It seems no Cape Cod home is complete without an outdoor shower. Coming home from the beach with sandy feet and wind-strewn hair and heading straight for it is a summer delight. For some of us, the structure involved is little more than a wooden fence, set up without fanfare. But an outdoor shower can be a place to have fun with design or try a new eco-friendly product. It’s your shower; make it sing. —Molly Newman

When Chelsea and Pat Winslow were planning their outdoor shower in Wellfleet, Pat was inspired by a round shower his parents had when he was growing up. They searched Google images and came across a snail shape that intrigued them. Pat’s father, Eric Winslow, drew a pattern, and they built it without too much difficulty. Chelsea’s one requirement was a shelf for her succulents. She waters them when she showers, creating her own little oasis. (Photo Chelsea Winslow)

In Provincetown, Agnes Mittermayr uses a solar-powered shower to save energy. She found a sunny spot and built an enclosure. She simply hooks it up to the hose, and it fills up with water, to be warmed by the sun. After a day at the beach, it’s the perfect temperature for a rinse-off. (Photo Agnes Mittermayr)

Diane Longchamps loves repurposing salvaged items, and her shower is no exception. She found an old door and built a frame around it, laying bricks for the floor and making a nautical statement with a buoy. (Photo Diane Longchamps)