Freestanding tubs may be the trendy choice for your bathroom, but these design ideas showcase that panelled, built-in baths can be equally as showstopping.
Image: Kaldera bath range, V+A Baths
If we were to ask you to describe your dream bathroom, chances are you'd include a beautiful freestanding bath tub in your answer. While it's true that these styles are aesthetically striking and dynamic, there are some benefits to consider before dismissing a built-in bath with panels.
On a practical day-to-day level, built-in styles offer greater functionality when you need to bathe children (or even pets) and they're easier to clean, but there are benefits to your project and build too. They often use space more efficiently as they sit flush to the wall; they're not as heavy as some freestanding tubs which may require reinforcement of the floor; and they're generally less expensive, which may be a big reason to choose one if you're looking to make savings.
Don't let preconceptions of the visuals of a built-in bath cloud your judgement - check out these 5 beautiful bathrooms below which all showcase fixed designs.
Small space design
Image: Paul Craig for West One Bathrooms
In this relatively compact bathroom, panelling the bath in the same marble tiles as the walls and floors reduces its visual impact in the room, helping it to feel bigger. You can find out more about this bathroom renovation project in Grand Designs November 2019 issue.
Clean lines
Image: Kaldera bath range, V+A Baths
Inset against a window of the same proportions, the Kaldera bath from V+A Baths creates a modern, architectural look in this bathroom. Graphic, straight lines dominate the space, including a floating vanity counter and the 3D geometric panelling.
Pattern and print
Image: Day True
While a freestanding bath predominantly relies on its shape and material finish to make an impact, built-in baths offer an opportunity to create a focal point on a smaller budget. By using the same bold monochrome tiles on the floor and bath panel, the designers at Day True have also created an optical illusion which makes this bathroom look larger than it is.
Traditional charm
Image: C.P. Hart
While the go-to bath for a traditional style scheme may be a clawfoot tub, this design from C.P. Hart employs simple classic panelling on the front so that you can enjoy all the functionality of a built-in bath without compromising on style.
Built in forms
Image: Kaldewei
Built-in baths offer more scope to play with new ideas in your architecture to create something bold, fresh and unique to your home. Fixed divides in this space featuring Kaldewei's Conoduo bath create a streamlined design that is super functional and comfortable to use.
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