How to design a modern bathroom with a freestanding bathtub

A modern bathroom involves a combination of elegance and comfort, in which a freestanding bathtub can take centre stage. In this article, we find out how a freestanding bathtub can transform a bathroom into a relaxing oasis, with details of why it is so versatile and why it is the ideal choice for a modern bathroom.

What is a freestanding bathtub

When designing a modern bathroom, you’re always faced with the dilemma of whether to choose a bathtub or a shower. Unless you have enough space to install both, you might want to consider the following tips to dispel a few doubts and help you choose.

Each solution comes with its own merits and advantages, but the bathtub is inescapably associated with the general idea of relaxation. What’s more, trends in recent years have seen a return to bathtubs, especially freestanding tubs.One of the more interesting features of freestanding bathtubs is that you are free to choose where exactly you want to install them in the room.

Whether its with or without feet, a freestanding bath is a must-have for those with a penchant for the retro, one which comes in a multitude of design models for all kinds of styles, especially the modern style.

Where to place a freestanding bathtub in a modern bathroom

Unlike traditional built-in or wall-mounted bathtubs, freestanding tubs need no special support frame because they are not built into the floor. This means that they can be placed anywhere in a modern bathroom and wherever they stand they create an inviting atmosphere, almost transforming the space into a small home spa. Freestanding bathtubs can be installed in large spaces and small bathrooms alike, but always deliver the right amount of comfort and style.

Given the dramatic effect they produce, freestanding bathtubs are great in large modern bathrooms, where this important accessory of relaxation and self-care is the real highlight of the space.

However, they are equally at home in smaller or narrower modern bathrooms. A small freestanding bathtub will deliver comfort and style in a carefully designed space, if placed next to the narrowest wall, away from obstacles like an opening door.

There is no doubt that a freestanding bathtub looks perfect right in the middle of the room. Another effective solution is to install it close to a perimeter wall or a room divider. Depending on the material chosen for the dividing panel, it can also increase privacy and add to the overall look. For example, a glass divider could maximise the interplay between transparency and opacity, and have decorative effects.

Alternatively, if installed behind a black metal grille divider, a freestanding bathtub becomes the focal point for relaxation in a modern urban-style bathroom.

Installing a freestanding bathtub

The ability to choose where to place your bathtub has considerable benefits, but also means considering technical aspects like the layout of pipes or repositioning drains. For this it’s important to plan the installation of your freestanding bathtub with the help of a professional, who will advise you on the best solution, whether you are renovating or designing from scratch. When deciding where to install your freestanding bath, you should also consider the space needed for the taps, which, in most cases, are not wall-mounted, but self-supporting and installed directly in the floor.

Which freestanding bathtub?

This is another decision for which there are no absolute solutions. Numerous models of freestanding bathtubs can be found on the market which differ in terms of shape and size. The best choice is the one that best suits your bathroom and the style you want to create there. Our advice is to make sure you consider all aspects carefully, including the technicalities of installation. Don’t leave anything to chance.

For example, the material you choose can have a significant impact, not only on price, but also on the weight of the tub and therefore on the installation process. Freestanding bathtubs are usually built from modern, innovative materials. Arcom has models in Tecnoril® or Mineral composite finishes. Both of these materials are elegant in appearance and easy to clean. They are also available in several colours in addition to classic – though timeless – white, which is itself a tone that is well-suited to a modern bathroom. Of course, these materials are not the only options. Freestanding bathtubs are also available in ceramic, stone and metal.

Advantages and disadvantages of a freestanding bathtub

Here are some of the things to take into consideration when choosing a bathtub to suit your needs. But rather than thinking of them as “pros and cons”, simply consider them as food for thought.

Freedom to install anywhere

We’ve already said it, but it’s worth mentioning again. It’s the number one benefit of a freestanding bath, its most important feature, its main strength, namely the flexibility to be situated anywhere in your space. And not only are you free to place it in the middle or in a corner of a modern bathroom, you can also install it in other rooms such as a modern bedroom. This would certainly make it a bold, undeniably striking design choice.

The unique pleasure of the bathroom

If you choose a freestanding bathtub for your modern bathroom, you are almost certainly choosing to add something that will substantially enhance the character of the room. In addition to being functional, it is a dramatic feature where you can find the pleasure of lying back and relaxing. Unlike a traditional bathtub, there is no way to accessorise a freestanding tub with additional features, such as a screen for a dual bath-shower function.

Designs and sizes for every style

There are so many models of freestanding bathtub available on the market that you may be spoilt for choice. Whether you’re looking for a classic style or something more modern, you’re sure to find the right solution for your bathroom. In terms of size, you can choose from different heights and widths, which vary to meet different needs.

Arcom offers 4 different models: Chloe, Victoria, Divina and Forma. Our bathtubs are developed from a blend of innovation and tradition and come in different shapes and sizes, but all have harmonious contours and make a strong visual impact.

No surface storage space

If you’re wondering where to put your bottles of soap and shampoo, sponges, brushes and other accessories, there is a solution. Although they are not wall-mounted with extra ledges for storage, freestanding bathtubs are no less practical. They simply offer new possibilities.

If a bathtub stands close to a wall, why not take advantage of recesses in the wall or shelves for storage and use hooks for towels and bathrobes.

If you have plenty of room around your freestanding bathtub, you could place low tables and footstools as storage surfaces, with the added benefit of looking good in your space.

Footstools and wooden stools sit perfectly next to a freestanding bathtub – especially a round one – in a Scandinavian style bathroom with a nature-inspired atmosphere of wellbeing.

We hope that the information in this post about how to design a modern bathroom with a freestanding bathtub will help you find the right solution for your space. As we have seen, a freestanding bathtub can transform any bathroom, spacious or compact, into a stylish and relaxing oasis. So why not embrace the charm of a relaxing, welcoming bathroom.