A freestanding bathtub can be a bold and eye-catching centerpiece in any bathroom. With its sculptural design and presence, a freestanding tub makes a statement and serves as a focal point. When planning a new bathroom or renovating an existing space, a freestanding tub is a way to add drama, elegance, and sophistication.
What is a Freestanding Bathtub?
A freestanding bathtub is a bathtub that is not connected to the walls of the bathroom. It sits freely on the floor, unencumbered by an alcove or surround. Freestanding tubs are available in a wide range of styles, shapes, sizes, and materials to complement any design aesthetic.
Unlike a regular alcove tub that is enclosed on three sides, a freestanding tub allows for easier access and cleaning around all sides. The open and unobstructed design highlights the sculptural qualities of the tub itself. Options range from classic clawfoot tubs to smooth and curvaceous modern forms.
Benefits of a Freestanding Tub
There are several advantages that a freestanding tub can provide:
Visual Impact
The most immediate benefit is the striking visual impact. A freestanding tub becomes a stunning centerpiece for the bathroom, providing an artistic element with its shapely silhouettes. It creates a spa-like atmosphere and luxurious feel.
Open Access
With open access all around, there is more flexibility in designing the rest of the bathroom layout. There is easier maintenance since all sides can be cleaned.
Soaking Experience
Freestanding tubs are often deeper than typical tubs, allowing for a more immersive soaking experience. There is more room to stretch out and relax.
Style Options
From modern to traditional to vintage, freestanding tubs come in an endless array of styles to match any design vision. Their unique forms allow them to stand out as artful focal points.
Popular Styles of Freestanding Tubs
Freestanding tubs range widely in shape, size, and style. Here are some of the most popular design options:
Clawfoot Tub
This classic tub features ornate feet in a claw shape. Clawfoot tubs have a vintage, nostalgic charm perfect for traditional bathrooms. They come in acrylic, enamel, cast iron, and copper.
Pedestal Tub
Sitting atop a central pedestal base, these tubs have a clean, contemporary look. The pedestal offers great support and highlights the tub’s sculptural shape.
Double Slipper Tub
With a rounded shape inspired by slippers, this tub style features two rounded ends. It allows for two people to enjoy a soak together.
Oval Tub
A streamlined oval shape gives this tub a sleek, modern aesthetic. Some oval tubs feature very rounded ends while others are more linear.
Rectangle Tub
Offering clean lines and distinct corners, rectangular tubs provide a minimalist contemporary look. They come in a range of lengths to fit different spaces.
Curved Tub
With sensuous, curvaceous shapes, curved tubs make dramatic sculptural statements. They can be serpentine or feature one or two rounded ends.
Freestanding Tub Materials
Freestanding tubs are fabricated from a variety of materials, each with their own aesthetic qualities, durability, and maintenance needs:
Acrylic
Acrylic is a lightweight and affordable option. It resists chipping and cracking and is easy to clean. Acrylic can mimic the look of other materials like stone or metal.
Enameled Cast Iron
Known for heat retention and durability, enameled cast iron provides a glossy finish that resists scratches and stains. It offers a vintage charm.
Stone Resin
Stone resin tubs are made with a mixture of crushed stone and resin. They provide the look of real stone at a lower cost and lighter weight.
Copper
Naturally antimicrobial, copper has a soft golden glow and will patina over time. Copper tubs make a luxurious statement but require diligent cleaning.
Wood
Unusual and eco-friendly, wooden tubs can be fabricated from teak, redwood, cedar, and other woods sealed to be water-resistant. They provide warmth and natural texture.
Choosing the Right Freestanding Tub
Selecting a freestanding tub involves considering style, size, material, and placement:
Style
Think about what design style best matches your bathroom’s overall aesthetic – contemporary, modern, traditional, vintage, minimalist, etc. Also consider the shape – curved, oval, rectangular, slipper, or clawfoot.
Size
Measure your space carefully to determine the ideal length and width. Consider if one or two people will use the tub most often. Allow proper traffic flow around the tub.
Material
Factor in the look, feel, durability, and maintenance needs of the material. How will it coordinate with other finishes in the room? Does it fit within your budget?
Placement
Determine the best location in the room – under a window, along a focal wall, or as a room divider. Ensure all sides are accessible for cleaning.
Freestanding Tub Installation Tips
Installing a freestanding tub requires careful planning and execution. Here are some key tips for a smooth installation:
Prepare the Site
Make sure the floor is level and capable of supporting a very heavy tub when full of water. The area should also have proper drainage.
Assemble the Tub
Follow manufacturer’s instructions to assemble tub feet, pedestal, or other components. Having an extra person helps.
Connect Plumbing
Flexible supplies are needed to connect to plumbing in the floor allowing the tub to move slightly. Ensure access to supplies.
Level the Tub
Use the adjustable feet and a level to ensure the tub is positioned evenly. This prevents rocking and shifting.
Check Codes
Comply with any codes for installing reinforcements, overflow drains, remote valves. Permits may be required.
Water Test
Once fully installed, fill the tub and check for any leaks. Verify proper drainage. Make any final adjustments.
Design Ideas for Freestanding Tubs
A freestanding tub can transform a bathroom and serve as a striking focal point. Here are some tips to inspire creative and stylish designs:
Dramatic Backdrop
Position the tub against a bold backdrop like a textured tile, intricate wallpaper, or painted accent wall. This highlights the tub’s sculptural form.
Spa Experience
Incorporate elements like bath caddies, candles, and essential oils to create a relaxing spa vibe. Windows and skylights also add to the ambience.
Special Lighting
From pendant lights to sconces to natural light, carefully planned lighting casts a beautiful glow on the tub. Dramatic lighting adds style.
Coordinated Finishes
Choose plumbing fixtures, cabinetry, flooring and other finishes that complement the tub design. Keep the room cohesive.
Privacy Screen
A screen or divider offers privacy and separation from other areas like the toilet and shower if the tub is not in its own room.
Luxurious Touches
Add glamour with accessories like plush towels and robes, a champagne bucket, vases of flowers, artwork, and a unique rug.
Styling a Clawfoot Tub
With vintage charm and sculptural curves, a clawfoot tub can be an elegant focal point. Here are some ideas for styling a clawfoot tub:
Vintage Hardware
Antique-style plumbing fixtures like cross handles, a shower rod, and custom shower curtain give a clawfoot tub old-world appeal.
Period Tile
Subway tile, hex tile, or black and white checkerboard tile coordinates beautifully with the vintage vibe of a clawfoot tub.
Classic Accents
Incorporate elements like beadboard wainscoting, wall sconces, framed botanical prints, and a pedestal sink for timeless character.
Natural Textures
Layer in raw, organic textures with a jute rug, linen curtains, wicker shelving, and woven baskets for relaxed warmth.
Fresh Florals
Simple yet lovely floral arrangements in vases provide a feminine counterpoint to the tub’s strong lines.
Bold Paint Color
Painting the walls a rich color like deep blue, emerald green or eggplant purple plays up the tub’s bold presence.
Statement Wallpaper
Vintage-inspired wallpaper with subtle patterns or graphic prints complements a clawfoot tub’s retro appeal.
Curved Tub Design Concepts
With their sensuous forms and sculptural appeal, curved tubs deserve special attention. Here are some curved tub design ideas:
Curve-Mimicking Tile
Install rectangular tile on the diagonal or curved tile to mirror and accentuate the tub’s curves. Large-scale tile works best.
Wash of Color
Bathe the tub area in an enveloping single color like serene blue or tranquil green. Use it on walls, cabinetry and other elements.
Natural Pairings
Warm wood flooring, rattan chairs, linen drapes and jute rugs complement the tub’s flowing lines with organic texture.
Spa Touches
Incorporate a eucalyptus-filled shower, plush towels, scented candles and mirrors for sensual enhancement of the bathing experience.
Floating Vanity
A wall-mounted floating vanity maintains the spacious and airy feeling around a curvaceous tub. Keep the space below open.
Curve-Inspired Art
Abstract art with curved forms or swirling patterns provides an artistic accompaniment to the tub’s shape.
Slope Ceiling
Sloping the ceiling downward behind the tub echoes its curving silhouette for a cohesive effect.
Freestanding Tub Placement Ideas
Proper placement is key to getting the full effect from a freestanding tub. Here are some placement ideas:
Focal Point
Position the tub as the focal point directly across from the door. This maximizes the dramatic impact as you enter the room.
Angle View
Situate the tub at an angle rather than flat against a wall. This allows it to be appreciated from multiple viewpoints.
Room Divider
In an open concept bath, use the tub as a room divider separating shower and toilet areas for visual privacy.
Corner Spot
Tuck a tub into a corner to take advantage of two walls and windows. The corner vantage point is engaging.
Alcove Niche
Recess an oval, curved or rectangular tub slightly into a designed alcove or niche for a cozy, built-in look.
Under Window
Place the tub under window(s) to afford lovely natural light and views while soaking. Provides a focal point.
Free Standing
Allow 360 degree walk-around access by floating the tub in the center of the room. Highlights its sculptural form.
Create a Spa Bathroom
A freestanding tub is the perfect starting point for creating a relaxing, spa-like oasis right at home. Here are some tips:
uncluttered Space
Keep the space clean and free of visual clutter. Limit storage and accessories to the essentials so the room feels tranquil.
Natural Lighting
Strategically placed windows and skylights allow for a bright and airy atmosphere during the day and create a mood-enhancing dim glow at night.
Greenery and Texture
Incorporate lush green plants, woven accents, natural stone, and wood elements for organic texture, freshness and tranquility.
Scent
Use aromatherapy with candles, essential oils, or fresh flowers to please the senses and induce deep relaxation.
Soft Fabrics
Plush towels, robes, curtains, and area rugs add to the pampered feel.
Warmth
Radiant floor heating and heated tub jets enhance comfort and create a luxurious spa experience.
Music
Integrate speakers to provide calming music or guided meditations for the ultimate soak.
Chromatherapy
Color-changing LED lighting sets the desired mood – cool blues for relaxation, energizing yellows, comforting oranges.
Minimalist Style
Adopt a pared-down aesthetic using neutral colors, clean lines, and sparse decorative accents to encourage a sense of tranquility.
Freestanding Tub Maintenance
To keep a freestanding tub looking its best and functioning properly:
- Wipe down all surfaces with a soft cloth and non-abrasive cleanser after each use. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
- For enameled, acrylic or stone resin tubs, occasional reapplication of manufacturers recommended sealants helps protect the finish.
- For metal tubs, immediately dry surfaces after cleaning and apply rubbing wax occasionally to protect from oxidation.
- Drain and thoroughly clean the tub regularly to prevent buildup of soap scum, oils and mineral deposits.
- Use a soft-bristle brush to clean the feet, base, and any hard-to-reach areas of the tub. Check for debris.
- Every few months, fill tub with hot water and add disinfectant or antibacterial cleaner. Allow to sit before draining and rinsing.
- Avoid stepping in and out of a dry tub; step only on a towel or bath mat placed in the bottom.
- Test tub operation and check for leaks occasionally. Have any drips repaired immediately before they worsen.
- Consider using a tub tray across the width of the tub for holding bath accessories. Remove after each use.
Freestanding Tub FAQs
What size bathroom do you need for a freestanding tub?
Freestanding tubs come in many sizes, so there is likely one to fit any bathroom. As a general rule, allow at least 4 feet clearance on three sides and 5 feet at the foot of the tub. 60 square feet is ideal.
How much weight can a bathroom floor support?
On average, a full freestanding tub can weigh 1500-2000 lbs. Floors should be engineered to hold 40-60 lbs per square foot which accommodates a full tub. Consult engineers if unsure.
Do you need a special drain for a freestanding tub?
Freestanding tubs generally require an exposed or open drain kit versus a standard drain. The open drain allows tub placement flexibility and proper drainage.
What plumbing do you need for a freestanding tub?
Flexible supplies are needed to connect to water lines in the floor. Straight, rigid pipes will restrict tub movement. An access panel simplifies plumbing access for maintenance.
How close can a freestanding tub be to the wall?
Most building codes require at least 12 inches clearance on all sides of tubs. This allows for cleaning and prevents water from splashing onto walls which can damage finishes.
How much water does a freestanding tub hold?
The average tub holds 50-75 gallons but it varies by size and depth. Shorter tubs hold less than a full length tub. Deeper soaking tubs hold more than shallower models.
Can you put a freestanding tub in a corner?
Yes, a corner spot highlights the tub’s sculptural quality. Oval, curved front, and rectangular tubs fit well. Ensure proper clearance for entry and exit. Incorporate cleaning access.
Freestanding Tubs Add Drama and Elegance
With stylish design options from contemporary to classic, freestanding tubs make a bold statement in any bathroom. Strategically placed and artfully decorated, they become beautiful artistic centerpieces that transform utilitarian spaces into relaxing sanctuaries. From modernminimalist to vintage chic, a thoughtfully selected freestanding tub adds elegance, enhances the bathing experience and provides an impressive design focal point. With proper planning for installation, maintenance and décor, a freestanding tub can be the crowning jewel of the bathroom.
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