12 outdoor shower ideas from rustic to semi-luxury!

At our summer cottage, the garden is one big open space waiting to be converted into a series of 'rooms'. I have so many dreams of how to make the most it, from flowerbeds and a vegetable patch, to an outdoor kitchen and hot tub. But where to start? 

I know exactly where! One of my biggest dreams is to be able to shower under the open sky. For those of you living in warmer climes maybe this is something you enjoy often. In Scandinavia, where the weather can be, shall we say, temperamental, it's something of a luxury! 

But wherever you call home, isn't the idea of washing off the sand from the beach surrounded by bird song or, if you live in the city, showering away the stresses and strains of the day in the evening sun wonderful?

Here are 12 outdoor showers I am using as inspiration for our summer cottage, some rustic, some more substantial! Do you have a favourite? 

The unshielded shower 

Sometimes, it's enough just to make use of what you already have, a tree, the garden wall, side of the house, or a simple shower surrounded by greenery!

Sometimes, it's enough just to make use of what you already have, the garden wall, side of the house, or a simple shower surrounded by greenery! 

The semi-shielded shower

This type of shower uses the structure you already have - whether it'a the side of the house or a garden fence, but also includes an added section to create an L-shaped space.  Notice how the soil directly beneath has been dug out and replaced with simple pebbles, topped with a small wood decking for comfort. 

The shower above uses an upturned pot for towels and other items. 

I love the use of a wooden ladder to hang towels.

A bench provide s a nice spot for shower gel, a lantern and other bits and pieces. 

Here a section between the main house and guesthouse has been used as an outdoor bathroom complete with a bench, hooks and wind-chime for the ultimate in relaxation! 

The private shower

While it's lovely to be able to see the shower from a distance, you might also value some privacy - in which case these ideas might be more your style! 

A spiral structure is great for stand-alone showers - while the lovely natural wood blends in with nature and serves as a place to hang towels. Here are some dimensions to follow if you're thinking of building something similar. 

This stand-alone shower has a full structure more like a cubicle - with space for a small bench and towel hooks. 

This structure makes clever use of the garden fence to create an ivy covered alfresco shower. 

I love the idea of an outside mirror - it's taking the outdoor bathroom idea to the next level! Plus it will reflect the surrounding nature and sunlight! Whether you go large or small (like the mirror below) is up to you! Both are lovely though! 

I hope you've enjoyed this round-up! Is there a style that stood out to you in particular? 

Are you thinking of building an outdoor shower this spring? If so, check out this DIY guide by Better Homes & Gardens. 

There are a variety of outdoor showers available online from off-grid solar to fully plumbed hot water. I'll let you know which one I find for our garden when we get nearer the time. 

Maybe you already have an outdoor shower? If so, please do share your tips and experiences with us! 

You can find more outdoor bathroom inspiration here today: 

16 beautiful outdoor bath and shower ideas

10 summer cottages with inspiring outdoor spaces

An idyllic swedish summer cottage with outdoor shower and kitchen

Stor kram! 

Niki

1. Dwell 2. anon 3. AAL design 4. Birgitte Wolfgang Bjørnvad / Bolig  5. Frederikke Heiberg / Femina 6- 9 Anon.10. Birgitte Wolfgtang Bjørnvad / Bobedre 11. Employee shower at the Grounds for Sculpture 12. Sibella Court