An Outdoor Shower Is Just What Your Backyard Is Missing—Here Are 7 of Our Favorites

Architect Aaron Weinert of Studio DRAW successfully incorporated elements of an outdoor shower into the primary bathroom of a mid-century modern home in Swampscott, Massachusetts. The clients desired the experience of an outdoor shower but it was not feasible for the indoor bath. Weinert’s solution involved designing a shower with a glass wall and an operable skylight, allowing natural light, views of trees, and airflow into the space. This design aimed to replicate the sensory experience of being outdoors while maintaining the comfort and privacy of an indoor setting. The design incorporated several key features to achieve this effect. The heating and cooling vent was seamlessly integrated into the toe kick of a custom beechwood vanity, featuring touch-latch doors for a clean, hands-free aesthetic. Instead of traditional double sinks, a trough sink was installed, enabling two people to use it simultaneously. The marble countertop, with its green veining, was selected to complement and enhance the natural, tree-filled views outside the window, further connecting the interior with the surrounding environment. To maximize the perception of space and light, a large mirror was strategically placed beneath a new transom window. This mirror not only reflects the abundant outdoor light, making the bathroom feel more expansive, but also brings the outside views deeper into the room. The operable skylight, a central feature of the design, is lined with beechwood panels in a deep well. According to Weinert, this wood finish bathes the shower area in a warm, golden light, enhancing the natural and inviting atmosphere. The shower itself is equipped with a rain showerhead and features river rock floor tiles, chosen to mimic the natural texture and sensation of showering outdoors. The shower walls are adorned with Carrara marble mosaic tiles, which include dynamic gray and gold veining, adding visual interest and texture to the space. For the exterior wall, the original solid structure was replaced with three fixed window panels. The central panel is frosted to ensure privacy, while the other two allow for natural light. An old laundry chute was ingeniously repurposed to create a practical towel niche and a built-in bench, optimizing functionality within the luxurious and nature-inspired bathroom design. #HomeDesign #BathroomRenovation #IndoorOutdoorLiving #Skylight #NaturalLight #ModernArchitecture #SwampscottHome

Upgrading a bathroom to a spa-like retreat can be achieved through the installation of a rain shower head, which provides a wide, soft, and relaxing stream of water. Several models from prominent brands like Kohler, Delta, and Moen were tested at home to assess their performance across various criteria including water pressure, flow, design, ease of installation, and overall value. The general consensus is that replacing a shower head is a straightforward DIY task that does not necessarily require a significant financial investment. An important factor to consider when selecting a rain shower head is the flow rate, typically measured in gallons per minute (GPM). Most households are designed to accommodate a maximum flow rate of 2.5 GPM. However, consumers should choose a shower head that aligns with their preferred water pressure. Joseph Wade, Vice President of Operations at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, advises that if water conservation is a priority or if stricter state regulations apply, opting for a shower head with a flow rate of 1.8 GPM or less would be beneficial. It's also noted that rain shower heads, due to their wide spray, might not be ideal for individuals who prefer very strong water pressure or have smaller shower enclosures. The Delta Raincan Dual Shower Head is highlighted as the top overall pick, as well as the best option that includes a handheld attachment. It features an even and steady water pressure described as therapeutic and massage-like, covering almost the entire shower area for an immersive experience. This model offers an adjustable height and three spray settings: rain, handheld, or both. The lightweight and maneuverable handheld attachment, which can be mounted at any height, is praised for its utility in targeted washing. Its 72-inch hose is also a benefit for cleaning, though it may require straightening upon arrival. This water-saving design, customizable in finish and settings, was easily installed in five minutes and proved leak-free. For those on a budget, the Delta Windemere Rain Shower Head is presented as an excellent choice, offering high performance at a lower cost. It provides a steady, relaxing water flow and conserves water, making it suitable for large families and environmentally conscious buyers. Installation is simple, requiring only a wrench, and its rubber nozzles are easy to clean. Despite its affordability, it maintains a sleek design. While it lacks handheld settings and has a smaller spray area compared to other models, its compact circumference allows for convenient body washing without wetting hair. The Moen Isabel Two-Function Spray Head Rainshower is recommended for individuals seeking a high-pressure rain shower experience, featuring both jet and full rain settings. Its powerful concentrated jet is effective for rinsing shampoo, while the dispersed flow delivers a gentle rain stream. The shower head pivots smoothly in all directions, catering to users of different heights. It offers excellent water pressure and a broad, even flow, along with an elegant design that is easy to clean. The Delta HydroRain Dual Shower Heads stand out for their extensive spray settings. This highly customizable design offers five settings, including powerdrench, full body, massaging, shampoo rinsing, and a 'pause' function to conserve water. Users can choose between 1.75 GPM or 2.5 GPM flow rates. The dual heads ensure wide coverage, and a magnetic dock securely holds the lightweight handheld attachment. The finish is resistant to hard water spots and easy to clean, and the adjustable tilt accommodates various heights. Although installation takes about 30 minutes, it remains relatively simple. The KOHLER Raindet Round Rain Shower Head is an ideal solution for bathrooms with short wall arms, featuring an offset junction that maximizes angle adjustability for its eight-inch diameter head. It provides wide, even spray coverage without gaps, though the water flow is gentler than some other models. This shower head offers no adjustable spray settings or handheld attachment. Additionally, the American Standard Studio S 1-Spray Rain Shower Head is a notable option for ceiling mounting, offering broad coverage and even distribution for a steamroom-like atmosphere. It is easy to install and provides 360-degree adjustability within a 10-degree depth. For expansive coverage, the Kohler Awaken Rain Showerhead, particularly the 10-inch model, immerses the entire body and offers ample clearance for taller individuals. However, it is prone to fingerprint marks and lacks adjustable settings. Both these alternatives maintain a sleek appearance and offer reliable long-term performance, providing the signature rainfall experience. These shower heads were tested for broad and even water distribution, installation time, adaptability to water conditions, leak prevention, positioning effectiveness, adjustability, build quality, and ease of cleaning and maintenance. The process emphasized identifying models that combine strong, steady flow with customizable features like power settings, height adjustments, or handheld attachments. #RainShowerHeads #BathroomUpgrade #HomeImprovement #ShowerHeadReview #WaterConservation #DIYBathroom #DeltaShowerHeads #KohlerShowerHeads #MoenShowerHeads

This article presents 17 creative ideas to enhance summertime outdoor living, transforming backyards into functional and enjoyable spaces. It emphasizes embracing the outdoors as a reward for enduring winter, encouraging individuals to maximize the warm weather for relaxation and recreation. The suggestions range from simple additions to more involved DIY projects, all aimed at fostering a comfortable and engaging outdoor environment. The recommendations begin with creating spaces for relaxation, such as hanging a hammock to enjoy cooler evening temperatures and setting up a tent in the backyard for overnight stays, suitable for both children and adults. To bring the ambiance of nature indoors, it suggests opening windows to hear crickets and cicadas while sleeping. Culinary activities are also central, with ideas like making sun tea, eating meals outside to experience summer breezes and grass underfoot, and preparing food outdoors to keep the kitchen cool and clean. An IKEA hack for an outdoor gas stove is mentioned as a practical addition for outdoor cooking. For comfort and pest control, the article advises acquiring a chiminea for warmth and bug deterrence, and making homemade bug spray as a natural alternative to chemical products. Long-term enhancements include planting fast-growing shade trees to provide future shade. It also encourages foraging for edible plants in the yard, such as dandelions, wild sorrel, wild plantain, and wild onions, while emphasizing the importance of research and expert guidance for safe identification. Practical additions for outdoor convenience and fun include building a solar shower for post-gardening cleanup or cooling off, and using cupcake liners with straws to protect drinks from insects. Entertainment ideas feature creating an outdoor theater using a white sheet and a projector, evoking the nostalgia of drive-ins. For social gatherings, the article suggests setting up an outdoor bar or beverage station to entertain guests. Lighting is highlighted as crucial for nighttime safety and ambiance, with recommendations for hanging string lights or crafting lanterns from mason jars. Outdoor games, such as croquet or badminton, are encouraged to promote active enjoyment. Finally, for a touch of serenity, the article recommends adding wind chimes to provide peaceful sounds, ideally enjoyed with a glass of lemonade. #BackyardIdeas #OutdoorLiving #SummerActivities #HomeImprovement #OutdoorDecor #DIYProjects #GardenDesign #RelaxationSpaces #OutdoorEntertainment

This article explores the growing trend of luxurious showers, highlighting 15 innovative design ideas that prioritize the showering experience over traditional soaking tubs. Pinterest data indicates a significant increase in searches for 'shower routine aesthetic' (up 460%) and 'walk-in shower' (up nearly 400%), underscoring a shift in homeowner preferences toward advanced and aesthetically pleasing shower spaces. The featured designs showcase a variety of styles and functionalities. One example is a resort-style shower room, large enough to accommodate multiple shower systems and a stone vessel tub. This design emphasizes natural materials like limestone tile and paneling, along with neutral colors, to create a relaxing and organic atmosphere. Another concept involves a glass and steel shower enclosure, offering an industrial aesthetic through the combination of various tiles and stones to add texture and visual interest. Creative use of color is also presented, such as a lavender doorless shower that utilizes a bold, yet soothing color palette. This design integrates wallpaper and metallic, fabric-backed shower tiles, with gold metallic accents providing a cohesive finish. For smaller bathrooms, the "disappearing" walk-in shower is introduced, which employs frameless glass and continuous floor patterns to expand the perceived space. Similarly, a patterned walk-in shower and tub duo integrates matching black-and-white patterns across the shower accent wall and floor, visually grounding a vessel tub. Neutral iterations of the disappearing shower concept combine white and dark oak limestone in linear strips, aiming for an inviting and modern feel, often paired with adjacent sauna rooms for a complete wellness experience. A unique hallway-style shower with pocket doors illustrates how eliminating a bathtub can free up space for a larger shower and custom storage solutions, enhanced by subtle color pops and minimalist shelving. Minimalist designs are exemplified by crisp, white walk-in showers featuring white-gray tiling and glass walls, complemented by simple recessed shelves and rain shower heads. In contrast, an industrial black shower embraces darker tones with subway tile floors, vertical wall tiles, and industrial metal and glass, with a black ceiling extending the visual continuity. Tone-on-tone tiled step-in showers demonstrate how luxurious, statement-making tiles can infuse personality into small spaces, creating a spa-like ambiance when paired with matching hardware and glass enclosures. Designs focused on blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces incorporate organic materials, earthy tones, and the absence of walls or doors, utilizing elements like antique wooden stools and woven baskets to add texture and character. For homes in private settings, walk-in showers with floor-to-ceiling windows offer direct connections to nature, with material choices that blend seamlessly with the exterior. Bold color schemes are highlighted in designs like the spring pink shower, where pink and gold tiles are balanced with vibrant bird-patterned wallpaper. Further luxurious options include spa-inspired steam showers, where marble tiling extends to the ceiling to create an opulent and functional space, often personalized with colorful runners and artwork. Finally, ultra-modern marble showers transform the shower into an artistic centerpiece, using artistic mosaic tiles, white thassos mosaic flooring, and Calacatta slabs, enhanced by dramatic ten-foot ceilings and contemporary lighting. #ShowerDesign #BathroomRenovation #LuxuryShowers #WalkInShower #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ModernBathroom #SpaBathroom #TileTrends

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered summer activities, leading to the closure of public pools and concerns about crowded beaches. In response, many homeowners with yards sought innovative ways to create private swimming oases. Jen Stark, a home improvement expert and founder of Happy DIY Home, noted a substantial increase in interest in build-it-yourself pools during this period, highlighting the desire for safe and private cooling options. One popular DIY option is the Stock Tank Pool, which gained prominence through social media platforms like Instagram. These pools are constructed from galvanized metal tanks, traditionally used for livestock watering, and are typically two feet deep, making them ideal for relaxing. Enthusiasts often personalize them with paint, surrounding stone walls, or integration into wooden decks. Due to high demand, securing these tanks can be challenging, and it's recommended to use a pool liner or rust-proof agent to prevent rust and peeling paint. Resources like The New York Times' Wirecutter and Bob Vila offer comprehensive guides on equipment and maintenance. Another creative approach involves Pallet Pools, hailed by Country Living as a rising trend. This method utilizes wooden pallets to form a frame, which is then lined with a waterproof tarp or roofing membrane. The choice of untreated pine or cedar pallets is advised for natural resistance to insects and rot. Pallet pools can vary significantly in size, from small soaking tubs to larger above-ground structures, depending on the number of pallets used. Easy Pallet Ideas provides tutorials and examples for construction. The Shipping Container Pool offers a more substantial, albeit pricier, solution. These pools are made from repurposed rectangular cargo shipping containers. Several companies specialize in converting these containers into backyard pools, complete with stairs, decks, and even hot and cold sections, delivering them ready for use. Canadian company Modpool emphasizes the versatility of these units, allowing for in-ground, above-ground, or semi-recessed installation. Some designs incorporate windows for an 'aquarium effect.' A key advantage is their portability, as they can be moved when relocating. For extreme DIYers, YouTube offers numerous tutorials, though prefab units can cost upwards of $20,000. Natural Swimming Pools represent an eco-friendlier option, though they require careful planning to avoid becoming muddy or stagnant. Inspired by European trends, these pools involve digging a sloped hole, lining it with bentonite clay or a synthetic liner, and covering the bottom with clean gravel. Specific plants are then used for natural filtration, and an aeration system is necessary to prevent water stagnation and odors. Mother Earth News provides a detailed tutorial for their construction. For a more rustic and temporary solution, the Hay Bale Pool involves stacking hay bales into a rectangular shape and lining them with a tarp. While often shallow and intended for lounging, some individuals, like Canadian water polo player Kyra Christmas, have built deeper versions for fitness. Jen Stark advises ensuring the hay bale walls are sturdy before filling to prevent collapse and water spillage. Finally, for those with limited resources, the "Whatever You Can Find in the Garage" Pool demonstrates that almost anything sturdy can be repurposed into a temporary pool frame when combined with a waterproof lining. Examples include using beer crates, dumpsters, truck beds, bricks, cardboard, and giant tires. These improvised pools are generally best for short-term use and require draining after a weekend to prevent stagnation and pest breeding due to the lack of filtration systems. For quick relief for children, an Instant Kiddie Pool can be constructed in about 30 minutes using scrap PVC pipes and a tarp, or a splash pad can be made with a tarp and pool noodles, offering easily collapsible and storable options for hot days. #DIYPools #BackyardOasis #SummerActivities #HomeImprovement #StockTankPool #PalletPool #ShippingContainerPool #NaturalSwimmingPool #HayBalePool