Tips For Choosing the Right Bath
The right bathtub can transform a simple bathing routine into a luxurious self-care ritual that leaves you feeling refreshed and revitalised. After a long, draining day, nothing compares to the pleasure of enjoying a relaxing soak that melts the stress away. Care to indulge? Here’s how to choose a bathtub that elevates your bathing experience and bathroom design.
Types of Bathtubs
As one of the main building blocks of your bathroom design, this fixture sets the tone for its aesthetics, comfort, and overall functionality. That’s why choosing the ideal bath takes more than just browsing dimensions and materials. It requires exploring all the design possibilities so you can bring your vision to life.
Freestanding
Freestanding baths are a luxurious and stylish option, ideal for spacious bathrooms. Instead of blending into its surroundings, a freestanding bathtub commands attention as the focal point of the room. These fixtures come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from sleek and minimalist to complement modern spaces to classic designs that harmonise with traditional and period homes.
Corner Baths
If you’re looking to maximise the space in your small bathroom, corner bathtubs could be the answer. These units, as the name suggests, fit snugly into a designated corner, taking up less floor and wall space than traditional fixtures. Craving the luxurious feel of a freestanding unit? Consider Highgrove’s ESSENCE range. This collection offers freestanding corner baths that are both stylish and space-saving.
Drop-in Baths
Drop-in bathtubs are a popular choice for both new construction and bathroom renovations. They’re installed in a closure, such as a countertop or deck, for a cohesive look that matches the bathroom cabinets or tiles. Highgrove Bathrooms stocks a beautiful range of drop-in baths, renowned for their practicality, style, and durability. Explore the CLASSICO, OMEGA, and FELINO Series to find the ideal solution for your bathroom.
Clawfoot Baths
Nothing says luxury quite like a classic clawfoot design—the perfect complement to traditional and vintage-inspired bathrooms. Traditionally made from cast iron, these units are now available in sanitary-grade acrylic, combining the time-loved design with the added benefits of lighter weight and easier cleaning. If you’re considering a freestanding clawfoot bath, explore the LAWSON Collection, featuring different shell and foot colour combinations.
Back to Wall Baths
Another great option for smaller bathrooms, back-to-wall units sit flush against a wall, maximising available floor space. The ASPEN Collection offers premium back-to-wall options in a range of colours and finishes. This series builds upon the practicality of back-to-wall units but also borrows the luxury feel of freestanding bathtubs for a truly luxurious soak and maximum functionality.
Materials and Construction
The bathtub material plays a significant role not just aesthetics-wise but also in terms of durability. Highgrove Bathrooms offers a range of popular material options to suit your budget and requirements, including acrylic and solid surface options.
Acrylic bathtubs are known for their affordability and practicality, offering easy maintenance and excellent heat retention. Solid surface tubs are more durable than their traditional acrylic counterparts and boast a more luxurious aesthetic.
Style and Aesthetics
If you lean towards a contemporary or minimalist design, consider bathtubs with clean lines and geometric shapes, like those from Highgrove’s LUGO Series. These will lend a sleek and modern edge to the overall layout. If you prefer a more classic or romantic vibe, opt for tubs with curved lines and softer edges to create a sense of elegance and timeless beauty. Consider models from the FLORENCE Collection to achieve this serene ambience.
The texture of your bathtub can also make a statement of its own. Smooth, acrylic bathtubs beautifully complement minimalist living spaces, whereas textured shells can add a touch of luxury and visual interest. Try to use texture strategically: pair a fluted bathtub with smooth tiles for a balanced look.
Bathtub Add-Ons and Accessories
After you find the perfect match that reflects your design vision and meets your requirements, you can coordinate it with functional accessories for added convenience and style. For instance, you can add handy storage with a stylish bath caddy. This accessory works great for organising shampoos, soaps, and other essentials or displaying tasteful decor like candles and seasonal ornaments. Look for bath caddies that fit securely on the rim of your tub to ensure a secure fit.
You can also enhance your bathtub's functionality with a glass screen, perfect if you’re planning on using your tub for showering as well. The screen will act as a barrier that prevents the water from splashing onto the floor, but it will also complement the overall bathroom aesthetics.
And last but not least, a new bathtub deserves a new plush bath mat to add a touch of comfort and safety. Choose a non-slip and absorbent mat to prevent accidents and ensure a warm and inviting landing zone when stepping out of the tub.