How to Build a Recessed Bathroom Niche

Studs are the skeleton of your bathroom, but the space between them is often wasted potential. A recessed niche transforms that hollow gap into a clean, seamless storage solution that keeps shampoo and soap off the floor while giving your shower a custom, high-end look without needing extra square footage. Building one requires precision, but the process is straightforward if you respect the structure. The secret to a long-lasting niche isn't just the carpentry; it's the waterproofing. Done well, your shelf will be perfectly square, fully watertight, and a permanent part of your shower wall.

1. Find Your Wall Opening. Use a stud finder to locate the two studs framing your desired area and mark them clearly with a level. Draw a rectangle between the studs, ensuring you leave at least one inch of room on all sides for the framing you will install later.
2. Expose the Wall Cavity. Use a drywall saw or an oscillating multi-tool to cut along your marked lines. Remove the section of drywall to expose the wall cavity.
3. Support Then Cut Studs. Measure the desired height of your niche and cut the existing studs at those marks. Use a reciprocating saw to carefully slice through the wood, but be careful not to damage the drywall on the opposite side of the wall.
4. Pitch the Bottom Shelf. Construct a box using 2x4 lumber that fits snugly between the studs. Secure the box by screwing through the existing studs into the frame using deck screws.
5. Secure the Backer Board. Cut waterproof cement board to fit the back and sides of your new frame. Attach the boards using cement board screws, ensuring all seams align perfectly.
6. Seal Every Seam. Apply a high-quality liquid waterproofing membrane over all seams and joints of the backer board. Once dry, you are ready to tile the niche.