Frankly, when clients want a freestanding tub I have mixed emotions. Sure these tubs radiate old world charm and make bathrooms feel big. Hollywood capitalizes on their romantic symbolism when filming steamy sex scenes in claw foot tubs. Just watch Bull Durham. Now everyone who dreams of baseball and romance thinks a freestanding tub is requisite equipment.
At the risk of sounding like an insensitive thug, I’ll ask the question. Are freestanding tubs really worth the hassle? In reality, these tubs always had trouble keeping water off the floor (again see Bull Durham). Combining these tubs with a shower is trouble. Ever try managing a curtain on all sides? There’s also a reason these tubs make bathrooms feel big, because they require extra space on all sides.
Don’t forget, post war housing shed the freestanding tub in favor of built-ins. Not just for efficiency, but also for a better bathing experience.
Even so, new versions of the old standard are prevalent. Kohler, American Standard and other manufacturers feel there’s a market. What do you think? If you installed a freestanding tub, would you do it again?
Freestanding Tub
Pros
- Old world charm
- Makes bath feel large
- Transforms bath into spa
- Installation of tub easy
Cons
- Hard to contain water
- Combined shower difficult
- Pricey w/ costly fittings
- Requires more space
- Cleaning can be difficult