A Shower Paradise
This custom aquarium in a bathroom setting, designed and installed by Aqua Creations in a house on the beach in Manasquan NJ, serves as a striking centerpiece. Featuring one main viewing panel in the shower and another in the adjacent walk-in-off-the-beach sitting room, the aquarium brings the serenity of an underwater world into the home. As the family returns from a day at the beach, they can unwind with a luxurious 16-head shower aquarium, complete with intricate tile work. Surrounded by the vibrant beauty of a living reef ecosystem, this marine aquarium creates a truly immersive and enjoyable experience.
Design Considerations for an Aquarium in a Bathroom
Installing an aquarium in a bathroom presented us with unique design challenges and specific technical requirements to ensure the longevity and functionality of the shower fish tank. Here is a selection of the factors our aquarium experts took into consideration when designing and installing this reef-style shower aquarium:
- Humidity and Ventilation
Bathrooms are naturally humid spaces, especially with a large shower area like in this project. Proper ventilation is critical to prevent moisture buildup, which can damage the bathroom aquarium’s structural components and surrounding millwork. Our aquarium installation technicians installed high-efficiency exhaust systems to manage humidity levels, ensuring both the aquarium and bathroom stay moisture-free. - Waterproofing and Insulation
Since the aquarium is integrated into the shower, waterproofing is crucial. The wall and floor areas around the fish tank in the bathroom had to be properly sealed to avoid leaks or water damage. Additionally, specialized insulation was used to prevent condensation buildup on the shower aquarium’s exterior surfaces. - Filtration System Location
In this particular project, all filtration and maintenance equipment are concealed in custom-built millwork in the sitting room adjacent to the shower. This hidden system ensures seamless access for maintenance of the aquarium without detracting from the bathroom’s sleek design. Thoughtful space planning allows for easy accessibility while keeping the equipment out of sight. - Temperature Control
The proximity of the aquarium to a shower can expose it to fluctuating temperatures. To counter this, a temperature control system is crucial in any bathroom with an aquarium. Aqua Creations incorporated advanced heaters and chillers to maintain a stable aquatic environment, safeguarding the health of the reef fish and coral. - Lighting and Electrical Safety
Proper aquarium lighting is essential for sustaining marine life, but it also needs to be carefully planned in a wet environment of a bathroom. Aqua Creations installed waterproof lighting fixtures with safety measures to protect against moisture-related electrical hazards, while also enhancing the ambiance of the bathroom fish tank. - Structural Support
Aquariums, especially large marine setups, are heavy due to the combined weight of water, rock, and equipment. Structural reinforcements were added during the aquarium design phase to ensure that the flooring and walls could support the weight of the aquarium in the shower without causing damage over time.
Aquarium in a Bathroom: A Perfect Blend of Design and Function
This project highlights the artistry and technical expertise involved in creating a fully functional, visually stunning aquarium in a unique space like a shower room. By addressing these design factors, Aqua Creations was able to deliver a one-of-a-kind aquatic experience that enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the home. Contact us to find out how we can design and build a custom aquarium in the bathroom to upgrade your home.
