Primary Bath Remodeling Tips: Luxury Bathtubs

Your primary bath is probably the most personal space in your home. In fact, the primary bath is the second most common renovation new homeowners undertake, right behind the kitchen when it comes time to personalize their new home. Undertaking a bathroom remodeling can be both challenging and exhilarating. You'll be faced with a number of choices from flooring to tile, to layout and design.

One choice that can go a long way toward creating the perfect spa-like atmosphere is your bathtub. If you have the space for a standalone tub, there are a number of luxurious styles to choose from that can help to define your entire design aesthetic.

Two major factors will need to be taken into account when choosing the perfect bathtub for your primary bath remodel; available space and budget. Let's explore some of the different styles of luxurious stand-alone tubs available for your primary bath remodel.

Clawfoot Bathtubs

Clawfoot bathtubs have been around for over a century. In the past, they were available in only a few sizes and were originally made of cast iron and enamel. However today, the demand for this charming style has exploded and manufacturers are producing many new styles and sizes to fit almost any décor. Traditionally, clawfoot tubs were used predominantly to create a more vintage feel in the bathroom. Today, manufacturers are creating clawfoot tubs that are at home in every style from vintage or traditional to modern or even industrial bathrooms.

Traditionally, along with the distinctive “claw feet”, these tubs had one end that was reclined allowing you to relax and lay back as you bathe. The opposite end of the tub held the faucet. Today you have choices including larger double “slipper” tubs which have both ends reclined. Faucets can be mounted in the center of the tub or on the end, wall mounted or even in the rim. Materials include enameled cast iron, acrylic, and even hammered copper.

Pedestal and Freestanding Primary Bath Tubs

Pedestal tubs are designed to be freestanding. That means you can place them anywhere in the room, even in the center. As long as you've plumbed in drainage. Pedestal tubs are available in a wide range of styles and materials. They can be molded in one piece from the rim to the bottom of the pedestal. Others are designed to be placed onto a decorative base. Pedestal tubs can be made from acrylic, cast iron, stone, copper or wood.

A pedestal tub can create a design statement in any décor from traditional to modern, old world to rustic even eclectic. If you're looking for a more vintage look, you can find classic Victorian slipper style, double slipper, rolled rim and dual end tubs. For a more modern look, there are many different styles of contemporary freestanding tubs available.

Soaking Tubs for the Primary Bath

Soaking tubs are among the most luxurious choices you can make for your primary bath. A soaking tub is typically deeper than some of the other choices. Standard tubs hold about 14” of water. Soaking tubs are usually 18 – 22 inches deep allowing you to enjoy a therapeutic full-body soak in the comfort of your home. Soaking tubs are available in a number of different shapes and sizes including rectangular tubs, round tubs, slipper and double slipper styles. They are a great option if you are looking to create a specific look.

Soaking tubs are available in a wide range of materials including cast iron, acrylic, copper, stone and wood. Soaking tubs are a perfect focal point in a modern bathroom and are available in a number of colors to fit any décor.

Slipper Bathtubs

Slipper tubs refer to the shape of the tub. It consists of a raised reclining side so you can comfortably lay back and relax as you bath. This shape is designed to helps take pressure off of the back and neck as you relax in the tub. Slipper style tubs are available in clawfoot, soaking, and pedestal styles. Pedestal versions are available as a single unit, or styles are available that fit on a base. A double slipper style is perfect for two people to bathe at the same time. Both ends are raised to allow bathers to relax and enjoy some quality private time together.

Slipper tubs are available in a variety of materials including acrylic, cast iron and wood. They can be painted any color to fit any décor, and are available as long as 80-inches long and up to 34-inches wide to ensure a truly luxurious and relaxing bath.

No matter what your available space or budget, there is a beautiful stand alone tub available that can set the style of your entire space. The best option is to work with your designer or contractor and get out to see some tubs. You have a wide variety of choices among many of these different styles. For example, clawfoot tubs are available with polished chrome, brushed nickel, black matte, oil rubbed bronze and more. Pedestal tub bases can be ornate, or simple. You can include jets, lighting, sound and more. The best solution is to see them in person before you decide. With a little research, you can find the perfect tub style to create the spa-like primary bath you've been dreaming of!

Forward Design Build Remodel is a residential design-build firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan that is known for its commitment to craftsmanship and communication. We are committed to improving our neighbors quality of life with inspired design and creative remodeling. Our homes are highly functional, exquisitely beautiful, and remarkably comfortable. Contact us to speak with an expert about your new home or remodeling project.