Concrete bathtubs offer a unique look that brings a touch of nature into the bathroom. Their solid, sculptural forms and raw, organic texture provide a nice contrast to sleek porcelain or acrylic tubs. Concrete tubs come in a wide range of styles, from minimalist modern forms to more ornate vintage reproductions. The material is very versatile, allowing for personalized shapes, colors, and finishes. Read on to explore the many possibilities with concrete bathtub ideas for a natural, earthy look that feels refreshingly different.
Benefits of Concrete Bathtubs
Concrete bathtubs provide a number of advantages that make them a top choice for many homeowners:
- Natural, organic look: The raw, mottled texture of concrete gives it an earthy, imperfect beauty reminiscent of stone or weathered wood. This provides a nice contrast to the perfect smoothness of acrylic or porcelain.
- Versatility: Concrete can be molded into any shape and form, allowing for rounded, curvaceous, or geometric tubs. The material takes color easily, so tubs can be tinted or painted in any hue.
- Durability: Properly treated and sealed concrete is extremely long-lasting and more scratch-resistant than some materials. With proper care, concrete tubs can last for decades.
- Affordability: Concrete is generally more affordable than materials like stone or copper, while providing a similar natural, organic look.
- Custom options: Concrete allows for unlimited customization in shape, color, size, even incorporated features like seats or shelves. This allows for a completely personalized bathtub.
So for those desiring a bathtub with rustic charm and unique style concrete is an excellent choice! Keep reading for plenty of design ideas.
Minimalist Modern Concrete Tub Designs
For a sleek, contemporary look, a simple monolithic slab of concrete makes a bold style statement. Unadorned rectangular forms work well in modern bathrooms where you want clean, crisp lines.
Rectangular Soaking Tub
A rectangular tub with straight sides provides a sculptural, minimalist look. For a serene spa-like vibe, choose a tub that allows for a deep soak. This creates an indulgent retreat right at home. Keep the drain simple and contemporarily styled.
Angled Back Rest
Adding a slight incline to one end of the tub creates an angled backrest for comfort and support. The asymmetry makes for a dynamically modern design. Keep lines very simple for maximum impact.
Curved End
A rectangular tub with one rounded end adds subtle interest while maintaining clean lines. The contrast between the circle and square shapes makes for a bold, geometric focal point.
Textural Interest
Playing with varied textures and finishes gives visual depth and dimension. Try a smooth interior with heavily sandblasted exterior or combine glossy and matte sections.
Soaking Shelf
Incorporate a wide, shallow integral shelf for placing bath accessories. This also conveniently provides an area for resting arms while soaking. Keep the shelf streamlined and minimalist.
Built-In Look
For a sleek custom look, consider attaching surrounding walls and ledges made of wood, tile, or cement board. This makes the tub appear to be part of a unified whole rather than a separate element.
Rounded Concrete Bathtub Styles
The fluid curves of rounded concrete tubs make them an enticing option. The organic shapes feel inviting, allowing you to sink in and relax.
Oval Tub
A simple oval form makes an elegant focal point, especially when placed on a diagonal in the room’s layout. An oval tub can fit in a variety of spaces while providing ample room for soaking.
Freeform Shape
Go bold with an entirely custom freeform tub created just for your space. Work with a professional to design a seamlessly integrated look tailored exactly for you.
Accent Arch
Incorporate an arch detail on one end of an oval tub for added visual interest and a touch of sophistication. This lends a subtle vintage vibe.
Molded Backrest
Maximize comfort with a molded-in backrest on one end of the tub. Gently curved for ergonomic support, this feels ultra-luxurious when reclining in a deep soak.
Curved Bench
Add integral seating with a curved bench or platform molded right into one side. Great for relaxation or conveniently resting feet and legs while bathing.
Rounded Corners
Soften the look of a rectangular tub by rounding the corners. The curved edges create a more organic, inviting shape while still allowing you to recline fully.
Ornate & Vintage Concrete Tub Designs
Concrete is easily molded into more elaborate, decorative styles for a touch of vintage luxury. These ornate tubs evoke a classic, romantic feel.
Clawfoot Tub
Perched atop clawfoot legs, these tubs have all the presence of cast iron or porcelain versions but with concrete’s earthy appeal. Extra luxurious with soaking depth.
Scroll Feet
For a more delicate look, try slender turned feet with scrolling motifs. This vintage detailing looks elegant on a simple tub shape.
Elevated Back
An exaggeratedly curved or slanted back creates a beautiful silhouette. Tailor the specific shape to your taste – the additional height provides comfortable lounging.
Double Slipper Tub
An oversized slipper tub design easily allows two people to enjoy a relaxing soak together. Make an indulgent statement in your master bath.
Scalloped Rim
Applied trim along the tub’s top edge lends ornate detail. Try repeating scallops, curved profiles, or bookend-style molding for a touch of whimsy.
Lion Feet
Incorporate figural elements like lion paw feet for vintage flair. Keep the tub shape clean to spotlight these artistic details.
Unique Add-Ons & Special Features
Part of the beauty of concrete tubs is how easily they can be customized. Take them to the next level with special add-ons tailored to your needs.
Integral Seating
Molded-in benches or platforms allow you to sit and relax in the tub. Positioning them at different depths and heights creates versatility.
Shelves & Trays
Incorporate ledges for keeping bath accessories within arm’s reach. Try different shapes and placement for handy storage solutions.
Built-In Planters
Surround the tub with built-in greenery by incorporating planter boxes and plant shelves right into the design. This brings the outdoors in!
Steps & Risers
Make it easy and safe to get in and out of a deep tub with integrated steps or risers at the head end. Tailor heights for comfort.
Grab Bars
Unobtrusive yet helpful grab bars can be set into the tub design for accessibility and stability getting in and out. Choose horizontal or angled bars.
Adjustable Drain
Rather than one fixed drain, incorporate a special adjustable drainage system. This allows you to customize the depth of your soak.
Chromatherapy
Set LED lights into the interior tub walls to provide glowing chromatherapy hues. Alternate colors for a soothing spa experience.
Embedded Objects
Make a tub truly one-of-a-kind by embedding found objects, marbles, sea glass, stones or personal treasures into the concrete as decoration.
Stylish Color Options
One of concrete’s assets is how readily it takes color for a completely custom look. Tinting or painting the concrete allows for any color tub you can dream up!
Warm Earth Tones
The natural gray color of concrete pairs beautifully with earthy hues like tan, brown and terra cotta. This enhances the material’s organic vibe.
Bold Brights
Make a dramatic splash by tinting or painting the concrete a vibrant hue like cherry red, cobalt blue, or even glossy black.
Soft Pastels
For a more soothing ambiance, use pale tints like baby blue, mauve, butter yellow or seafoam green. Surprisingly chic and elegant!
Patina Finish
The look of aged metal can be mimicked with a verdigris patina tint. This vintage greenish blue effect is eye-catching.
Ombre Color
Using graduated color – darker at one end fading lighter on the other – gives dynamic, unexpected flair. Layer translucent tints.
Speckled Tone
Mixing flecks of color into the concrete gives a beautifully mottled, speckled finish. Inspired by natural stone and aggregates.
Unique Bathtub Shapes to Consider
Since concrete can be poured into any mold, there are endless possibilities for making your tub a custom fit. Here are some unique bathtub shapes to consider:
Corner Tub
Take advantage of unused space with a tub placed diagonally in the corner. The angled position allows for ergonomic reclining.
Half-Moon Tub
This rounded, organic shape can fit smaller spaces while still allowing a deep soak. Its curved form creates a cocoon-like retreat.
Wave Tub
These sensuous, wave-shaped tubs evoke floating on the sea. A gentle rocking motion adds soothing interest to bathing.
Irregular Custom Shape
Work with designers to create a completely customized asymmetrical tub form tailored exactly to your unique space and body dimensions.
Octagonal Tub
Eight straight sides give this tub a graphic, sculptural look. The flat planes contrast beautifully with the liquid volume of water.
Full Circle Tub
Make a bold circular statement with a completely round tub. Symmetrical and organic, it resembles an inland pond.
U-Shaped Tub
Two parallel straight sides joined by one curved end make a contemporary tub style. Tailor dimensions for lounging comfort.
Outdoor Concrete Bathtub Options
Thanks to its durability and weather-resistance, concrete also works beautifully for outdoor bathing spaces. Integrate tubs into garden designs or open-air bathhouses.
Garden Tub
Nestle a simple concrete tub amidst plantings on a patio or deck. Choose lighter, natural hues that blend with the environment.
Rustic Woodsurround
Surround an outdoor tub with unstained wood planks for a cozy, countryside vibe. The rich texture complements weathered concrete.
Partially Submerged
For a natural spring feel, partially submerge the tub underground, leaving half visible emerging from the earth.
Pondside Placement
Situate the tub next to or overhanging a backyard pond. This connects the experience of bathing with immersion in the water feature.
Privacy Screen
Use fencing, lattice, or plants to create secluded spaces for outdoor bathing. This provides shelter and discretion.
Sunken Tub
Construct a water-tight lowered area for the tub. Being set into the ground provides privacy and a relaxing immersed experience.
Hot Tub Style
Heat the water with integrated heating systems and jets. This transforms an outdoor concrete tub into a hot tub for year-round enjoyment.
Inspiring Settings for Concrete Bathtubs
The earthy material and sculptural presence of a concrete tub adds wonderful contrast and interest to bath areas. Here are some inspiring settings to show off these unique baths:
Spa Style
Create a relaxing spa vibe with soft towels, natural materials, and greenery surrounding a simple tub form. Candles and chromatherapy lighting amp up the zen.
Rustic Minimalism
The raw concrete texture pairs perfectly with wood, black accents, and industrial elements. Keep lines very simple and uncluttered.
Tropical Retreat
Vibrant hues, dramatic tropical foliage, rattan and bamboo textures make the perfect bold complement to concrete.
Industrial Chic
Exposed brick, dark metals, concrete surfaces, and pendant lighting set an edgy urban backdrop. A sleek tub fits right in.
Midcentury Style
All the iconic midcentury details like retro tile, breezy fabrics, iconic furnishings suit a minimalist tub. Accent with wood and warmth.
Japanese Inspiration
Bamboo, natural fiber mats, stone accents and serene greenery complement concrete’s organic imperfections. Strive for peaceful simplicity.
Maintaining & Protecting Concrete Bathtubs
While very durable, concrete does require some protective measures to keep it looking its best and prevent damage. Here are tips for maintaining and sealing your concrete tub:
- Allow new concrete to cure fully – generally about 4 weeks. This ensures it hardens completely before use.
- Seal concrete with a penetrating concrete sealer to prevent staining and damage from moisture. Reapply yearly.
- Avoid harsh cleaners like bleach. Use mild soap and water for routine cleaning.
- Check for scratches or cracks in the sealer, reapplying to any problem spots as needed. This prevents water permeating the concrete.
- Consider re-sanding and re-sealing the entire interior surface every 2-3 years to maintain the protective barrier.
- Don’t let water pool for extended periods, drying fully between uses. This prevents long-term moisture damage.
- For outdoor installations, check that drainage and freeze/thaw conditions won’t compromise the tub in colder climates.
With proper installation and care, a concrete bathtub can provide many years of enjoyment with their natural, earthy appeal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are concrete bathtubs heavy?
Yes, concrete tubs are quite heavy, often weighing 300-400 pounds or more. Professional installation is recommended to provide proper structural support. The weight makes these tubs extremely sturdy once in place.
How durable is concrete for bathtubs?
Properly installed and sealed concrete is remarkably durable – it can easily last 50 years or more with proper maintenance. The material is chip and stain-resistant when sealed.
Can you add sculptural details to concrete tubs?
Absolutely! Concrete can be imprinted with any kind of textural details or sculpted/carved to add three-dimensional decorative accents. This allows for total customization.
What colors can concrete bathtubs be?
Concrete can be integrally colored or stained nearly any hue through tints and oxidized pigments. Painting the surface also expands color options.
Can concrete bathtubs be used outdoors?
Yes, concrete makes excellent outdoor tubs since the material stands up well to weather exposure. Proper freeze-thaw precautions must be taken in colder climates.
Are concrete bathtubs expensive?
Concrete tubs generally range from moderately priced to high-end, depending on the complexity of shape and design. Simple tubs are comparable to many acrylic options, while ornate styles cost more.
Does concrete stain easily?
Bare concrete can stain, so it’s important to properly seal and maintain the sealant barrier. With a sealed surface, concrete resists staining quite well with proper care.
Can you make concrete bathtubs look vintage?
Definitely! Concrete tubs can be imprinted, colored, and finished to mimic a weathered, timeworn patina. Details like clawfeet also give a vintage look.
Are concrete tubs comfortable for soaking?
The hard surface of concrete makes very supportive, ergonomic tubs. Designs with molded backrests, seats, and lumbar support provide excellent soaking comfort.
Can you embed objects in a concrete tub?
Yes, mementos, stones, marbles or found items can be pressed into the surface while the concrete is curing. This adds personalization and decorative detail.
Concrete Bathtub Inspiration
Concrete bathtubs offer unlimited possibilities for creating your perfect soaking sanctuary. With natural character, sustainable qualities, and unlimited customization options, concrete allows you to realize truly unique, personalized designs that infuse your bathing area with originality and earthy beauty. Whether seeking a sleek, modern look or vintage charm, concrete tubs provide lasting, eco-friendly appeal. Let these ideas stir your imagination for a hand-crafted tub that becomes a gracious design anchor with an organic, nature-inspired aesthetic.
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