Why Curbless Showers Are One of the Smartest Bathroom Upgrades You Can Make
There’s one thing we’re all going to have in common eventually—we’re not getting any younger. And when it comes to bathrooms, the way they’re built can either make life easier or make it a lot more complicated and even scary as you age. That’s where curbless showers come in.
No step. No tripping hazard. Just a clean, modern design that also makes life safer and more accessible.
Hi, I’m Charlie with Armada Design and Build in Belleview, and today we’re talking about why curbless showers are one of the smartest choices you can make for your bathroom—whether you’re planning for aging in place or you just love a sleek, modern look.
What Is a Curbless Shower?
Let’s start with the basics. A curbless shower is exactly what it sounds like.
Instead of stepping over a curb or lip to get into the shower, the shower floor is built level with the rest of the bathroom floor. The tile slopes gently toward the drain so the water flows where it’s supposed to, but there’s no awkward transition and no step to trip over.
You’re essentially walking straight into the shower. Smooth. Barrier-free. It works great for kids, grandparents, and everyone in between.
Why Curbless Showers Matter for Aging in Place
Here’s the reality: falls in bathrooms are one of the leading causes of injuries as people age at home. Sometimes even a four-inch curb can become a real obstacle when mobility starts to change.
A curbless shower removes that risk.
They’re wheelchair accessible, easier for caregivers to assist with, and much safer overall because there’s no step to catch your foot on. And here’s the best part—you’re not sacrificing design to get that safety.
In fact, curbless showers often look more modern than traditional showers. It’s an upgrade in both form and function.
Design, Materials, and How Everything Ties Together
A curbless shower isn’t just about removing the curb—it’s about designing the whole bathroom to work together.
Many clients pair curbless showers with floating vanities. They create clean lines, make the space feel more open, are easier to clean underneath, and can be more accessible for seated or wheelchair use if needed down the road.
Tile plays a big role too. Large-format porcelain tile is extremely popular because it minimizes grout lines and helps create that seamless, continuous look from the bathroom floor into the shower.
Glass is another key element. Frameless glass enclosures keep the space feeling open and airy. Some homeowners even skip doors altogether and go for a wet-room style design.
Hardware has come a long way as well. Handheld showerheads, grab bars that actually look stylish—not like hospital equipment—and linear drains instead of traditional center drains all help make the shower safer and cleaner looking. Linear drains allow for a single slope instead of a compound slope, which is especially helpful for mobility and stability.
What Does a Curbless Shower Cost?
Let’s talk numbers.
A standard shower remodel typically starts around $15,000 and can go up to $25,000 or even $30,000 depending on tile choice, size, and complexity.
A curbless shower usually adds about $3,000 to $5,000 to that cost. That increase comes from the specialized waterproofing, drainage, and precise slope required to do it correctly.
But that extra investment pays off in a big way—accessibility, resale value, and peace of mind. Whether you’re thinking about kids, aging parents, or your own future mobility, it’s an upgrade you won’t regret.
When you work with Armada Design and Build, we source all cabinetry, tile, and fixtures in-house. That means competitive pricing and a smoother process without running all over town to different showrooms.
A Real-Life Example
We recently finished a bathroom for a couple right here in Belleview who are planning to retire in their home. They wanted something modern and beautiful, but also functional for the long term.
We installed a curbless shower with a linear drain, slip-resistant tile, and paired it with floating cabinetry. The finished space looks like something out of a spa, but it’s designed to be safe and usable 20 years from now.
That’s the magic of a curbless shower—it’s practical and beautiful at the same time.
Is a Curbless Shower Right for You?
If you’re thinking about remodeling your bathroom, a curbless shower should absolutely be on your list to consider. Whether it’s for aging in place, easier everyday use, or simply achieving a cleaner, more modern design, it’s one of those upgrades you’ll thank yourself for every single day.
At Armada Design and Build, we create homes you’ll love—from bathroom remodels to full renovations and new construction. Our team makes the process simple and stress-free.
Visit our showroom to explore designs and schedule your consultation. Let’s plan a bathroom that’s safe, stylish, and future-ready.
Armada Design and Build. Building your tomorrow today.
