In every bathroom, there should be a feature element. It could be something simple in a small space like a painted wall or a particular tile on the floor. But if you truly want to experience a high-end bathroom you can choose to go with something bigger.
Since buying a freestanding tub is a serious purchase we'll explain the different styles, materials and forms of freestanding bathtubs.
Bathtub Styles
Clawfoot: This is probably the one feature of bathtubs that everyone recognizes. It’s a tub that’s elevated off the ground with clawfoot supporting it. It’s a familiar style and works well in both older homes as well as modern dwellings.
Pedestal: To add a touch more refined, add a pedestal tub to your home. It sits directly on the base, sometimes on a plinth of stone or directly on the floor. It is able to suit both long and narrow or short and deep bathtubs. A pedestal tub can help elevate the tub higher if you need a tub with easier access.
Whirlpool/Air Bubble: On the high end of luxury tubs, the whirlpool or air bubble tub makes you feel like royalty. It comes with built-in jets along the wall and the floor of the tub. You can select models that have lights, glass sides, or even built-in TV screens.
Bathroom Materials
Acrylic: This is a common choice that helps with whatever you want the bathroom to be. If you’re seeking the ultra-modern look than you can’t go wrong with an acrylic tub. They are easy to find, easy to install and come in a wide variety of styles to suit what you choose.
Copper: Hammered copper tubs are exceptionally bold and they make a strong statement about your bathroom. They come in a wide variety of styles as well, and they are easy to maintain. They might suit those wishing to replicate something they’ve seen overseas such as the Japanese soaking tubs or a rustic English tub look.
Cast Iron: Most suited to the restored look, these bathtubs are sturdy and easy to install wherever you need them. They often come with clawfoot stands to build on that older style.
Concrete: Concrete freestanding tubs offer a stunning aesthetic that enhances bathroom appeal. In contrast to other tub materials, concrete tubs retain heat, enhancing the comfort of your soaking experience. Durable for long-lasting beauty and nearly indestructible.
Stone: To truly lift your high-end bathroom game, try a carved stone bath. They are heavy with some of them easily weighing over 2000 pounds, so your floor needs to accommodate the bathtub, but the payoff is immense. A carved tub can be the centerpiece of not only your bathroom, but it can anchor an entire style of home.
Bathtub Forms
So, as you design your bathroom, you can go two directions. You can either pick the tub of your dreams, the freestanding tub that will make the room stand out, the tub that will define your goal of a high-end bathroom. Pick the tub first and make the room match this feature element. Or you can plan your bathroom with a certain style in mind. You can work with the existing materials and color scheme and style, and there will be a freestanding tub to match your design. If you want ultra-modern, you can choose a freestanding air bubble bathtub. If you’re more familiar with the rustic farmhouse look, a clawfoot or hammered copper tub would really stand out.