can you sketch out a 2d drawing of the space and post in a comment? I'm not sure I understand your layout.

Benjesbride, Yes here is our current layout as it relates to the tub. Basically the fiberglass shower/tub unit is usually put in a space the length of the tub. But in our case, the unit has a false wall at the end, with the sink and toilet behind it. We're trying to figure out how to best rebuild that false wall, and specifically what to do at the top area above the unit, whether to go all the way to the ceiling or leave a portion open.

Just build a simple, full height wall.

Laura, Thanks for the suggestions. We considered those options originally, but it didn't fit our budget. We need a tub for the kids. This is our sole bathroom (and it's on the first floor) and we're using the opportunity instead to rough in for a half bath upstairs in this old 1890s house.

Since it's hard to tell from the photos in the midst of remodel, here's a before photo that show the current 3/4 wall at end of tub.

I agree add a full wall. I might also consider moving the sink to the left of the door in the empty space next to the tub and add a built in storage solution along the new full wall where the sink is.

Rorah, Thanks for your input. Yes we are actually planning on moving the sink next to the door. We're currently debating between towel racks and storage by the toilet. We do have another area where the plumbing vent pipe comes through the room near the washer/dryer that we plan to put storage around.

What application are you using to develop this sketch?

Katrina, my husband did it in excel.

I understand about sticking with budgets. What kind of exhaust fan do you have? If you put one over the shower area and add an automatic humidity timer, that may help with ventilation problems. I'd go for the post at the corner to add stability to the whole thing, especially if the exhaust fan option is to go directly through the wall instead of up through the ceiling and out to the wall.

With a washer and dryer in the room, ventilation is important.

Try the online Ikea bathroom planner if you want an easier, more powerful planner than Excel.

Apple Pie: We just put in a Panasonic exhaust fan with a timer but no humidity sensor. Old house limitations meant the only place we could run it out between the joists was just in front of the tub, but to the right of it. I'll add the photo below and see if I can get it to come through. This is why we wondered about doing the post instead of the full wall, so that more air can reach the fan from the shower.

I keep trying to add the before photo and it doesn't come through. Here's another try.