As if you don’t have enough decisions to make for your bathroom design, the range of bath designs available is mind-boggling. The choice between freestanding and built-in is one that shouldn’t be undertaken lightly – get it wrong, and you’ll have to live with it for many years. Freestanding baths can be a scene-stealing feature, but are they practical? Built-in baths may be practical, but can they add enough wow-factor? Below are areas to think about when choosing the right bath for you. We believe in providing our clients with the information they need to help make an informed decision that is right for them.

Practical Concerns

Cleaning concerns take the shine off standalone tubs… despite a widespread love affair with the stylish impact they can make.The damp dust and cobwebs that can accumulate behind free standing bath tubs can make cleaning a real pain. One way to get around the cleaning issue is to position the free standing bath with enough room to walk around all sides. But practically, this may be an issue with the amount of space you have in your bathroom, and whether or not you can accommodate that. Built-in baths are practical and good for smaller, tighter plans.

Aside from cleaning freestanding bathtubs have a lack of function. Built in bathtubs offer an edge to place things, whether its a candle, glass of wine or kids bath toys. This can be resolved with the addition of a timber shelve that also adds to the wow factor and styling to the bathroom.

Whilst on the topic of kids, if you have young children or are thinking of having kids in the not so distance future, other parents will tell you that a built-in bath is much easier. When bathing your kids, a freestanding bath will make it much harder and will be more strenuous on your back, as they are deeper than built-in baths and you don’t have anything to lean on.

Appearance Matters

When appearance matters a freestanding bath is hard to beat. if you are willing to compromise on practically then a free standing bath is a stunning feature in your bathroom and a focal point in your home. However, there’s no reasons built-in baths can’t be pretty. Feature tiles and styling can help to transform your built-in bath into a thing of beauty.

Cost Concerns

Its no secret that freestanding baths cost more than double the price of a built-in bath. This can be the deciding factor for some, who see more value in placing their money into another area of their home. At the end of the day it really does come down to budget.

Problem Solved?

The easiest solution would be to get the best of both, and now you can! New back-to-wall baths are appearing on the market. They have the look and style of a freestanding bath, with the practicality of a built-in. The back side of the bath sits flush against the wall, eliminating the hard to reach cleaning spot, and it also provides a ledge against the wall for putting “stuff” on. What’s not to love?

Your home should be as unique as you, At Hurst Homes we believe knowledge is key. With over 30 years building experience, you can trust our team to guide you in the right direction when designing your dream home. For a no-obligation building consultation contact a friendly member of our team to start your building journey today!

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