Design Experts Absolutely Adore Jennifer Lopez's Daring Bathroom Feature

Jennifer Lopez might be known primarily for her decades-long music and acting career, but she's also earned a reputation as quite the style icon. While most of these inspiring looks are in the realm of fashion and beauty, she's no stranger to a bold interior design choice, either. In a May 2023 Instagram reel, Lopez shared a bit of her makeup routine using her recently-launched cosmetics line, JLo Beauty, and keen observers couldn't help but notice one striking feature in the bathroom of her $50 million mansion: a shower window.

For many, the bathroom is a space where privacy is the top priority, often at the expense of a more open and airy feel. This is totally understandable, but in what's often such a small room, natural light can go a long way, even if it's just a splash from an elevated window in the shower. It might seem a bit scandalous at first mention, but there are plenty of ways to incorporate a shower window without veering into voyeuristic territory.

The major draw of incorporating a shower window is bringing some natural light into an often-cramped and dim space, especially if you have a windowless bathroom. This can make the design of the room feel more open and breezy, and it can also bolster your morning routine. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, natural light, especially in the morning, can help with depression, issues sleeping, and seasonal affective disorder. 

Additionally, a shower window gives you the opportunity to make the most of your surroundings and take in the outdoors when you're not otherwise distracted by your screens or daily tasks. "A window in the shower will brighten and give the illusion of a larger space. It can add an elevated decor element to the design of your bathroom. It's a delightful way to appreciate a gorgeous view," said interior designer Janna Robinson in an interview with Homes & Gardens.

A shower window is a great idea if you're looking to spruce up your bathroom, but it also comes with a bit of risk. If you want to avoid feeling exposed when you're taking a shower, there's one major factor you need to consider: height. Typical windows usually sit with the bottom sill around 2 to 3 feet from the floor, but if you want to reap the benefits of seeing out without having others see in, you need to increase this measurement. Installing a smaller window that sits higher on the wall will ensure the shower still feels private without being closed in. For an added layer of security, interior designer Mohammed Ahmed recommends incorporating some texture to help obscure the view.

"If the bathroom is on a higher floor or in an area where privacy isn't a major concern, a window in the shower can be a lovely feature," Ahmed said in an interview with Homes & Gardens. "Alternatively, you can use frosted or textured glass to maintain privacy if you're on the ground floor or near neighbors."