Choosing the right bath for your home is a big deal, blending style, comfort, and function. Our easy-to-follow bath guide covers various styles like back to wall, freestanding, boat baths, slipper baths, corner baths, and shower baths. The goal? To help you pick the perfect bath by exploring what each type has to offer. Whether you’re into modern minimalism or classic elegance, there’s a bath that’s just right for you. So, let’s dive in and find the bath that will turn your space into a relaxing retreat.
Understanding Bath Sizes and Space Requirements
When picking out a bath, it’s super important to get the size right and make sure it fits well in your bathroom. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose the perfect dimensions and understand how much water each type can hold.
Whilst there are plenty of items that you can handily and safely by online, we do not recommend doing this with baths. Baths are a substantial purchase and require a lot of thought and discussion ,which is why we would always advise using a trusted recommended retailer to purchase from.
When you’ve finished reading this guide on bath styles, we highly recommend you have a look at our other guide on the various materials baths can come in too READ HERE
Standard Bath Dimensions
Most standard baths commonly range from 1400mm to 1800mm in length and about 700mm to 800mm in width. But these measurements can vary depending on the design. For example, a slipper bath might be deeper than a back-to-wall bath.
Here’s why measuring your bathroom space carefully is a must:
- Ensuring a perfect fit prevents costly remodels.
- You’ll want to get in and out of the bath with ease.
- Make sure there’s enough space around the bath for cleaning and maintenance.
Remember, the size of the bath doesn’t always dictate how comfy it is. Sometimes, a shorter bath can feel just as spacious inside due to its depth and shape.
Bathing Volume
The amount of water a bath holds isn’t just about its length or width but also its shape and depth. A small bath doesn’t necessarily mean a shallow or unsatisfying soak.
Understanding the bathing volume helps you pick a bath that suits your space and needs. Consider your home’s water heating capacity, as bigger baths need more hot water. Also, think about the comfort level—deeper baths often offer a more luxurious soak.
Choosing the right bath means balancing size and water capacity for the perfect bathing experience at home.
Back to Wall Baths
Back to wall baths strike the perfect balance between style and practicality, making them an awesome choice for those looking for both looks and space-saving features. Let’s take a closer look at what makes back to wall baths stand out.
Design and Aesthetics
Back to wall baths sit flush against one wall while still showing off a sleek, finished look on the exposed side. This design allows them to fit seamlessly into different bathroom layouts, giving a clean and modern vibe.
Picture this: You walk into a bathroom where the bath is an elegant part of the design. With smooth lines and minimalist features, these baths are a great fit for contemporary and minimalist styles. Their streamlined look creates a sense of order and calm, perfect for relaxing.
- Modern Appeal: Clean lines and simple forms add a touch of sophistication to any bathroom.
- Versatile Finishes: Available in finishes like glossy white or matte black, they can match almost any color scheme or decor.
- Minimalist Vibe: Their minimalist design reduces visual clutter, making your bathroom feel more spacious.
Space Efficiency
Besides looking great, back to wall baths are amazing at saving space. They’re designed to be installed against a wall, freeing up more floor space compared to freestanding baths. This makes them perfect for smaller bathrooms or those wanting a more open layout.
In a compact bathroom, every inch counts. Back to wall baths make the most of corners and edges, giving you the luxury of a tub without crowding the space. By placing it against a wall, you keep the rest of the bathroom open and accessible.
- Space-Saving Design: Fits snugly against the wall, saving valuable floor space and creating a more open feel.
- Easy to Clean: With one side against the wall, cleaning is easier with fewer nooks and crannies for dust to hide.
- Extra Storage: Use the saved space for storage units or shelves, maximizing every inch.
Choosing a back to wall bath gives you both style and functionality, making it easier to design a spacious, stunning bathroom. Whether your space is small or you’re going for a sleek look, back to wall baths are the perfect solution.
Free Standing Baths
Freestanding baths are the ultimate in elegance, making a statement in any bathroom. They offer not just beauty but also flexibility in placement, making them a top pick for those looking to elevate their bathing experience.
Design Versatility
Freestanding baths are known for their design versatility. From modern to classic, these baths come in styles that suit any preference. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, modern vibe or a vintage-inspired retreat, there’s a freestanding bath that fits the bill.
Often the centerpiece of a bathroom, freestanding baths draw the eye and create a luxurious focal point. With various shapes and materials available, you can easily personalize your space to reflect your style.
- Contemporary Designs: Sleek and minimalistic with clean lines and innovative shapes, perfect for a modern, sophisticated look.
- Classic Styles: Traditional designs with intricate details, ideal for a vintage or elegant bathroom.
- Material Choices: From warm acrylic to robust cast iron or opulent stone, there’s a material to match your taste.
Adding a freestanding bath to your bathroom doesn’t just up the glamour—it gives you creative freedom in your bathroom design.
Installation Considerations
While freestanding baths offer unmatched style, there are some practical things to keep in mind when installing one. Proper installation ensures both safety and functionality.
- Floor Support: Make sure your floor can support the weight of the bath, especially when filled with water. Heavier materials like cast iron or stone may require extra support.
- Assessing Floor Strength: Have a professional check your floor’s strength to handle the load.
- Weight Distribution: Ensure the bath’s weight is evenly distributed, which might mean reinforcing floor joists.
- Plumbing: Since freestanding baths aren’t attached to a wall, the plumbing needs careful planning, including tap placement and drainage.
- Flexible Plumbing: Use flexible plumbing connections to position the bath where you want.
- Drainage Considerations: Plan drainage carefully to avoid water flow issues, possibly raising the bath slightly to allow for proper drain installation.
One of the best things about freestanding baths is the freedom to place them almost anywhere in the bathroom. They don’t have to be tucked away in a corner or up against a wall, giving you more flexibility in your layout.
- Central Placement: Position the bath in the center of the room for a dramatic, spa-like effect.
- Window Views: Place the bath near a window to enjoy a relaxing soak with a view.
- Corner Elegance: Even though they’re freestanding, placing them in a corner with intricate tiling can create a cozy, unique nook.
Choosing a freestanding bath isn’t just about practicality—it’s about making a stylish statement and creating the perfect, relaxing retreat.
Boat Baths
Boat baths bring a unique charm to any bathroom, inspired by the elegance of maritime travel, making a bold style statement.
Historical Influence
Modeled after the shape of a boat, these baths bring to mind the luxury of travel from a bygone era. Just like a well-crafted ship, a boat bath’s sleek, curved design cradles your body as you relax. This careful design combines a sense of adventure with opulence.
The luxurious feel of a boat bath is hard to miss. With high ends and a lower middle, echoing a classic vessel, it’s got a distinct look. The boat bath’s design is tied to rich maritime traditions where form and function blend perfectly.
If you’re after a bath that captures sophistication and timeless style, the boat bath is a great choice. It evokes an era when travel was an art, with attention to every detail.
Comfort and Style
But it’s not just about looks—the shape of a boat bath also offers incredible comfort. The curving walls support your back and head, letting you fully relax. It’s like being enveloped in luxury.
And visually, boat baths are stunning. They come in various finishes, from gleaming porcelain to sleek acrylic, so you can match your taste and bathroom decor. Their elongated shape makes them the focal point of any room, drawing attention and admiration.
Consider these features:
- High Ends: Extra support for your head and neck.
- Curved Design: Natural, comfortable lounging position.
- Material Choices: From traditional cast iron to modern composites, offering both durability and style.
Adding a boat bath to your bathroom isn’t just a style statement; it’s about creating a space where comfort meets aesthetics. It’s perfect for relaxing after a long day or adding unique character to your bathroom.
Slipper Baths
Slipper baths blend timeless elegance with unmatched comfort. With their distinctive high-back design, they offer a relaxing soak—ideal for those who value both style and function.
Ergonomic Design
Slipper baths are designed with ergonomics in mind, making them one of the most comfortable bathtub options out there. The high, sloping back lets you recline naturally, providing excellent support for your neck and shoulders. This ergonomic design is perfect after a long day, helping to ease muscle tension and promote relaxation.
Think of the ergonomic perks:
- Natural Recline: The high back supports a comfy, slightly reclined position.
- Enhanced Support: Superior neck and back support to reduce strain.
- Relaxation Boost: Encourages relaxation, ideal for long, soothing baths.
The shape of slipper baths hugs your body, letting you fully unwind, making bath time a truly luxurious experience.
Aesthetic Appeal
Slipper baths are famous for their vintage charm and elegance. They evoke timeless beauty, reminiscent of classic Victorian bathrooms. Their graceful curves and luxurious finishes make them a standout piece in any bathroom, adding both style and sophistication.
Here’s what to consider:
- Vintage Vibes: Perfect for a traditional or vintage-inspired bathroom.
- Classic Elegance: Enhances the overall look with a touch of sophistication.
- Versatile Placement: Looks stunning in both corner and central positions.
Slipper baths come in different finishes, from classic white to modern hues, letting you match them with your bathroom’s decor. Whether you’re going for a classic or contemporary look, a slipper bath can elevate your bathroom’s aesthetic.
So, if you’re looking for a bath that combines comfort and style, a slipper bath is a great choice. Its ergonomic design ensures a relaxing soak, while its timeless elegance adds charm to any bathroom.
Corner Baths
Corner baths are an excellent choice for making the most of limited space without compromising on comfort or style.
Space-Saving Design
One of the main benefits of corner baths is their space-saving design. They fit neatly into a corner, using areas that might otherwise go to waste. This design frees up floor space, making your bathroom feel more spacious and organized.
Imagine this in a smaller bathroom:
- Efficient Use of Space: Fits perfectly into corners, making use of otherwise underused space.
- Open Feel: By freeing up central floor space, it makes the bathroom feel larger.
- Accessibility: Easier to get in and out of, especially in smaller spaces.
This makes corner baths ideal for smaller bathrooms or when you want to maximize the available space. Despite their compact design, they don’t skimp on comfort, offering a relaxing bathing experience.
Design Variety
Corner baths come in a variety of designs, allowing you to find one that suits your style and needs. From simple, understated designs to more luxurious, spa-like options, there’s something for everyone.
Consider these options:
- Jacuzzi Features: Some corner baths come with built-in jets for a spa-like experience.
- Asymmetric Designs: Adds a modern, artistic touch to your bathroom.
- Dual-Person Designs: Some larger corner baths are designed for two, adding a romantic element to your bathroom.
Whether you want a simple soak or a more luxurious experience, there’s a corner bath design to match your preferences.
Shower Baths
Shower baths offer the best of both worlds by combining the convenience of a shower with the relaxation of a bath. They’re an excellent choice for those who want flexibility in their bathing routine.
Dual Functionality
One of the main advantages of shower baths is their dual functionality. They allow you to switch between a quick shower and a long, relaxing bath, depending on your mood and schedule.
Here’s how they work:
- Quick Showers: Ideal for busy mornings when you need to get ready quickly.
- Relaxing Baths: Perfect for unwinding after a long day.
The dual functionality of shower baths makes them a practical choice for any bathroom, especially for those with limited space.
Design Considerations
Shower baths come in various designs to suit different needs and styles. Some are straight with a shower screen at one end, while others are P-shaped or L-shaped to provide more space for showering.
Think about:
- Space for Showering: P-shaped or L-shaped designs offer more room for comfortable showering.
- Safety Features: Non-slip surfaces and grab bars can be added for safety.
- Glass Screens: Enhance the look and keep the water contained within the bath.
Choosing the right shower bath design is about balancing the space available with your daily needs. Whether you’re looking for something simple or more luxurious, there’s a shower bath to suit your style.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right bath style involves balancing your personal taste with the practical needs of your space. Whether you’re drawn to the clean lines of a back-to-wall bath, the elegance of a freestanding bath, or the space-saving design of a corner bath, there’s a perfect option for you. Consider your bathroom size, desired comfort level, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. With the right bath, you can transform your bathroom into a relaxing retreat that reflects your style and meets your needs.
Don’t forget to head over to our accompanying guide on bath materials , if you need any more information on the Border Bath range shown in this article, contact our recommended retailer below and ask them about Border Baths.
