There’s more to choosing a bathtub than meets the eye: it’s not just about the perfect soak, it’s about finding a style that fits your space, your habits and the overall vibe you want for your bathroom space. If you’re torn between the sculptural beauty of a freestanding tub and the everyday practicality of a built-in, this guide will help you weigh the pros and cons of each.
Freestanding tubs are the showstoppers of the bathroom world. Standing independently on the floor with all sides exposed, they instantly draw the eye and often become the focal point of the room. Sleek, modern oval or traditional clawfoot, designers love them for their incredible range as there’s a shape for every aesthetic.
One of their biggest perks is placement flexibility. If your layout allows, you can position a freestanding tub almost anywhere, from beneath a skylight to the centre of the room. Plus, installation tends to be straightforward: most models simply require plumbing hookups, making the process less complex than building a framed surround.
Yet that eye-catching presence comes with trade-offs. Freestanding tubs tend to cost more due to their complex construction and heavy materials (cast iron models may even require floor reinforcement). They’re great for soaking but less practical for shower combinations, and their lack of built-in ledges limits storage without added accessories. Their larger size and height can also make entry, exit, and cleaning more difficult.
Built-in tubs are the classic choice: practical, space-saving and easy to integrate into most bathrooms, regardless of size or shape. Sitting snugly against one or more walls, they’re an excellent choice for smaller spaces and perfect for an efficient tub-shower combo.
When it comes to pros, built-in tubs offer a lot: less expensive, easier plumbing and everyday functionality, with more accessible storage. Plus they’re easier to clean since there are fewer exterior surfaces and hidden spaces.
As far as the cons go, where built-ins fall short is in design flexibility. You’re more constrained in terms of placement and shape; installation can also be more complicated, often requiring structural framing, sealing or tiling; and while they can still look beautiful with a thoughtfully designed surround, there is less of a Wow factor than with a freestanding model.
It all comes down to your priorities. If you want a striking, spa-like focal point and have room to spare, a freestanding tub offers unmatched style.
If you’re working with limited space, prefer a shower-tub combination, or value practicality and easy maintenance, a built-in is likely the better fit.
Whichever option you choose, remember: the best bathtub is the one that works best in your space and suits your lifestyle.
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