Despite the growing popularity of bathroom designs promoting aging in place through walk-in showers and accessible tubs, freestanding bathtubs still provide elegance for homeowners and retain popularity as well. A free-standing tub can become a statement piece, making bathrooms feel larger, and promoting a sculptural feel in a master bathroom. Mansion Global spoke with interior designers from across the globe about what designers can to accent and highlight a freestanding tub in bathroom design.
Consider the Tub's Style "I love using more simplistic, clean, modern tubs in more traditional bathrooms rather than a typical claw foot, as it brings a new, fresh feeling to the room. I like tubs that have a subtle curve to them to soften up a bathroom. Nothing too modern, nothing too traditional," U.S. and London-based designer Birgit Klein of Birgit Klein Interiors said.
Think About the Entire Space "Freestanding tubs can work in many different types of bathrooms. The key is to make sure they work with the proportions of space," Phillip Thomas of Phillip Thomas Inc. in New York said. "It's important to have ample space around at least three sides of a freestanding tub. This way, it feels like a sculpture or piece of furniture and less like a utilitarian object."
Let the Space Determine the Style "I tend to specify freestanding tubs in larger bathrooms because that allows me to delineate the space in a more dynamic way, adding interest and drama that a typical built-in may not offer," Jenny Kirschner, principal of JDK Interiors in New York, said. "You'll want to be sure the finishes of the tub, sinks, and toilet(s) are all coordinated. If you plan to stay in the white-color family, I would recommend using the same white finish throughout the space. A freestanding towel rack can also be a useful accent."