bud: The shower is about 5 feet x 5 feet. Why won't we like it with the shower head above the bench? kgwlisa: I meant cement board. Our bench won't be moveable and the controls and handheld will be at least 4 feet away. Having the fixed bench was a last minute decision which is now causing a problem. We do plan grab bars. heimert: I'm not sure how the showerheads are going to work. Your idea sounds good. I've left a message with the builder to have the plumber give us a call.

When doing a tub deck that also becomes a shower bench, the slab needs to have a seam under the glass. That way the tub deck can be level, but the bench section can be installed with the proper slope so that water drains off of it. This requires precise math, and excellent framers, and stone fabricators. It’s easy to get wrong. In a large bath, adding the second handheld by the bench, on a separate valve, makes a lot of sense. No cold bench that way! That leaves the main head for most quick showers, and you still have a handy hose for shampoo rinsing. A portable bench makes the most sense for someone needing physical assistance. Unfortunately, most portable shower benches are not that sturdy, and can actually lead to slips and injuries. That’s why the fold down benches are more popular for those needing assistance. The wood bench dogged into a wall is an interesting idea. How well it would work would lie in the waterproofing details and the detail of how it dogs into the wall.

Looking for end of bed bench

Oncape and Kendra--thanks for your thoughtful comments. Oncape, the reason for the cabinet behind the sofa was to "hide" the back of the sofa, which is not a very interesting first look upon entering. And the console table won't work behind the chairs (which must face the TV) because they are recliners. Kendra, I agree with holding off on a coffee table for now. Just like a recent Design Dilemma poster commented--I have "hit the wall and have Design Decision Overload"! I'll finish the entry way & call it good for a few months. I'm still considering a bench, and the second bench was my favorite also. **I so appreciate ALL comments, suggestions and even criticism. There have been some very good ideas that I understand & agree with. But--this room has been very difficult to arrange so it works for us two almost 80 year old seniors. We just want to sit in our recliners & watch TV, LOL! . And, of course, it's important to me that the overall look is attractive, put together and welcoming.** Now, having said all that, I'm still open to other opinions and ideas!