The following is an installation guide for fitting recessed storage niches into a stud wall in a wet room or bathroom. Whilst the process is straight forward, waterproofing it critical.

1. Plan the Niche Location

Before cutting anything:

• Choose a space between two studs (most are 400 mm or 600 mm centres in the UK).
• Ensure the niche height works with your tile layout, so you avoid awkward tile cuts.
• Check for pipes or cables in the wall.
• Many installers centre the niche around chest height in the shower (1000–1200 mm).

2. Mark and Cut the Opening

• Hold the niche against the wall.
• Mark the outline on the plasterboard or tile backer board.

Cut the opening using:

• Multi-tool
• Plasterboard saw
• Jigsaw (if boards are removed)
• Make the hole tight to the niche dimensions.

3. Install Timber Framing (If needed)

Even though niches often fit between studs, you usually need noggins (horizontal timber supports).

Add timber:

• Above and below the niche
• Screw them between the studs.
• This gives solid fixing points and prevents movement.

4. Dry Fit the Niche

Slide the niche into the opening.

Check:

• It sits flush with the wall board
• It is level and square
• Trim opening if required.

5. Fix the Niche

There are two common fixing methods:

Method A – Adhesive + Screws + Washers

• Apply tile adhesive or flexible construction adhesive around the framing.
• Insert the niche.
• Screw through the edge of the niche into the timber studs/noggins, using washers to stop the screw head pulling through the niche.

Method B – Foam Tile Backer Adhesive

• Some installers use PU foam board adhesive, CT1 or Fix MD type adhesive and sealant designed for backer boards.

6. Waterproof the Edges

This step is essential in wet rooms.

Use:

• Waterproof tanking membrane.
• Sealing tape

Typical products used in the UK:

• Mapei waterproof systems
• Self-adhesive waterproof tape

7. Tile the Niche

When tiling:

• Start with the back panel
• Then sides
• Then top and bottom

Tips:

• Slight fall (1–2 mm) on the bottom shelf so water runs out.
• Use tile trims for clean edges.

Pro tips:

• Use tile backer boards (not plasterboard) in wet areas.
• Always tank the niche even if it’s foam-core.
• Ensure the niche sits perfectly flush with the tile backer board.