1. WHICH BATHTUB TYPE?
The three main types of bathtubs include: freestanding, built-in and back-to-wall.
Freestanding Bathtubs
'As freestanding bathtubs are designed to be the sculptural focal point of a bathroom, they tend to work best in large bathrooms, where there can be a feeling of space all around,’ advises Yousef Mansuri, director of design, C.P. Hart.
Built-In Bathtubs
They may make less of a statement, but built-in bathtubs can be very practical, space-saving and cost effective, often slotting into a corner or niche. They typically have a rim for toiletries, unlike many freestanding designs which may require a side table or stool.
Back-To-Wall Bathtubs
While many manufacturers have introduced compact freestanding bathtubs in recent years, there is another option for smaller rooms requiring a dose of luxury and impact. ‘If you want the appearance of a freestanding bathtub with the space-saving advantages of a built-in version, there are designs such as the Duravit Luv back-to-wall, which curves away from the wall as if freestanding,’ says Martin Carroll, managing director, Duravit UK.
2. WHICH BATHTUB SHAPE?
Bathtubs come in a vast variety of shapes, all of which will have a different impact on the room. Curvaceous baths offer a lovely contrast to the straight lines of a boxy room, and are a good choice for a small bathroom as they take up less space visually, as do those that sit off the floor on feet.
3. CONSIDER BATHTUB SIZE
The typical standard length for a bathtub is 5ft/60in long or 2½ft/30in wide and 1ft+ tall; compact sizes – in both freestanding and built-in designs – are generally just under 5ft, with even smaller sizes, just over 4ft, available.
4. CHOOSE A BATHTUB MATERIAL
There are around eight common bathtub materials to choose from, all of which differ in appearance, weight and cost. ‘Acrylic is the cheapest choice, but not the most durable, while steel is good value for money, and sturdy,’ explains Howard Birch, director, Aston Matthews. ‘The manufacturing process for solid surface bathtubs allows for more unusual, contemporary shapes, while cast iron and copper make a strong design statement.’
5. THINK: FINISH
Whatever the material of the actual tub, consider the finish of its exterior as a way of adding extra glamor. From DIY options, such as tiling a bathtub, right through to bespoke cladding, the options are (almost) endless.
6. CONTEMPLATE COLOR OPTIONS
While white baths are the norm, colorful bathtubs are more popular than ever. 'I would urge you to consider the bathtub color for as long as you would the color of a new sofa: it's an expensive purchase that sets the tone for the rest of the room, so don't be swayed by bathroom trends,' says Lucy
7. CONSIDER THE POSITION OF THE BATHTUB IN THE ROOM
Bringing all of these considerations together, lastly, think about your bathtub's position, and if the shape, material, size and so on suits its placement.