Install a free standing tub

Period homes and larger bathrooms have long been the home of the free standing tub, but they’re now becoming popular nationwide with modern home designs.

Gregg Jones, general manager of Victoria & Albert Baths, attributes this to new cutting-edge bathroom designs. "For a long time we've been lagging behind in free standing tub design in Australia. I think we've been a little staid in our idea of what a bath can achieve," he says.

He believes the increasing popularity of the free standing tub reflects a desire for greater luxury in the home. "It's really a lifestyle thing, with people expressing themselves more individually," says Gregg. While classic designs are still available, today's modern free standing tub reflects a contemporary and minimal look, using organic forms that mirror the human body.

Mixing modern technology with classic bath designs

Modern technology and materials have seen the development of free standing tub designs in a range of sizes, lengths and depths, meaning that they are no longer impractical for families with small children, or people who have trouble getting in and out of a deeper bath.

And they can actually make your bathroom appear larger, according to Gregg. "They create a much greater feeling of space and also make more of a statement," he says.

A free standing tub is generally heavier than a built-in model because of the density of the material, although Gregg reveals that two people should be able to get them into position quite easily. Some models may be extremely heavy when filled with water, so check whether your floor can support the weight before you buy.

Bathroom fittings for the free standing tub design

It's important with a free standing tub to select bathroom tapware that is going to complement the design, and there are many contemporary floor- and wall-mounted varieties available. Taps can also be mounted on the rim of the bath for a truly streamlined look, although this is not possible with all models.

When selecting a free standing tub, be aware that models sitting off the floor will have their pipes showing underneath. Many photographs don't show this, although it's easy to make it look pretty by adding a chrome-plated sheath. If you don't like the look, there are many models available that go down to the floor, with their plumbing hidden.

And while freestanding baths may be more expensive, Gregg points out that it's also possible to spend a considerable amount on a regular built-in bath, depending on the kind you choose.

Contact a bathroom renovator in your area and find out what a freestanding bath can do for your bathroom:

Photo: Victoria & Albert Baths