Hi Denali

Originally we had a 60" x 32" fiberglass shower/tub combo unit. When it was removed, we saw that there was over 6" of "dead space" that had been framed in to accommodate the 60" fiberglass unit. By removing that, we were able to increase the size of the replacement tiled shower to 66" x 36". That then led us to decide there would be enough space to do a long rectangular bench, rather than a corner one, which we felt was much more user-friendly and practical. We decided to make it 12" deep and 35" wide, which needed to be custom built.

Our tile contractor did the whole thing. The bench began as a a wooden slab that was attached to wall studs, then redguarded on all sides, and finally tiled on all sides. It is rock solid yet comfortable to sit on. It is slightly angled so that water runs off of it into the shower.

For people who don't choose to sit while showering, the bench is a nice place to keep a towel and sit while drying off.

I added some more pictures of the shower to my photobucket link. Holler if you have any more questions!

Here is a link that might be useful: Hall Bath Reno with Safe Shower

Clarification: He framed the bench in wood and then built the "slab" with cement board. Then it was red guarded and tiled.

Thanks so much for the information, Coolbeans. I really like your bench we only have a 60 " area and since DH removed the tub already, I can see that we have no hidden surprises.I agree about the corner bench. Thank you for sharing your photos. I loved the way the bathroom turned out.