Who: Jerry De Gier

Where: Canal Winchester, OH

What: Garden Tub Replacement with Walk-in Shower with Bench

Products: Custom poured shower base to fit the footprint of the previous garden tub, wrapped in Calcutta marble shower walls throughout, with complementary Calcutta shower shelving and bench seat. Oil-rubbed bronze fixtures including shower door frames, shower valve, rainshower head, and handheld showerhead.

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Turning a Garden Tub into a Shower with a Unique Custom Feature

For Jerry De Gier, Turning a garden tub into a shower was an avenue for Creative bathroom Customization

When Jerry De Gier set out to update his bathroom, the goal was clear: Transform an unused, unsafe garden tub into beautiful and functional space. After meeting an Improveit Community Engagement representative in his neighborhood, he knew he found a company he could trust to bring his vision to life.

Rather than reworking the primary bathroom’s footprint, this garden tub to walk-in shower conversion was built directly within the original space. A custom poured shower base mirrors the unique shape of the former tub, while new walls were added along the shorter sides to support updated plumbing and fixtures. It’s a thoughtful approach that delivers a seamless transformation of the space without unnecessary demolition or construction.

Inside the shower, Calcutta marble-inspired acrylic walls create a bright, elegant look from top to bottom. Matching shelving and a built-in bench seat offer both convenience and comfort, while oil-rubbed bronze fixtures, including a rain showerhead, handheld showerhead, shower valve, and glass shower door add warmth and contrast.

Putting Unique Tub to Walk in Shower Conversion Ideas into Practice

One of the most unique features of this shower is the placement of the handheld showerhead. Instead of mounting it in the traditional overhead position, Mr. De Gier opted to install it near the bench seat. Paired with the overhead rain shower, this creates a flexible space and makes seated bathing more accessible and comfortable. It’s a small design choice that turns a standard “walk-in shower with bench” into a spa-like bathing experience that makes a big impact, especially for homeowners thinking about long-term usability.

To complete the transformation, the bathroom window was replaced with a double-hung design featuring frosted glass for added privacy. The window was then capped in acrylic to ensure a watertight seal within the shower environment, blending function with peace of mind.

This project is a perfect example of how smart design can turn an outdated feature into a standout space built for both today and the years ahead.