Niches, also known as built-in shelves, have become increasingly popular interior design features for their ability to blend functionality and style. These recessed spaces in the wall offer practical and sleek storage for your things, providing an aesthetic solution in any room of the home. Originally used in bathrooms, niches have evolved into versatile decorative elements that can be applied to living rooms, kitchens, bedrooms and hallways.
Want to add stylish, functional and attractive built-in wall spaces to organise your products or ornaments?
We tell you everything you need to know. Read on!
Bathroom niches offer a number of advantages that make them an ideal option for both interior design professionals and installers. First, they optimise the available space by providing additional storage without taking up floor space. As they are recessed into the wall, they free up space in showers and bathtubs, making the bathroom feel more spacious and tidy.
From an aesthetic perspective, niches can complement any style of decoration. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach with clean lines and homogeneous materials, or something more decorative with integrated lighting, niches can be tailored to your specific needs. Plus, they are easy to clean, as there are no external elements to accumulate dirt and moisture.
There are two main types of niches: prefabricated and custom-built. Prefabricated niches are quicker to install than custom-built niches, as they come ready to fit, reducing labour time and avoiding extensive masonry work. On the other hand, custom-built niches generally require more time and money due to the need for additional materials and skilled labour for construction, plastering and finishing, which can delay project completion.
Another advantage of prefabricated niches is that there is a wide range of designs and sizes available, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your space needs and aesthetic preferences. This means they can be reused or relocated to other spaces with relative ease, which is not possible with the custom-built niches once they have been installed.
In terms of materials, stainless steel is an excellent choice because of its durability and corrosion resistance. This material is not only elegant with a contemporary and sophisticated finish, but it is also hygienic and easy to clean, preventing the accumulation of dirt and bacteria.
Choosing the right dimensions and depth is crucial to the design of an effective niche. In the shower, a standard measurement is 60 cm wide by 30 cm high, with a depth of about 10 cm. These dimensions may vary according to available space and specific storage needs. It is important to consider the thickness of the wall to achieve a versatile solution that combines functionality and style. This is where Euroniche HNF can come in, offering flexible options to adapt to different preferences and architectural settings. It can be installed in three different ways, adapting perfectly to your needs and style:
The niches can be horizontal, offering ample storage space, or vertical, ideal for storing tall bottles of shampoo and conditioner. They can also feature a door for the integration of tiles, for almost perfect concealment, such as the Euroniche HC-CERAMIC, or simply to keep the toilet brush out of sight, such as the Euroniche H/PRE.
The choice between horizontal or vertical orientation will come down to the overall bathroom design and personal preferences.
The placement of the niches is a determining factor for their functionality and aesthetics. In the bathroom, the most common areas are the shower and bathtub, where they are most practical for storing personal hygiene products. However, niches can also be installed in other areas of the bathroom, such as above the toilet or on side walls, offering additional storage solutions without taking up space.
Outside the bathroom, niches can serve as a decorative element in living rooms, hallways and kitchens. In the living room, they can be used to display books, plants and ornaments, adding depth and dimension to the wall. In the kitchen, they are handy for storing spices and utensils, keeping the space organised and visually attractive.
The customisation of niches makes it possible to create unique spaces that reflect the personal style and functional needs of each home. LED lighting is a popular addition that not only improves visibility, but also creates a cosy atmosphere. However, in this case, the niches can only be incorporated horizontally, not vertically. The LEDs can be subtly concealed to provide a soft glow, highlighting the texture and colour of the niche.
Installing a niche could be a project for experienced DIYers, and although our prefabricated niches make the job much easier, we recommend relying on a professional to ensure an optimal result. Waterproofing is a crucial step, especially in wet areas such as the bathroom. Using a waterproofing membrane and properly sealing all joints will prevent leaks and moisture problems in the long term. Our Eurosheet Waterproof.5 is ideal for this step.
Maintaining niches is relatively simple. Their recessed design reduces the accumulation of dust and dirt, while the materials used, such as stainless steel, are easy to clean.
Niche installation projects can vary widely in design and application. A notable example is the use of niches in small bathrooms, where every centimetre counts. In a recent renovation in Barcelona, niches with integrated LED lighting were chosen, which not only improved the functionality of the space, but also added a modern decorative element.
In another project, a minimalist-style living room was transformed with the addition of several niches. These not only provided additional space for books and decorative objects, but also created a sense of depth and spaciousness in the room.
In kitchens, niches have been used to optimise the storage of spices and utensils while maintaining a clean and organised aesthetic. The versatility of these elements means they can adapt to any décor style, from the most modern to the most traditional.
Niches offer a storage and decorating solution that can transform any space in a home. Their adaptability to different styles and needs makes them a popular choice among installers and interior designers. With the right combination of materials, dimensions and placement, and their easy installation and maintenance, niches can enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of any room, optimising space without taking up floor area. From bathrooms and kitchens to living rooms and hallways, these built-in shelves are a valuable and versatile addition to interior design.
At Euroshrink, we offer a wide range of niches in various sizes and for different functions, lending any space a combination of practicality and elegance. You can explore all your options by visiting the Euroshrink niches website.
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