How to Make a Bathtub the Focal Point of Your Bathroom
A well-chosen bathtub can instantly make a cohesive bathroom, increasing its function and beauty. With a compact layout or a spacious master bathroom, the right style, size, and accessories can help the bathtub become the visual centrepiece of the room.
What Bathtubs Look Great in Any Bathroom?
Freestanding baths are widely regarded as the most visually striking option for almost any bathroom style. Their sculptural form allows them to stand alone as a design feature, working equally well in modern, minimalist, or classic interiors. Made with thick Lucite acrylic and supported by a steel frame, these baths are not only beautiful but also durable, resistant to scratches, and designed to maintain their appearance over time.
For a softer, design-led look, options like a fluted bathtub add texture and depth, creating visual interest without overwhelming the space. These styles work particularly well when paired with simple tapware and neutral finishes, allowing the bathtub itself to take centre stage.
Making a Bathtub Fill Space in Large Bathrooms
In larger bathrooms, scale is key. Oversized freestanding bathtubs in sizes ranging from 1500mm to 1800mm help anchor the room and prevent it from feeling empty. Round bathtubs or slipper bathtubs are ideal for creating a sense of luxury, especially when positioned centrally or beneath a feature window.
To further emphasise the bathtub as a focal point, consider leaving clear space around it. This negative space highlights the bath’s shape and creates a spa-like atmosphere. Materials also play an important role. Choosing a stone bath adds visual weight, a smooth, skin-friendly texture, and excellent heat retention, enhancing both comfort and aesthetic appeal.
Takeaway: The best bathtubs for large bathrooms are freestanding bathtubs, round bathtubs, and slipper bathtubs.
How Do I Make Bathtubs Fit Perfectly in Small Bathrooms?
In smaller bathrooms, thoughtful selection ensures the bathtub still stands out without dominating the room. A corner bath or back-to-wall bath fits neatly into existing layouts, maximising floor space while maintaining a clean, streamlined look. These designs are especially effective in apartments and compact homes where space efficiency is essential.
Smaller freestanding bathtubs, starting from 1200mm to 1400mm (often called small bathtubs), are another great option. When paired with wall-mounted tapware and lighter colour palettes, they create a sense of openness while still offering the visual appeal of a freestanding design.
Takeaway: The best bathtubs for small bathrooms are back-to-wall baths, corner baths, and small freestanding baths.
Styles of Bathtubs Available
Today’s bathrooms offer a wide range of bathtub styles to suit different needs and tastes. Acrylic bathtubs remain a popular choice due to their affordability, ease of maintenance, and excellent heat retention. For those seeking a more refined feel, stone bathtubs provide a seamless, moulded design with a smooth finish that feels luxurious to the touch.
Style-wise, homeowners can choose from freestanding, back-to-wall, corner, round, and slipper designs, each offering a different balance of practicality and visual impact.
Additions for Extra Comfort and Functionality
Accessories can enhance both the usability and appearance of your bathtub. A bath screen is a practical addition for shower baths, helping to prevent water splashes while maintaining a sleek, modern look. This is especially useful in bathrooms where the tub doubles as a shower.
Other thoughtful additions include bath caddies for storage and relaxation, allowing you to keep essentials within reach while soaking. These small touches not only improve comfort but also contribute to the overall styling, reinforcing the bathtub as the true focal point of the bathroom.