Enclosure
These save space and offer a seamless feel. Jaquar offers high-quality sliding systems that glide effortlessly, even with daily use.
3. Consider the Size and Configuration
Shower enclosures come in a range of standard sizes, but it’s important to match the dimensions to your actual available space. Common sizes include:
- 700x700mm (ideal for compact bathrooms)
- 900x900mm (more roomy and comfortable)
- 1000mm+ (great for walk-in setups or sliding doors)
Jaquar offers enclosures in various configurations, including corner entry, alcove fitting, and wall-to-wall installations. We also provide customised sizes if your bathroom has an unusual layout. Plus, the 3D design service helps you visualise how it will all come together, no surprises!
4. Look at the Glass Quality and Finish
Not all glass is created equal. Always go for toughened or tempered safety glass that’s at least 6mm thick. Jaquar enclosures feature high-quality 8mm clear toughened glass, often with anti-limescale coating, making them easier to clean and maintain.
And if you’re aiming for a certain aesthetic, don’t overlook the frame finish. Whether it’s sleek chrome, matte black, or brushed gold, we offer a range of finishes that will match your taps, showers, and other bathroom hardware.
5. Functionality and Ease of Maintenance
It’s one thing for a shower enclosure to look good, but it also needs to work well. With Jaquar, you get features like:
- Soft-close rollers for sliding doors
- High-quality seals to prevent leaks
- Easy-clean glass technology
- Smooth door movement with minimal noise
All of these little details make a big difference in the long run, especially when you’re in a rush or cleaning day rolls around.
6. Use Jaquar’s Free Design Support
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Jaquar is our commitment to getting the design right before installation. With free design consultations and 3D visualisations, you can see how your selected shower enclosure will actually look in your bathroom space. This is especially helpful if you're trying to coordinate with existing tiles or fittings.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right shower enclosure is a mix of practical planning and personal taste. Think about your space, how you use it, and what style suits your home. With Jaquar’s wide range of options, from walk-in shower enclosures to compact quadrant enclosures, you’ll find something that’s just right for you.
And with our free design consultations, custom sizing, and premium build quality, Jaquar UK takes a lot of the guesswork out of bathroom planning. So go ahead, explore your options, and transform your daily shower into something truly refreshing!
