Why Freestanding Tubs Are Trending Again

Freestanding tubs are making a dramatic return to modern bathrooms, and it’s easy to see why. These elegant fixtures, once seen as old-fashioned, are now popular with Chicago homeowners and designers.

The resurgence isn’t just about nostalgia. These sculptural pieces offer a perfect blend of form and function. They can create stunning focal points while delivering the ultimate bathing experience. As we see wellness culture continue to influence home design, freestanding tubs represent more than just a place to bathe. They symbolize a commitment to self-care and relaxation.

Our Areté designers in Chicago are here to help you determine if this timeless feature is the right fit for your space. We believe that every bathroom should inspire and rejuvenate, and a freestanding tub is an excellent way to achieve this goal.

A Brief Soak Through History

Freestanding tubs boast a rich heritage that dates back centuries. The iconic clawfoot tub emerged in the 1880s, quickly becoming a symbol of luxury and sophistication in Victorian homes. These ornate fixtures were crafted from cast iron and featured elaborate feet that elevated both the tub and the room’s aesthetic appeal.

During the mid-20th century, built-in tubs dominated the market as efficiency and space-saving became priorities. The focus shifted to practicality, and freestanding tubs were seen as outdated. For years, they were forgotten and viewed as impractical for modern homes.

However, what goes around often comes around in design. The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw a renewed appreciation for vintage charm and artisanal craftsmanship. Those once-forgotten freestanding tubs began appearing in high-end hotels and luxury homes. This is sparking a revival that continues to gain momentum today.

Why Freestanding Tubs Are Making Waves

Aesthetic Appeal That Commands Attention

Freestanding tubs serve as natural focal points in any bathroom. Their sculptural quality transforms utilitarian spaces into design statements, creating visual interest that built-in alternatives simply cannot match. The space around a freestanding tub creates an airy, open feeling that makes bathrooms appear larger and more luxurious.

These fixtures complement various design styles, from traditional to contemporary. A sleek, modern freestanding tub can anchor a minimalist bathroom, while a vintage-inspired clawfoot model adds character to farmhouse or transitional spaces. This versatility allows homeowners to express their personal style while investing in a timeless feature.

Unmatched Design Flexibility

Unlike built-in tubs that require specific wall configurations, freestanding models offer remarkable placement flexibility. We love the versatility this adds to our bathroom designs. We can position tubs near windows to let in natural light, center them for dramatic effect in a spacious room, or angle them to maximize traffic flow. This adaptability makes them ideal for both large master suites and creatively designed smaller spaces.

The freedom to relocate freestanding tubs during renovations adds another layer of appeal. As your design preferences evolve, you can easily reposition these fixtures without major plumbing overhauls, making them a smart long-term investment.

Wellness and Self-Care Trends

The growing emphasis on wellness has significantly influenced home design choices. Freestanding tubs perfectly align with the desire to create spa-like environments at home. Deep soaking capabilities and ergonomic designs promote relaxation and stress relief, turning daily routines into restorative rituals.

The mindful bathing trend encourages people to disconnect from digital distractions and focus on self-care. Freestanding tubs facilitate this practice by creating dedicated spaces for meditation, aromatherapy, and quiet reflection. This connection to wellness makes them particularly appealing to health-conscious homeowners.

Exploring Design and Style Options

Material Choices That Define Character

Modern freestanding tubs come in an impressive array of materials, each offering distinct advantages and aesthetic qualities. Cast iron remains popular for its superior heat retention and durability, though it requires sturdy floor support due to its weight.

Acrylic options provide excellent insulation while remaining lightweight and affordable. These tubs resist stains and chips while offering smooth, comfortable surfaces that are easy to maintain.

For a touch of luxury, natural stone tubs carved from marble or granite offer unparalleled elegance. While they require specialized care and installation, our Areté team has the expertise to handle it for you.

Copper tubs bring warmth and character to rustic or industrial-themed bathrooms. The material naturally develops a beautiful patina over time, creating unique, ever-evolving finishes that tell stories of use and age.

Shape and Size Variations

Contemporary freestanding tubs embrace diverse shapes and proportions to suit different needs and preferences. Traditional oval designs offer timeless appeal and comfortable soaking positions for most body types. Rectangular models provide clean, modern lines that complement contemporary architecture.

Slipper tubs feature one raised end for enhanced comfort during long soaks, while double-ended designs allow two people to bathe simultaneously. Compact options cater to smaller spaces without sacrificing the freestanding aesthetic, proving that even modest bathrooms can accommodate these striking features.

Finish Options That Reflect Personality

Beyond material choices, finish options allow for extensive customization. Classic white interiors create clean, spa-like atmospheres that work with any color scheme. Bold colored interiors make dramatic statements while maintaining sophisticated appeal.

Exterior finishes range from traditional white to metallic accents, wood treatments, and even custom paint colors. These options enable homeowners to coordinate with existing décor or create eye-catching contrasts that enhance overall design impact.

Practical Considerations for Installation

Space Requirements and Planning

Successful freestanding tub installation requires careful space planning. Most models need at least 6 inches of clearance on all sides for cleaning and maintenance access. Consider the visual weight of your chosen tub and ensure the surrounding space feels balanced rather than cramped.

Floor space isn’t the only consideration. Ceiling height affects the overall proportion and feel of the installation. Higher ceilings can accommodate larger, more dramatic tubs, while standard 8-foot ceilings work better with lower-profile models.

Plumbing Considerations

Freestanding tubs require specific plumbing arrangements that may involve floor or wall-mounted faucets. Floor-mounted options create seamless, sculptural appearances but require accessible plumbing runs beneath the floor. Wall-mounted faucets offer easier maintenance access but need proper wall reinforcement and waterproofing.

Entrusting Areté’s expert professionals ensures meticulous attention to proper drainage, water supply, and structural support. This investment in our proven expertise not only safeguards your beautiful new tub but also protects your home from potential water damage or structural issues, offering you complete peace of mind.

Budget Planning

Freestanding tub projects involve multiple cost components beyond the fixture itself. Installation expenses vary based on plumbing modifications, floor reinforcement needs, and electrical work for surrounding lighting or heated floors.

Quality materials and professional installation represent significant investments, but they also add substantial value to your home. Consider the long-term benefits of enhanced daily experiences and increased property appeal when evaluating costs.

The Future of Luxury Bathing in Your Chicago Bathroom

Freestanding tubs coming back in the fold reflect a fundamental shift toward prioritizing personal wellness and creating meaningful experiences at home. As remote work continues and people spend more time in their living spaces, investing in features that enhance daily life becomes increasingly important.

The versatility, beauty, and wellness benefits of freestanding tubs make them valuable additions to homes of all sizes and styles. Their ability to transform ordinary bathrooms into extraordinary retreat spaces ensures their continued popularity.

Ready to explore how a freestanding tub could transform your bathroom?

At Areté, we specialize in creating custom bathroom designs that reflect your lifestyle and enhance your daily experiences. Our expert team can help you select the perfect freestanding tub and design a space that brings luxury and relaxation into your everyday routine.

Call us at 773.683.3033 or contact us today to embark on your luxury bathroom transformation journey.