Its a big job, but definitely has to be framed in the walls and anchored properly and then tile around and they are sturdy enough to sit on.

I don't have a floating bench but I recommend to look at 'How to install a shower floating bench' online. There are many YouTube. This should give you confidence on the sturdiness. It looks to me that if you can fix the bench on both side, you should not be worry.

Also, any bench that is fixed in place can block a person in a wheelchair from entering the shower. A movable bench is more practical.

Good point live_wire_oak. I never thought of that (I like said I don't have one). To make the bench less of a box, I would make the base slightly smaller than the top. It is also more comfortable since you can bend to sit as you you can bend your knees more than 90 degrees.

This is one example. I would probably recessed the base just a little more (maybe 0.5 to 1 in. smaller). Notice that the base is a darker color. I think it makes ii looks even smaller.

I agree 100% with what Chispa wrote. Had a boxed bench in a previous home’s bathroom. Found it uncomfortable to sit on. Also, are we really sitting in our showers for any length of time? It’s not like soaking in a tub where you can read or drink a glass of wine while doing it. I used the shower’s bench to prop my leg on to shave, and that’s about it. I’d just as soon have a removable teak bench as Chispa suggested.

I do not like fixed benches in showers and often those and niches are the places leaks happen I like a folding teak bench it allows it to be removed if 2 people want to use the shower and leaves no place for water and grunge to collect.

There's nothing inherently wrong or unsanitary about a floating bench. The bench must start at the design stage. Stainless supports must be tied to the wall framing before cement board and waterproofing is installed.

I have had several built-in shower benches. PITA. I much prefer my teal bench. And when hubby had broken foot bones we could take it out and put safety one in. So another vote against built in of any kind.

Cleaning the underside of a floating bench is no fun. It's just plain awkward. If you want a built-in fixed bench, make sure it has a skirt that meets the floor and is not recessed.

Check this out. Very nice system. Www.hollspa.com. I have one to put in a shower remodel. Done with tile and the failed pan install that leaked to main floor....and the tile/grout maintenance......so moving to solid surface with this floating bench.

@pattn1 are you happy with this bench?