The Elegant And Comfortable Free Standing Bathtub Is Coming Of Age

Aquatica's Tranquility Heated Japanese Bathtub. — Aquatica’s Tranquility Heated Ofuro Japanese Bathtub is made for seated soaking. The design … [+] incorporates a built-in seat and the depth of the tub has been extended to 24.25” (61.5 cm) to ensure full body immersion for even 6ft (180 cm) plus bathers. The interior ergonomics of this bathtub is all directed to providing effortless comfort and support.

Photo courtesy of Aquatica

Bathtubs have come a long way from the earliest known ones over 6000 years ago. They have morphed from public baths to the commonly used built-in ones in the early 1900s. Although the free standing tubs have been around for many years, recently the more elegant claw foot and other freestanding bathtubs have become much more in demand. Over the last several years available designs, materials, colors, sizes and features have grown substantially. There are options such as head and back rests, lights, multiple colors and finishes (matte or glossy), circulating water, and more. Deeper models are available to prevent overflow and also totally submerge the body. The tubs come free-standing and wall-adjacent for tighter spaces.

This industrial looking freestanding tub is set in a supporting metal frame. The rectangular shape of the frame shows off the gentle curves of the tub. — This industrial looking freestanding tub is set in a supporting metal frame. The rectangular shape … [+] of the frame shows off the gentle curves of the tub.

Photo courtesy of Duravit

Once there was only cast iron tubs and then the lighter acrylic ones became popular. Today there are newer, more efficient materials, such as composites, as well as wood, enamel, fiberglass, natural stone and copper.

“Home owners and designers are definitely trying to phase out large built-in bathtubs which take up too much space,” according to Goran Stankovic of Aquiticabath. Contemporary freestanding bathtubs are becoming more popular since they are regarded as the centerpiece within modern bathroom design. Goran says “The most popular freestanding tubs in 2019 were compact models which could fit different types of bathroom applications. Customers have been trying to save space by tearing out old bulky bathtubs and clearing up more space for small deep bathtubs.” His company offers options such as air-jetting, chromotherapy. body sprays and heating systems which help to maintain the warm water in the tub.

A freestanding contemporary tub by WETSTYLE.

Photo courtesy of WETStule

Japanese soaking tubs are becoming increasingly popular. They are very relaxing, comfortable and attractive. They allow for a full body soak while maintaining a small footprint in the bathroom. These are available in a variety of materials including traditional wood.

Claw foot tubs continue to be popular in more traditional bathrooms. However, they are becoming less popular as many homeowners are switching to more contemporary models.

A clawfoot traditional style free tub by Kohler.

Photo courtesy of Kohler

Although tradition in nature, this claw foot tub is available in fashion forward colors.

Photo courtesy of Kohler

There are several advantages to freestanding tubs. There is a reduced installation cost and they can be located anywhere in the room, even in the center. In addition, built-in models require some sort of platform or alcove, which can be costly and are not required on free standing models. Some baths, such as claw foot and those in frames, make it easier to keep the area around and under the bathtub clean. In addition to being esthetically attractive and available in a multitude of styles, many of the freestanding bathtubs are extremely comfortable. The one disadvantage, is some models can be pricey, however they are non-the-less luxurious and spa-like.