Choosing the Right Bathroom Bathtub Design for Your Bathroom

Whether renovating an old bathroom or building a new one from scratch, choosing the right bathtub is one of the decisions that most directly impacts both the look and feel of the space. With so many different shapes, aesthetics and materials to choose from, it can be hard to know just where to begin! So we are here to make it easier. There are three popular choices dominating the market: acrylic baths, stone baths and freestanding bathtubs. Understanding the benefits of each, including budget, layout and lifestyle, and what each design can bring to a space will help make the decision easier.

Acrylic Baths: Where Practicality Meets Style

Acrylic baths are a staple in modern bathrooms, and for good reason! Striking the perfect balance between style, affordability and performance, the bath is made from layers of acrylic sheets reinforced with fiberglass, these tubs are lightweight yet durable. To break it down: they are family-friendly, come in a wide range of designs won’t break the bank.

• Acrylic baths are both affordable and accessible. They are generally less expensive than stone alternatives, making them a great choice for mainstream renovations and budget-conscious projects.
• Thanks to the flexibility of the material, acrylic tubs are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes. From a classic built-in bath to a more contemporary design, coming in nearly every shape your kids can name, there’s a design for everyone.
• Unlike metal or stone, acrylic is warm to the touch. This means it doesn’t draw away body heat, so the water feels warmer for longer, meaning you can have a relaxing bath for longer or don’t have to top up the hot water at bathtime.
• The smooth, non-porous surface is easy to maintain, resisting staining and is simple to clean with mild bathroom cleaners.
• While acrylic can scratch more easily than harder materials, many scratches can be buffed out if they are superficial.
• For those with young children and more rigorous usage, some lower-end acrylic tubs may feel less solid underfoot than heavier stone options.

If you need a stylish tub that is also practical and durable, an acrylic bath is for you!

Best For

• Tight budgets: Acrylic tubs offer excellent value.
• Smaller bathrooms: Built-in acrylic tubs make efficient use of space.
• Minimalist design: Nothing is sleeker than a clean-lined acrylic tub.
• Low maintenance: Acrylic wins for easy cleaning.

Freedom With Freestanding Bathtubs

Freestanding bathtubs are less about what they are made of and are instead defined by their placement, visual impact and freedom in design. These tubs are designed to stand alone, not constrained by walls and alcoves, creating a sculptural focal point in the bathroom. This frees up the rest of the space for the rest of your design desires.

• An absolute statement piece, a freestanding tub instantly elevates the look of a bathroom, evoking luxury and spa-like ambience.
• Because they don’t need to be sandwiched between walls, freestanding baths have flexible placement. This means you can position them in creative layouts, even in the centre of the room if it strikes your fancy.
• When made from quality materials, freestanding bathtubs have the same staying power as stone, meaning they can last for years.
• Coming in a variety of styles, from deep Japanese-style soaking tubs to sleek modern silhouettes, there’s a design perfect for every bathroom.
• These tubs are best suited to larger bathrooms where there’s room to show them off without crowding the space. If square footage isn’t yours to spare, this may not be the option for you.
• Since plumbing needs to meet your bath where it’s placed, specific plumbing access may be required. Routed from the floor rather than the wall, installation may require additional planning and services.

If you love the idea of a bathtub that’s as much an art piece as it is a functional fixture, a freestanding bathtub will shine in your space.

Best For

• Premium investment: A freestanding unit made from quality materials will last for years.
• Larger areas: Freestanding tubs shine in roomy layouts where they can be featured prominently.
• Modern spaces: A contemporary freestanding tub is basically art sculpture in your bathroom. It doesn’t get more modern than that.
• Statement design: Nothing says “wow” like a beautifully-shaped freestanding tub.

Stone Baths: Providing Luxury and Longevity

Stone baths are the centrepiece of a space, bringing a sense of luxury to any bathroom. Crafted from high-end materials such as marble, limestone or engineered stone composites, they bring a level of sophistication and natural beauty that’s hard to match. Each stone tub is unique, with a timeless elegance with natural veining and colour variations that add character and luxury.

• With thermal properties, stone holds heat exceptionally well, keeping bathwater warmer for longer, ideal for leisurely soaks and more time to better admire your luxury space.
• High-quality stone is incredibly resilient, durable and long-lasting. With proper care, it can last for decades, maybe even be a family heirloom.
• Lastly, they are just plain gorgeous.
• Stone baths come with a premium price tag, both for the material and installation. But with girl math and cost per wash with how long a properly cared for stone bath can last, that dollar amount isn’t so crazy.
• Stone tubs are heavy and may require reinforced flooring, a very important factor to consider during the planning phase.
• The price of quality isn’t just cost, it’s also in maintenance. Some natural stones are porous and may need sealing to protect against water stains and etching. Always check manufacturer recommendations. That being said, a properly last stone bath can last years.

For those seeking a striking centrepiece that combines long-lasting beauty with superior performance (with some money to spare) consider browsing stone baths.

Best For

• Premium investment: Nothing has the durability of stone.
• Larger areas: Stone designs shine in roomy layouts where they can be featured prominently.
• Natural luxury: Stone baths deliver warmth and richness.
• Long-term durability: Stone can last generations with proper care.
• Everyday comfort: All can be comfortable, but stone retains heat best for long soaks.

Installation Tips

No matter which material or style you choose, remember to:

1. Check flooring support: Heavy tubs like stone and large freestanding models may need reinforced flooring.
2. Measure Carefully: Ensure your chosen tub fits well without overwhelming the space.
3. Coordinate Fixtures: Match finishes on taps, showerheads and accessories to create a cohesive design.

A bathtub choice will influence both the function and feel the space for years to come. Going through the pros and cons, acrylic baths offer versatility and cost-effectiveness, stone baths bring luxury and durability and freestanding tubs provide unmatched visual impact. Whether you prioritise comfort, timeless beauty or bold design, there’s a perfect tub out there for your home.