Tubs: Showstopper or Classic?

Freestanding vs. Built-In Bathtubs: Which One’s Right for You?

When it comes to designing your dream bathroom, few decisions carry as much weight—or promise as much relaxation—as choosing the perfect bathtub. The tub is often the centerpiece of the space, a sanctuary where you unwind after a long day. But here’s the big question: should you go for a sleek, statement-making freestanding tub or the practical, space-saving charm of a built-in? Let’s dive into the pros, cons, and vibes of each to help you decide.

Freestanding Bathtubs: The Showstopper

Picture this: a clawfoot tub standing proudly in the middle of your bathroom, or maybe a modern oval soaker with clean, minimalist lines. Freestanding tubs are the divas of the bathroom world—they demand attention and ooze luxury.

Bathroom with white clawfoot tub, glass shower, toilet, and windows. Gray walls and flooring.

Why You'll Love It:

Aesthetic Appeal: These tubs are art pieces. Whether you lean toward vintage elegance or contemporary chic, a freestanding tub elevates your bathroom into something magazine-worthy.
Placement Freedom: No walls? No problem. You can plop it wherever your heart (and plumbing) desires—under a window, in the center of the room, or angled for drama.
Soaking Experience: Many freestanding tubs are deeper and wider, perfect for a full-body soak that feels like a spa day at home.

Spacious bathroom with a standalone tub, dark wood cabinets, and double sinks.

White bathtub in a modern bathroom with marble floors and blue walls, with towels hanging on a bar.

Spacious, modern bathroom with a white tub, glass shower, and blue tiled accent wall.

The Catch:

Space: These beauties need room to shine. If your bathroom’s on the smaller side, a freestanding tub might feel like an elephant in a phone booth.
Cost: Luxury comes with a price tag. Freestanding tubs (and their installation) often cost more than built-ins.
Cleaning: Dust bunnies love to gather around those exposed legs or curves. Be ready to scrub around the whole thing.

Built-In Bathtubs: The Practical Classic

Now imagine a tub snugly tucked against the wall, maybe with a tiled surround or a handy shower combo. Built-in bathtubs are the reliable workhorses of the bathing world—functional, familiar, and oh-so-versatile.

White bathtub with dark countertop and built-in towel storage in a modern bathroom.

Why You'll Love It:

Space Saver: Built-ins maximize every inch, fitting seamlessly into corners or alcoves. Perfect for compact bathrooms where square footage is precious.
Affordability: Generally, they’re easier on the wallet—both in terms of the tub itself and the simpler installation process.
Storage Bonus: That ledge around the tub? Instant shelf for candles, shampoo, or a glass of wine (no judgment here).
Shower Combo Option: If you’re team “shower and soak,” built-ins often come with showerheads, making them a two-in-one deal.

Spacious bathroom with a dark vanity, soaking tub, toilet, and stone floor.

Modern bathroom with white vanity, bathtub, and gray shower. Window with blinds.

The Catch:

Design: They’re not as flashy. Built-ins blend in rather than stand out, so they might not satisfy your inner interior designer.

Installation: While cheaper upfront, they require precise fitting into your bathroom’s layout, and tiling or surrounds can add complexity.

Less Wow Factor: If you’re dreaming of a Instagram-worthy bathroom, a built-in might feel a little… meh.

Bottom Line:

Freestanding tubs are best for big bathrooms, design enthusiasts and anyone who wants their tub to scream "look at me!" While built-in tubs work better for small spaces, budget-conscious folks, and multitasking bath-shower lovers. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here—it’s all about what fits your life. If you’ve got the space, budget, and a flair for the dramatic, a freestanding tub could be your bathroom’s crown jewel. But if practicality, cost, or a shower combo tops your list, a built-in will serve you well without stealing the spotlight.

Still torn? We can help. Reach out to Anthony Slabaugh Remodeling & Design today so we can start planning, designing, building the bathroom that makes you sigh, "Ahh, this is home."