A freestanding bath can be a luxurious addition to any bathroom, instantly elevating the space with its unique design. However, before diving into this stylish upgrade, it’s essential to consider whether a freestanding bath is the right choice for your bathroom.
In this article, we’ll explore the key factors to help you decide whether or not a freestanding bath is something you should look into.
What is a Freestanding Bath?
A freestanding bath is a bathtub that stands independently and is not attached to any walls. Unlike built-in tubs, which are integrated into the bathroom structure, freestanding baths are fully finished on all sides and can be placed anywhere in the bathroom, provided there's enough space and proper plumbing.
Freestanding baths are often chosen for their aesthetic appeal, adding a luxurious and elegant touch to the bathroom. They come in various styles, including modern, traditional, clawfoot, and pedestal designs, and can be made from materials like acrylic, cast iron, or stone.
Types Of Freestanding Baths
- Clawfoot Baths: These are traditional freestanding baths with feet resembling claws shaped like animal paws. They have a vintage appeal and are often made of cast iron with a porcelain enamel coating.
- Pedestal Baths: These baths rest on a pedestal or base rather than feet, giving them a more modern, sleek appearance. The base is often integrated with the bath, creating a solid, grounded look.
- Slipper Baths: This style features a higher back on one or both sides, creating a comfortable position. The raised end provides support for the bather's back and neck.
- Double-Ended Baths: Both ends of the bath are gently sloped, allowing two people to bathe comfortably. The taps are usually positioned in the centre to avoid disrupting the seating area.
- Boat or Skirted Baths: These baths have raised sides that resemble a boat's hull or a graceful curve, often with a smooth, seamless appearance. They can be dramatic and striking in design.
- Japanese Soaking Tubs: These are deep, compact tubs designed for soaking rather than lying down. They are often shorter in length but deeper than standard baths, allowing for full submersion.
- Stone or Solid Surface Baths: Made from materials like natural stone or composite solid surface materials, these baths are heavy, durable, and offer a luxurious, sculptural look.
- Acrylic Freestanding Baths: Lightweight and versatile, acrylic baths can be moulded into various shapes and sizes. They are often more affordable and easier to install.
- Cast Iron Freestanding Baths: Extremely durable and heavy, these baths retain heat well. They often feature a porcelain enamel coating and have a classic, timeless appeal.
What’s The Difference Between a Normal Bathtub and a Freestanding Bath?
A normal bathtub is typically installed often between three walls, with the outer side exposed or covered by a matching panel. This design makes it more submerged into the bathroom’s structure, creating a seamless and practical look.
The plumbing and fixtures are usually concealed within the walls, contributing to a clean and simple look. Normal bathtubs are often chosen for their space-saving qualities and practicality, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms.
In contrast, a freestanding bath stands independently and is finished on all sides, allowing it to be placed anywhere in the bathroom where plumbing permits. Unlike normal bathtubs, freestanding baths are designed to be a statement piece, offering a luxurious and elegant look that can enhance the overall aesthetic of the space. They come in various styles, such as clawfoot, pedestal, or slipper designs, providing more design flexibility.
However, freestanding baths generally require more space around them to allow their design and may involve additional plumbing work, especially if placed away from walls. This can make them more expensive to install.
Freestanding baths are often chosen for larger bathrooms where they can serve as a central focal point, creating a spa-like atmosphere. They offer a sense of luxury and are perfect for those looking to make a bold design statement in their bathroom.
Installation and Plumbing of Freestanding Bath Compared to a regular tub
Installing a freestanding bath is generally more complex than installing a regular tub. The plumbing must be carefully planned, as the pipes are typically exposed and should complement the overall aesthetic of the bathroom. This might involve additional costs, such as specialised faucets or freestanding bath fillers, which can be pricier than standard fixtures.
Moreover, because freestanding baths are not attached to a wall, they often lack the convenient storage space that built-in tubs provide. You might need to invest in additional bathroom furniture or storage solutions to keep your bath products accessible.
Freestanding Bath Cost
Freestanding baths generally come with a higher price tag than built-in tubs, both in terms of the unit itself and the associated installation costs. However, they can also add significant value to your home, especially if you are aiming for a high-end bathroom design. The visual impact and the luxurious feel they provide can make them an investment if you’re looking to create a statement bathroom.
How Much Space Do I Need for a Freestanding Bath?
While a freestanding bath can add a touch of luxury, it’s important to consider the space available in your bathroom. These tubs typically require more room than built-in models, both for the tub itself and for the clearance around it.
Ideally, you should have at least 12 inches of space on all sides of the bath to allow for easy cleaning and access. If your bathroom is on the smaller side, a freestanding bath might overwhelm the space, making it feel cramped and less functional.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a freestanding bath is a decision that should be made with careful consideration of your bathroom’s size, layout, and personal needs. If you have the space and budget, and you’re aiming for a bathroom that shows luxury and style, a freestanding bath could be the perfect choice.
However, if practicality, storage, or accessibility are higher priorities, you might want to explore alternative options.