Guide to choosing shower columns for your bathroom

Shower columns have become absolute protagonists of modern bathroom furnishings thanks to their versatility, functionality and ability to transform even the smallest spaces into truly wellness corners. Increasingly appreciated not only for their aesthetic appearance - linear, elegant, minimal or more refined depending on the model - but also for their ease of use, they represent a complete solution that integrates the shower head, shower head and mixer into a single element. They are ideal for bathrooms of any size: in small bathrooms they optimize the space avoiding bulky installations and ensuring a complete shower system without the need for invasive work; in large bathrooms they allow you to create one or more shower areas that enhance the environment.

To choose the right shower column, it's important to evaluate several factors, such as the overall style of the bathroom, available dimensions, materials, and finishes, which can impact aesthetics, but also comfort thanks to support surfaces, seating, adjustable jets or hydromassage functions. Without forgetting the ease of cleaning and maintenance, an often overlooked aspect but essential to ensuring a long life for the product.

In this article we offer you all the useful tips to choose the shower column that best suits your bathroom and a selection of the best Novellini models, designed to combine comfort, functionality and aesthetics in one solution.

What is a shower column and how does it work?

A shower column is a complete, pre-assembled system that offers not only water delivery function but also elegant design, advanced features and comfort. In practice, it is a vertical panel that is installed on the wall and integrates all the necessary components inside: a main showerhead (usually large and rain-effect), a manual hand shower connected with a flexible hose, any side jets for hydromassage, controls for mixing the water and, in the most advanced models, a thermostat for precise and simpler temperature control.

The functioning of a shower column is simple but much more sophisticated than the old traditional systems. Hot and cold water comes from existing connections and enters the column, where a mixer allows you to precisely adjust the desired temperature. Once mixed, the water is diverted to the various outlets: the upper shower head, the hand shower or the side jets, depending on what you select via the integrated controls. 

The shower column was created to offer a more comfortable and safe experience. The large, fixed showerhead ensures a consistent, enveloping flow, transforming the shower into a relaxing ritual, while the manual showerhead is perfect for rinsing targeted areas and cleaning the shower enclosure and area. More advanced models also include adjustable side hydromassage jets, designed to massage the back, shoulders and hips and relieve muscle tension.

From an aesthetic point of view, the shower column is a design element that can completely transform and renew the appearance of the bathroom. Available in various materials (such as stainless steel, chromed brass, anodized or painted aluminum, acrylic in different colors to match the shower tray), it is perfectly suited to modern, minimalist, classic or industrial styles. It is designed to simplify installation while minimizing masonry work: many models connect directly to existing brackets without the need to break the tiles or redo the system. In other cases the design is designed to cover previous attachments by including all the laces inside.

Shower column: which model should you choose?

Choosing the right shower column means knowing and carefully evaluating the features and functionality of the different models on the market. The offer ranges from the most essential solutions to true multifunctional shower columns, designed to offer a spa experience even at home. Understanding the differences well will allow you to make an informed purchase that suits your needs. Among the most common types of shower columns we find:

minimal shower column: this is the simplest model. It generally includes a vertical rod, an upper showerhead (rain or standard) and a hand shower. The design can still be taken care of, with matte chrome or black finishes that give a more modern touch. It is perfect for those who want to renew the appearance of the shower without doing too invasive interventions.

Hydromassage shower column, which integrates adjustable jets that spray pressurized water on specific body parts, such as the back, hips, and shoulders. These jets create a real massage effect, dissolving muscle tension, and stimulating the skin, improving circulation. Typically these columns have a rain showerhead and shower head, as well as dedicated controls for activating the jets. They are perfect for those looking for a complete wellness experience at home, but require plumbing with good pressure.

Multifunction shower column: combines all the previous features in one compact and design system. It typically includes a large showerhead (often rain or waterfall effect), hand shower, hydromassage jets, thermostatic mixer, and diverter to choose the type of delivery. This type of column is designed to transform the daily shower into a true personalized wellness ritual. The price naturally rises, and installation requires care, especially to ensure the correct pressure and flow rate of the system. But for those who want a complete relaxation experience, it is the ideal choice.

What aspects should be evaluated before installing a shower column?

Before choosing and installing a shower column, it is essential to carefully evaluate various practical and technical aspects. One of the main elements to consider is the compatibility of the plumbing system: it is important to check the available water pressure, because many models - especially those with hydromassage require a constant minimum pressure to operate properly. If your home has a water system with low or irregular pressure, you may need to intervene on the system or opt for shower columns designed to work effectively even with reduced pressure. Similarly, check the arrangement of hot and cold water connections: many modern columns are designed for standard connections, but in older bathrooms you may need to adapt or move them.

Another important aspect is the actual space available. It's essential to take precise measurements of the wall intended for installation, the usable height (especially if the showerhead is wide or height-adjustable), and the width of the enclosure: a column that's too bulky could make movement during the shower uncomfortable or even avoid entering the intended space. Multifunction models, for example, often require a few extra centimetres to accommodate the jets. If your bathroom is small, you could opt for a slim column, more compact and linear but still elegant. The installation height must also be carefully evaluated to ensure comfort for all users, taking into account that shower heads that are too high or low can be uncomfortable.

The quality of materials not only affects the price, but also the ease of maintenance. Stainless steel is one of the most popular choices: resistant to corrosion and limescale, it cleans easily and maintains a bright, modern look for a long time. It's perfect for those looking for sturdiness and minimal style, like Novellini's Revif and Revif plus columns. Chromed brass is another quality option: elegant, durable and less prone to oxidation, like Easy 2 shower columns.

Among Novellini columns you can find different models, from the most minimal like F to the hydromassage ones like Z, made of anodized or painted aluminum. Then there are columns made of acrylic, which can be combined with the same finishes with shower trays. Beware of very cheap models that use ABS plastic or low-quality materials: although lighter and easier to install, they can yellow over time, deteriorate upon contact with limescale, or have poor solidity. Evaluating materials means investing in a product that will last for years, reducing the need for frequent replacements or maintenance.

The style of your bathroom also plays an important role in choosing the shower column. A modern or minimalist bathroom goes well with clean-lined columns, anodized aluminum trim, and matte white or black. If your environment is classic, you may prefer glossy chrome finishes instead. Also consider the other elements of the bathroom: faucet, tiles, shower enclosure. A column in tune with the rest of the furniture enhances the overall appearance of the environment. It's not just about aesthetics: choosing a product that perfectly suits the style of your space means making your bathroom more welcoming.

Novellini shower columns: design and tailor-made solutions for your bathroom

Novellini shower columns offer design solutions capable of transforming and enhancing the look and experience of using your shower. Thanks to a simple mounting on the wall or in the corner, they represent true furnishing complements that combine technology, essential aesthetics and advanced ergonomics. The result is a bathroom with a clean, elegant, contemporary look, a space that, in addition to being functional, becomes a corner of personal well-being.

The strength of Novellini shower columns is the ability to combine a refined, minimalist design with cutting-edge functionality. Each model is designed to ensure daily comfort and maximum customization, thanks also to the quality of the materials and attention to detail. The equipped versions offer a Spa experience right in your home thanks to the built-in hydromassage, large shower heads and the possibility of choosing configurations tailored to every space need. The essential design enhances the bathroom environment with clean lines, quality materials and a wide choice of finishes capable of adapting to any style, from the modern minimal to the most elegant and sophisticated.

Among the best shower columns in the Novellini catalogue we find the models of the Line series, versatile solutions and carefully curated down to the smallest details. Made of high-quality aluminum, they feature a design by Marco Pellici that enhances their simplicity and elegance. They can be installed both on the wall and at an angle, perfectly adapting to even small bathrooms. The integrated showerhead provides a wide and enveloping jet, while the equipped structure allows for the best organization of the spaces, creating a practical but always refined environment. They are the ideal choice for those seeking a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality.

Another iconic model is the Dress column, designed for those who want to indulge in a truly complete and personalized shower experience. Here too, the installation is on the wall, but the plus is the version with an integrated seat, which transforms the shower into a fully-fledged wellness corner. 

For those who prefer a classic and minimal style but do not want to give up quality, the Easy column combines simplicity and robustness. Made of chromed brass, it is designed for wall installation and stands out for its timeless elegance. The integrated showerhead offers a pleasant, enveloping jet, while the equipped structure allows you to make the most of the available space. 

Finally, the Revif shower column represents the proposal for those looking for a product that combines functionality, resistance and contemporary design. Made of polished stainless steel with a super mirror finish, this equipped column is a true design object, capable of capturing light and giving the bathroom a modern and sophisticated look. Wall-mounted, it features a sleek, wide showerhead that ensures a smooth, relaxing jet. The highest quality stainless steel ensures resistance to moisture and limescale, reducing the need for maintenance and ensuring a long life over time. 

Discover all the available configurations and choose the perfect Novelli model to transform your shower into a moment of pure daily pleasure!