Freestanding bathtubs are more than just a place to wash. They are the centerpiece of a luxurious bathroom, a personal spa right in your own home. These beautiful tubs turn a standard bathroom into a relaxing getaway. From classic designs to modern statements, here are some fantastic freestanding bathtub ideas that may work for your space.
An impressive freestanding tub can dramatically elevate the value and look of any home, instantly increasing its value and curb appeal. Boasting a fantastic combination of style and comfort, freestanding tubs make the ideal focal point in both small and large spaces alike, creating peaceful spots just for yourself. Let’s take a look at some great ways you can use a freestanding tub!
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1. The Deep Soaking Tub: Your Personal Oasis
Deep soaking tubs offer true relaxation. Allowing you to fully immerse in the water, covering both shoulders and neck, they offer luxurious soaks in no time at all. Thanks to their compact size, they fit easily into any number of locations. Truly transformative relaxation awaits in an exquisite deep soaking tub!
Though you might assume these tubs are only appropriate for large spaces, many models feature a relatively compact footprint. This makes a deep soaking tub an excellent addition to a central bathroom; you can place it anywhere within your space, from the center of the room for a grand look to a corner for saving space. A deep tub offers both relaxation and rejuvenation after long days. You could add a tub caddy for books and candles for even greater relaxation!
2. The Vintage Clawfoot Tub: Timeless Charm
Vintage clawfoot tubs bring timeless charm and classic elegance to any bathroom, having been popular choices for over a century. Known for their ornate feet and high back design, clawfoot tubs make a statement piece in any bathroom and often serve as the focal point. A clawfoot tub can become the showstopper!
This style works well with various looks; pair it with a classic black and white bathroom for an eye-catching, clean feel; use one with wood floors and soft colors to create a cozy country style space; or bring vintage clawfoot tubs into the mix to give an old tub new life with some paintwork!
3. The Midcentury Modern Tub: Clean Lines, Bold Style
Midcentury modern design is all about simple shapes and clean lines. A midcentury modern tub reflects this perfectly. These tubs are often rectangular or have a smooth, oval shape. They are simple but stunning.
These tubs are a great fit for a modern bathtub ideas list. Their sleek form stands out against tile or stone walls. You can pair a simple white tub with a black wall-mount faucet. This creates a bold, contrasting look. This style is about making a statement with minimal design. It shows that sometimes, less is more.
4. The Combination Tub and Shower: The Smart Solution
Many homeowners appreciate the aesthetic appeal of freestanding tubs, but also require shower capabilities. A combination tub and shower gives homeowners the best of both worlds: a ceiling-mounted showerhead above the tub with an enclosed or curtained enclosure to prevent splashes of water from escaping the enclosure.
Small bathrooms that include tubs can benefit significantly from this innovative idea. You don’t have to sacrifice luxury when trying to save space with this freestanding tub and shower combo. You can still take full advantage of your bathtub space for quick morning showers or long evening soaks. This is, and it’s an effective strategy for optimizing a smaller bathroom design!
5. Sunken Freestanding Tubs: A Modern Trend
Sunken tubs make a bold design statement in any space, giving it a high-end, custom aesthetic. Place a freestanding bathtub on a low platform to achieve this illusion of submergence that seems to disappear into the floor beneath you.
Sunken tubs bring peace and serenity into a room by creating an effortless flow throughout. They work best when added to a large main bathroom featuring freestanding tubs; their addition brings sophistication that few other features can match. You can further elevate this look by surrounding the tub with stone or tile as an additional touch of luxury. The effect is clean and modern!
6. The Small-Space Tub: Big Luxury for a Little Room
You don’t require a huge bathroom to enjoy a freestanding tub. Many companies now manufacture tubs specifically designed for small spaces, often featuring narrow and deep tubs that provide sufficient floor space without occupying too much of your bathing experience.
One of the key considerations when selecting a small bathroom bathtub option is choosing a high-backed slipper tub that allows for relaxation and comfort. Compact oval tubs also work well and fit neatly into corners. By opting for a freestanding tub with shower functionality, a small bathroom can still feel luxurious!
You can learn more about how to fit a freestanding tub in a Small Bathroom on our blog.
7. Copper and Brass Tubs: Warmth and Character
Consider opting for a copper or brass tub for an eye-catching accent in your bathroom. These unique tubs are pieces of art; their metal finish adds warmth and rustic charm, while copper tubs will develop their own distinct patina over time.
Copper tubs make an impressive statement in farmhouse or industrial chic bathrooms, serving as the focal point of any space and reflecting light to add some natural elements that add an organic vibe. Plus, choosing this metal-clad bathtub speaks volumes about craftsmanship! This choice goes far beyond being just another bathtub idea list item; it shows genuine commitment.
8. The Japanese-Style Soaking Tub: Zen and Serene
Japanese-style soaking tubs emphasize simplicity and depth, with tubs typically shorter and deeper than standard versions. This design allows bathers to sit upright while soaking, creating an enjoyable and peaceful experience.
“Ofuro” tubs are specifically designed to bring total relaxation. A Japanese-style tub fits well into modern or minimalist bathroom designs, especially small spaces; its clean lines help create a zen atmosphere and make an excellent addition to anyone who desires an enjoyable bathing ritual experience.
9. Minimalist Oval Tubs: A Sculptural Statement
A simple, minimalist oval tub is a piece of art. Its smooth, clean lines make it a beautiful sculpture in the room. The design is understated but powerful. It brings a sense of calm and order to the space.
This style of tub is often made from a single piece of stone or acrylic. It looks great against textured walls or patterned tiles. The clean shape allows the freestanding tub to be the star. You can use this tub as a focal point. It creates a sleek, spa-like feel. This is a top choice for a modern bathtub ideas list.
10. The Wooden Freestanding Tub: A Natural Element
Wood bathtubs bring an earthy and rustic charm to any bathroom, adding warmth and character. Common materials for these tubs include teak or cedar woods that naturally resist water damage.
Wooden tubs make an elegant statement of eco-friendliness or rustic design, adding texture and warmth to a room with lots of natural light and plants. A wooden bathtub adds a unique texture, providing depth and dimension. A wooden bathtub may even stand out among your bathtub ideas as an unexpected choice!
How to Choose and Install Your Freestanding Tub
Choosing the right freestanding bathtub can feel overwhelming. Here are a few things to consider to make the process easier and to fill the gaps we identified.
Understanding Materials
- Acrylic: The most popular choice. It’s lightweight, easy to clean, and holds heat well. It is also the most affordable.
- Cast Iron: Very durable and heavy. Cast iron tubs hold heat for a long time. They come with a higher bathroom remodel cost and are difficult to move.
- Stone Resin: A mix of stone and resin. It’s heavy and feels high-end. It holds heat well and is durable. It’s a great choice for a sculptural, modern tub.
Plumbing and Placement
- A freestanding tub needs special plumbing. Your choices are a wall mount faucet or a floor-mounted one. A floor-mounted faucet is a popular choice for a tub placed in the center of the room. A wall mount option works well for tubs placed near a wall.
- You will need a professional plumber to install it. They will need to run the water supply and drain lines. Make sure to discuss the placement of the tub early in your design.
- For the drain, you can choose a simple push-button style or an overflow drain. You can also explore options to unclog bathroom sink drains for a related topic.
Finalizing Your Bathroom Design
- Think about the color palette of your bathroom. A white tub is a blank canvas. It can work with any color. A bold, colored tub can become the room’s main feature.
- Your flooring is important. Tiles that provide some grip are a good idea. Heated floors are a great luxury with a freestanding tub.
- The tub feel is all about the little things. Add a nice bath mat, some shelves for candles, and a plant. These small details make a big difference.
You can also learn about how to Replace a Bathroom Faucet in our other helpful guides.
Conclusion
A freestanding bathtub can make a dramatic statement about you and your home, adding value and comfort. There are endless freestanding tub ideas out there; whether it’s a classic clawfoot tub, a modern oval, rustic wooden tubs, or something in between! Find your ideal one now.
Choosing the right tub is a big step. It’s best to have a solid plan. For professional help with your project, contact San Diego Home Remodeling. We provide a full range of bathroom remodeling services in San Diego. We can help you bring your dream bathroom to life.
FAQs about Freestanding Bathtubs
Are freestanding tubs hard to clean?
No, most freestanding tubs are easy to clean. Acrylic tubs, for example, have a smooth surface that wipes down easily. Since they are not attached to a wall, you can clean all around them.
Do freestanding tubs hold heat well?
This depends on the material. Cast iron and stone resin tubs hold heat very well. Acrylic tubs hold heat better than steel tubs but not as long as cast iron.
Can you put a freestanding tub in a small bathroom?
Yes, you can. There are many compact and narrow models available. Tubs with a high back or a Japanese-style design are great for saving space.
What is the average cost of a freestanding tub?
The cost can vary a lot. A basic acrylic tub can start at a few hundred dollars. High-end stone or copper tubs can cost several thousand dollars. Installation costs should also be factored in.
What is the main difference between a freestanding tub and a drop-in tub?
A freestanding tub stands alone on the floor. It is a single piece. A drop-in tub is placed inside a pre-built frame or deck. A drop-in tub is not a statement piece on its own. It is part of the larger structure.
