Is Your Bathroom Ready for a Walk-In Shower? Olympia Remodel Tips

Walk-in showers are one of the biggest bathroom remodeling trends we’re seeing in 2025—and for good reason. Homeowners in Olympia, Lacey, and across Thurston County are saying goodbye to outdated tubs and bulky enclosures and opting for sleek, low-threshold showers that offer both form and function. These modern setups are easier to clean, more accessible, and make any bathroom feel brighter and more spacious.

But before you start tearing out tile or ordering fixtures, there are a few things to consider to make sure your bathroom is a good candidate for a walk-in shower. In this post, we’ll walk you through the trend, design and waterproofing essentials, costs, and a real before/after story from a recent remodel right here in Olympia.

Why Walk-In Showers Are Trending in 2025

The bathroom isn’t just a utilitarian space anymore—it’s a personal retreat. Homeowners are investing in spaces that feel spa-like while also being practical and accessible. Walk-in showers check all those boxes.

In 2025, more of our clients are prioritizing:

• Accessibility: Whether planning to age in place or just making everyday life easier, walk-in showers are ideal for those who want barrier-free access.

• Modern aesthetics: With clean lines, glass doors, and custom tile or solid surface panels, they instantly update the look of a bathroom.

• Increased home value: Buyers today expect modern bathrooms, and walk-in showers are high on the wishlist.

A walk-in shower also makes a smaller bathroom feel bigger. Without the visual obstruction of a tub or curtain, the room feels more open and airy—something homeowners in older homes around Olympia especially appreciate.

Design Factors & Waterproofing Basics

Designing a beautiful walk-in shower is more than picking out tile. The structure and layout of your current bathroom can play a big role in what’s possible—and what’s recommended.

At Mountain Peak Construction, we start every bathroom remodel with a full assessment of:

• Drain and plumbing location

• Floor structure and slope

• Wall framing and waterproofing conditions

Proper waterproofing is the foundation of a successful walk-in shower. Skipping this step or cutting corners can lead to mold, rot, or water damage down the line. We use Wedi waterproofing systems or solid surface wall panels, both known for durability, performance, and total moisture protection.

Don't overlook the small details—ventilation, lighting, and built-in shelving (like recessed niches or corner shelves) all contribute to a shower that not only looks great but works well for daily use.

Budget Ranges & Popular Layouts

Let’s talk numbers. The cost of a walk-in shower remodel in Olympia usually falls between $9,000 and $30,000, depending on:

• Square footage

• Material choices (tile vs. solid surface)

• Whether plumbing needs to be moved

• Level of customization

Here are three of the most common walk-in shower layouts we install:

1. Tub-to-shower conversions

Ideal for homeowners who rarely use the tub. This layout involves removing the bathtub and replacing it with a shower pan and surround, often paired with sliding or fixed glass doors. It’s a great way to modernize without a full gut job.→ [Learn more about our tub-to-shower remodel services.]

2. Curbless barrier-free showers

Perfect for aging-in-place or anyone wanting easy access. These showers eliminate the curb entirely, creating a seamless transition from the bathroom floor to the shower.→ [Explore our accessibility remodel options.]

3. Custom full-width walk-in showers

These often span wall to wall and feature bench seating, hand-held fixtures, and high-end finishes. They’re popular in primary bathrooms where homeowners want a luxury, spa-like experience.→ [See examples of our high-end bathroom remodels.]

Whether you’re looking for a basic update or a custom spa-style upgrade, we can tailor your walk-in shower remodel to your budget and goals.

Olympia Remodel Highlight: Before & After

One of our favorite recent projects was in the Westside Olympia neighborhood, where the homeowners were tired of a cramped, outdated tub-shower combo. The space had poor lighting, hard-to-clean grout lines, and an awkward layout.

We transformed the space by removing the tub and installing a walk-in shower with large-format wall panels, matte black hardware, and a custom glass door. The homeowners also opted for a floating bench and a niche shelf to keep shampoo and soap off the floor.

The result? A space that looked twice as big—and functioned twice as well.

They told us afterward, “It feels like we added 20 square feet to our bathroom, and we didn’t even change the footprint.”

Can Your Bathroom Support a Walk-In Shower?

You might be wondering, “Can my bathroom even fit a walk-in shower?” The good news is that most standard bathrooms can, especially if you're converting an existing tub. Some layout tweaks may be needed, but we've done hundreds of these conversions in Olympia, Tumwater, and Lacey.

We often hear from clients who were unsure at first but were thrilled with the result once they saw what was possible. Even in tight spaces, there are creative solutions—corner entries, sliding glass, and wall-mounted fixtures help maximize square footage without sacrificing comfort or function.

Ready to Explore a Walk-In Shower for Your Bathroom?

A well-designed walk-in shower adds convenience, value, and beauty to your home—but only if it’s done right. At Mountain Peak Construction, we take the time to plan every remodel with care, using only trusted materials and licensed professionals who know what Olympia homeowners need.

If you’re curious about layouts, pricing, or whether your bathroom is a good fit for a walk-in upgrade, we’d love to help. Schedule a bathroom design consultation today, and we’ll guide you through your options—from simple conversions to custom builds.→ [Book your consultation here.]

Mountain Peak Construction | Bathroom Remodeling in Olympia, WA Proudly serving Thurston, Mason, and Pierce counties. Locally owned. Quality guaranteed.