How long does it take to install a custom shower?

Most custom showers take 3 to 5 days from demolition to completion. More advanced projects involving tile work, plumbing changes, or accessibility features may take longer. A detailed timeline is provided upfront before work begins.

Is a custom shower more expensive than a standard unit?

A custom shower is an investment, but it doesn't have to break the bank. Be Leaf works with a range of budgets and offers smart material and design recommendations to achieve the look and function you want without overspending.

Do I need a building permit to install a custom shower in Ottawa?

If electrical work is involved, ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) permits are required and handled by Be Leaf's certified electrician. If plumbing stays in place, permits may not be required. If drains or walls are being moved, permits will be needed. Be Leaf manages all permitting, inspections, and code compliance.

What are the best materials for custom shower walls?

The best material depends on your goals. Acrylic panels are ideal for easy cleaning and a sleek look. Ceramic or porcelain tile offers a timeless, customizable finish. Natural stone provides a luxury feel with texture and warmth. Be Leaf helps you weigh aesthetics, budget, and maintenance during your free consultation.

Can I design the layout myself?

Absolutely. In-home consultations include layout discussions, fixture placement, and 3D visual mockups. Be Leaf collaborates with you at every step to bring your vision to life.

Do you install accessible or barrier-free showers?

Yes. Many clients choose walk-in or curbless shower designs for safety and aging in place. Be Leaf can incorporate grab bars, built-in benches, non-slip flooring, and wide barrier-free entries without sacrificing style.

Custom Shower Installation
in Ottawa

Designed Just for You

Get a Free Estimate

Build From $9,000

Be Leaf Renovation has helped Ottawa homeowners design and install custom showers with premium materials, smart features, and full personalization — from heated floors and LED-lit niches to natural stone walls and digital shower controls. Most custom shower projects complete in 2-3 weeks and start from $9,000. Whether you want a spa-style ensuite retreat or a sleek modern upgrade, every detail — surface, fixture, light — is yours to choose. Serving homeowners across Kanata, Nepean, Orleans, Barrhaven, and Stittsville. Every project includes our 3-year workmanship warranty.

→ Looking specifically for a walk-in shower? See our Walk-In Shower page.

→ Need to replace an existing bathtub? See our Tub-To-Shower Conversion page.

Custom shower with geometric star-patterned tile.

Custom Shower with Geometric Star-Patterned Wall Tiles

We built a custom luxury shower featuring patterned accent walls and a dark hexagonal floor.

See more projects in our portfolio

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Our Recent

Custom Shower Installations in Ottawa

Why Ottawa Homeowners Choose Custom Shower Installation

Custom shower installation is the top-tier option in our shower service lineup — and Ottawa homeowners choose it for very specific reasons. Below are the five most common drivers we hear during free in-home consultations.

contemporary bathroom renovation shower featuring a glass enclosure and tiled walls. Blueish vanity is at the front.

01. Full Personalization Beyond Catalog Options

Pre-fab shower kits are limited to standard sizes, fixed layouts, and basic materials. A custom shower lets you choose every element: size, layout, materials, tile pattern, glass type, fixtures, lighting, and integrated features. For Ottawa homeowners with unique bathroom shapes or specific design visions, this is the main reason to go custom.

Close-up of a smiling African woman enjoying a refreshing water in luxury walk-in shower.

02. Premium Materials Worth the Investment

Custom showers use materials that simply aren't available in pre-fab kits — natural stone slabs, large-format porcelain, designer tile, premium fixtures. These materials last 20+ years with proper care versus 7-10 years for pre-fab plastic. The upfront cost is higher, but the long-term value is significantly stronger.

modern minimalist 3-piece bathroom vanity mirror custom shower

03. Smart Features That Transform Daily Use

Smart shower systems with preset temperatures, multiple showerheads, LED niche lighting, and digital or voice controls turn a daily routine into a spa experience. These features require integrated electrical and waterproofing planning — possible only during a custom build, not retrofit.

woman standing under refreshing morning shower

04. Heated Floors & Spa-Like Comfort

Electric in-floor heating is one of the most-requested upgrades in our Ottawa custom showers — especially valuable for cold winter mornings. Combined with heated towel rails and premium tile, the effect is a hotel-quality experience in your own ensuite.

Father in a bathrobe holding his daughter in pajamas near a shower enclosure and basket

05. Long-Term Value and Strong Resale Appeal

Real estate appraisers weight custom showers strongly in valuation — especially in primary ensuites. A well-executed custom shower with premium materials and smart features typically returns 60-80% of cost at resale, more than nearly any other bathroom upgrade.

Professional cleaning service man working inside a custom frameless glass shower space.

06. Easier to Clean, Easier to Love

Let’s be honest — tubs can be grime traps. Our shower conversions use seamless acrylic panels or tile systems with low-maintenance grout. That means: no moldy caulk lines, no soap-scum ledges, no back-breaking scrubbing. You’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying.

What’s Included:
What Makes a Shower Truly Custom? You Decide.

When we say custom, we mean it — every surface, fixture, and feature is chosen by you, with expert help from us. Here’s what you can personalize:

Bathroom renovation with black hexagonal tiles in the shower, patterned wall tiles, window, painting tools on floor

Wall Surrounds & Materials

Choose what surrounds you:

Seamless Acrylic – low maintenance, sleek look
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile – timeless and versatile
Natural Stone – luxury with texture and depth
Bold patterns, neutral tones, or earthy textures — it’s your canvas

Modern bathroom with open-entry designs and frameless glass shower, black fixtures, white toilet, and gray walls. Sunlight filters through blinds.

Shower Enclosure & Entry

From dramatic frameless glass to classic sliders:

Frameless or semi-frameless glass
Sliding, hinged, or open-entry designs
Barrier-free or curbless access for ultimate minimalism
Every choice changes the feel of your space — modern, classic, or spa-like.

Be Leaf renovation company employee in a gray hoodie installs a showerhead inside a modern shower booth. Logos "be leaf" Bright, clean setting.

Fixtures & Functional Add-Ons

Rainfall, handheld, or dual showerheads
Thermostatic or pressure-balanced valves
Built-in wall niches & floating shelves
Fold-down benches or built-in seating
Smart lighting with dimmers or LEDs in niches

Marble-tiled shower with a glass barrier, metal grab bar, and built-in corner shelf as bench seating. Bright, modern design.

Accessibility Features (Elegant & Practical)

Slip-resistant floors
Grab bars that match your finishes
Wide entries & zero-barrier thresholds
Bench seating and adjustable handhelds

Grey half-tiled shower floor with heated-floor membrane installation

Bonus Options (Yes, You Can Have These Too)

Heated floors or shower seats
Steam feature or aromatherapy
Integrated Bluetooth audio
LED ambient lighting or chromatherapy

Contractor measuring shower wall waterproofing membrane

Photo Gallery:
How We Build Custom Shower in Ottawa

From Dream to Done.
Our Proven Shower Installation Process

Installing a custom shower doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
We’ve built a step-by-step system that keeps everything clear, clean, and on track — so you can focus on the exciting part: the result.

Step 01

Design
Consultation

We start in your home.
You tell us what you want — your must-haves, pain points, inspiration photos.

We take measurements, show you samples, and build a personalized plan and quote.

Step 02

Final Design &
Scheduling

Once you're happy with the design and material choices, we lock in the schedule — often with install dates available within 1–2 weeks.

You’ll get a full project timeline up front.

Step 03

Professional Demolition
& Prep

We remove the old shower or tub, clean the space, inspect the structure, and prepare everything for a fresh start.

No mess left behind — we protect your home and minimize disruption.

Step 04

Waterproofing &
Base Installation

This is where the real magic starts.

We install a watertight shower base and apply a full waterproofing system to walls and floors. This ensures durability and peace of mind for years to come.

Step 05

Custom Wall, Fixtures & Enclosure

We install your chosen wall material — tile, acrylic, or stone — along with fixtures, lighting, built-ins, and glass enclosures.

Every piece is aligned, sealed, and finished to perfection.

Step 06

Finishing Touches & Clean-Up

We complete all caulking, trims, and cleanup.

Then we walk you through the finished shower, answer any questions, and hand over your warranty package.

Most custom shower installations take 2 to 3 weeks from start to final walkthrough — depending on complexity, materials, and smart features. Simple builds complete on the shorter end; full luxury builds with natural stone, heated floors, and integrated smart systems may extend to 3-4 weeks. Schedule Your Free In-Home Consultation

Custom shower installations in Ottawa typically range from $9,000 for a tailored standard build to $25,000+ for fully luxury designs with natural stone, heated floors, multiple showerheads, and integrated smart systems.

The final cost depends on four main factors: the materials you choose (porcelain tile is most affordable, natural stone is premium), the level of personalization (single feature vs. full custom build), smart features added (heated flooring, LED lighting, digital controls), and the complexity of the layout.

During your free in-home consultation, we walk through every material and feature with you and give a fixed, transparent quote — no vague "starting at" prices, no surprises later.

More About Prices

Custom Shower Materials & Premium Features

Custom showers come together through premium materials and integrated smart features that transform daily use. Below are the three main categories we work with — each adds something different to the final shower, and each is fully your choice.

Premium Wall Surfaces

Wall surface defines the entire shower aesthetic. Premium options include natural stone slabs (marble, travertine, granite — striking visual depth, luxury feel), large-format porcelain (modern, lower-maintenance, marble-look options), and designer mosaic accents or feature walls.

For Ottawa luxury ensuites, we often combine large-format porcelain on three walls with a natural stone accent on the focal wall — premium look at controlled cost. Every wall installation uses Schluter-Kerdi waterproofing membranes.

Glass, Fixtures & Premium Hardware

Frameless 10mm tempered glass is the modern standard — visually expands the space, lets natural light flow through. Premium fixtures (Hansgrohe, Grohe, Riobel, Brizo) deliver superior water pressure, longevity, and design consistency. Finish options include polished chrome, matte black, brushed brass, gunmetal, and brushed nickel.

Custom built-in benches and recessed niches at task-appropriate heights complete the build. Every fixture connection is leak-tested before final walkthrough.

Smart Features & Comfort Upgrades

Smart features are what elevate a custom shower from beautiful to truly luxurious. Electric in-floor heating keeps tile warm year-round — especially valuable in Ottawa winters. LED niche and overhead lighting with dimmer controls adds ambient atmosphere. Smart shower systems (Moen U, Kohler DTV+) let you preset water temperature, body sprays, and rainfall settings via touchscreen or mobile app.

Voice control via Alexa or Google Home integrates these systems into your home. We plan electrical and waterproofing for all smart features during the initial build.

Make It Yours. Design Options to Match Your Lifestyle

A custom shower should do more than clean — it should calm, energize, and reflect your personal style. From classic minimalism to modern indulgence, we offer curated options that bring your vision to life.

Shower wall option materials on four parts of image: Seamless acrylic tiles, ceramic tiles, porcelain tile, natural stone tiles

Wall Surrounds

Available in dozens of colors, patterns, and textures. Choose your style and material:

Acrylic Panels

Seamless, durable, easy to clean

Ceramic or Porcelain Tile

Timeless and customizable

Natural Stone

Texture, warmth, and luxury feel

Shower Enclosures

Shower surrounds come in a variety of options, allowing you to select what best suits your space and tastes:

Frameless Glass

Clean lines, open and modern

Framed/Semi-Frameless

Sleek yet budget-friendly

Sliding, Hinged, or Open Entry

Form that follows function

image divided into four parts: four different handheld rainfall thermostatic faucets for water regulation; metal hose with shower head; two modern thermostatic faucets.

Fixtures & Function

Functional additions can bring convenience.

Rain showerheads,

handheld wands, dual-spray systems

Thermostatic valves

for temperature consistency

Matte black

brushed gold, chrome & more finishes

Four ideas of lighting and storage: Built-in niches with black and white hexagonal patterned tiles; shower ambient LED strip lighting on a ceiling; custom barrier-free shower layout with built-in niche and two spotlights; built-in niche with a light strip containing towels wrapped in rolls and four jars of body care liquids

Storage & Lighting

Accessibility Features can not only be useful, provide safety, but also be an aesthetic addition to your bathroom.

Built-in niches, corner shelves, floating benches

for practical shower storage and seating.

Ambient LED strip lighting, recessed lights

Create the perfect atmosphere

Smart lighting control available

Enjoy convenience and flexibility

The square image is divided into four parts: the hand of an old woman holds onto the handrail near the chair; the girl's feet are on the floor with a square pattern; the holder is built into the beige tiled wall; a bathroom with grab bars for the disabled and a wheelchair.

Accessibility Upgrades

Accessibility Features can be not only functional and safe, although they can also add charm to your bathroom.

Low-threshold or curbless entry

makes your shower safer and easier to access.

Stylish grab bars, bench seating, slip-resistant flooring

provide comfort and added security.

Layouts suitable for mobility needs or aging-in-place

provide comfort and added security.

3D Visualization Will Help You Better Understand Your Idea!

We’ll guide you through every material and feature during your in-home consultation—complete with real samples and expert input, and computer graphics.

More About 3D Service

Wide-angle picture of full bathroom layout. In front, there is vanity with mirrors on the walls. A luxurious standalone bathtub sits beneath huge window and frameless glass shower enclosure. Bright white walls and light gray tile floors give airy feel.

Why Homeowners Across Ottawa Trust Be Leaf Renovation

A great shower starts with a great team.
At Be Leaf, we don’t just install showers — we build trust, comfort, and lasting value into every bathroom we touch.

Premium Shower Builders

We build premium custom showers for Ottawa homeowners — from spa-style master ensuites to fully personalized family bathrooms. Every shower is designed around your lifestyle, sized for your space, and built with materials that last decades.

Licensed,
Insured & Certified

Every installer is a fully trained professional.
We follow Ontario Building Code standards — and exceed them with craftsmanship you can see and feel.

Smart Features & Premium Materials

Heated flooring, LED-lit niches, smart shower systems, natural stone walls — we integrate luxury features into custom shower builds with full electrical and waterproofing planning from day one.

Schluter-Certified Waterproofing

Every custom shower we build uses Schluter-Kerdi waterproofing — the industry gold standard. No shortcuts on what you can't see later.

Workmanship Warranty That Means Something

We guarantee our work in writing.
If something’s not right — we make it right. No excuses, just results.

Enjoy High-Quality
Products.

We collaborate with reputable suppliers to get only materials of excellent quality. Our trained technicians provide incredible outcomes that you will enjoy for decades.