Choosing your bathtub – design and materials to consider

Bathtubs can be more than just practical necessities. They can be places of relaxation, contemplation, healing and contentment.

Whether you are looking for a simple bathtub for a small bathroom or a sculptural work of art to complement your modern bathroom renovation, the latest designs offer a world of possibilities.

Slim, streamlined, minimalist designs are particularly popular right now. They come in a wide range of colours and materials – from porcelain and cast iron to acrylic, fibreglass, engineered stone, natural rock and even wood and copper.

These designs are easy to keep clean with no hidden nooks and crannies to harbour grime, ensuring a hygienic bathing experience.

Materials

Porcelain and cast iron bathtubs are extremely durable and – with proper care – will provide a lifetime of enjoyment.

Bathtubs manufactured from quartz-like materials come in a wide range of colours with a natural matt or polished finish. They are durable, resistant to stains and bacterial growth.

Wooden bathtubs are ideal for cabins, lodges and even city homes with a rustic feel. Update the look with modern enhancements like headrests, wooden seats and insert grab rails.

A freestanding copper bathtub is a natural fit for Provencal, Tuscan, rustic and traditional bathroom themes. With proper care, a genuine lead-free 14-gauge copper tub is sure to last a lifetime.

Acrylic and fibreglass tubs are much lighter than most other bathtub materials, saving effort and money on installation.

Mouldable materials such as acrylic enable a wide range of shapes and sizes to be produced cost-effectively.

Most modern tubs have scratch-resistant finishes, making them easy to clean and look good for many years.

Some tubs are built with double-walled construction to provide excellent heat retention.

Slip-resistant finishes and inbuilt grab rails provide peace of mind.

Colour

With colour easily added during the sanitaryware manufacturing process, all-white bathrooms are generally a thing of the past.

Black and gold are popular colours – either separate or combined. For example, a jet black bathtub is sure to capture attention in an otherwise neutral bathroom colour scheme.

Designs

Freestanding baths are still in vogue in all materials and sizes.

Ball and claw tubs may be associated with a traditional and classic design, but they also make a strong modern statement.

Sunken bathtubs are very versatile. They can be cladded, placed in existing enclosures, or used in novel recessed placements.

Alcove bathtubs are a cost-effective solution for smaller spaces. However, for a large bathroom without an alcove, these tubs can also be installed with customised cladding.

Corner baths can often accommodate two people, but some are designed for singles.

Bathtubs with jets come in all shapes and sizes, and many are suitable for elderly or disabled bathers.

Luxury bathtubs with exotic designs in modern materials provide the ultimate bathing experience.

A bathroom must be a secure and enjoyable space. A modern, classy bathtub will add much-needed comfort to this space.