When we think about designing most rooms in a home, the layout will often include a statement piece of furniture. It’s a source to focus the eye, and sets the design tone of the space. This is equally important in a bathroom, although many people forget it. In order for a bathroom to work functionally, we need to have specific tools and utilities and a bathtub is one of these. It’s so easy to get distracted by functionality in a bathroom design and neglect the aesthetic principles that make a beautiful room. So, why not make your bathtub a statement piece?
The Appeal of a Unique Design
The right shape and design can infuse your bathroom with a spa-like atmosphere, turning a functional space into an indulgent retreat. A statement bathtub isn’t simply about looks; it’s about creating a mood. Whether it’s a freestanding tub that evokes timeless elegance or a sunken option that feels indulgently tranquil, unusual bathtub designs are able to really elevate your room. They have visual impact, are more relaxing and indulgent to use, and direct the nuance of all your other design decisions.
Bathtub Shape Inspiration
Selecting a bathtub is exciting, but with so many styles available, it’s important to understand the options. Each shape creates a different look and feel, offering various aesthetic and functional benefits. Try to be clear about the overall concept that you want for your bathroom before you choose your bathtub.
Freestanding Bath
The freestanding bath is an enduring favourite in luxury bathrooms. With its striking silhouette, it can fit into both minimalistic and ornate designs. Available in multiple styles; rectangle, roll top, bateau, claw-footed, slipper, or a combination of these, it’s a versatile choice brimming with opportunity. Ideal for larger bathrooms, it creates a natural focal point.
Sunken Bath
A sunken bath exudes tranquillity, often making you feel as though you’ve stepped into a private spa. Perfectly suited for a sleek, modern aesthetic, sunken baths can be customised to blend seamlessly with stone or tile surrounds.
Corner Bath
Great for smaller bathrooms or awkward layouts, corner baths are efficient without sacrificing style. With their space saving designs, these tubs can be surprisingly luxurious when paired with thoughtful lighting and complementary decor.
Jacuzzi Bath
Jacuzzi style baths might be any shape really, the difference is in the addition of water jets. With this extra spa style functionality comes a certain level of maintenance requirement, so make sure that you’re up for this before you plump for a jacuzzi.
Oversized Bath
From round shapes to extra depth or extra width, an oversized bath is a real visual and functional statement. It set the priority of the room to be indulgence and relaxation. It might be a practical thing too – maybe there are triplets who need bathing or you’re a really tall family!
Slipper or Bateau Bath
These irregularly shaped baths, with raised ends or boat-like designs, evoke classic elegance and comfort. Simple lines are strikingly modern and minimalist, while ornate details and traditional materials are perfect for period inspired bathrooms.
Square Bath
Square baths are pretty unusual, since they’re not ideal for lying down unless they’re oversized. With extra depth, they work to give a spa-like plunge pool feel which is luxurious while optimising limited floor space.
Other Bathroom Statement Features
Maybe a statement bathtub isn’t for you. Or perhaps you want to explore other complementary ways to add character to your bathroom design.
Recessed LED Lighting
Lighting is such a versatile way to add depth to a design. Subtle lighting around a built-in bath creates a calming mood. Recessed shelving with underlit LEDs is both practical alongside a bath (and elsewhere in the room) and adds lighting levels to the space.
Walk-In Shower
If you have a large bathroom space, you might choose to pair your statement tub with a chic, frameless walk-in shower for a touch of modern luxury. Alternatively, some people dispense with a bathtub entirely and choose their shower to be the focus of their bathroom.
Feature Mirrors
Every bathroom needs a mirror, it’s up to you how dramatic to go! A large mirror strategically placed can amplify the space, create light, and complement the overall design. Lit mirrors automatically draw the eye, and oversized or unusually shaped mirrors add character.
Walls, floors and splashbacks
You might go for a marble drench, where you use the same finish on walls and floors to create a sense of luxurious infinity. Or perhaps create a feature wall or splashback with unusually patterned tiles. By using premium materials like marble or designer ceramics draws attention to the craftsmanship of the space and enhances its timeless appeal.
Architectural Highlights
If you’re lucky enough to have authentic architectural features in your bathroom space, use these to create a focal point. From exposed beams to original fireplaces to nooks and crannies, our designers at Stone & Chrome are expert at incorporating these features with bespoke solutions.
Make the most of a showroom
The internet is a wonderful thing, with Pinterest boards and access to infinite images and ideas. However, there’s nothing quite like seeing a piece of furniture with your own eyes, touching it and understanding its dimensions. This is why we advise a visit to our showroom at Stone & Chrome. You’ll get a real world understanding about how different styles of furniture might fit together, and the ambience that they create. We’re there to chat as well, so you can explore ideas and concepts, no matter how early on in the process you might be.
Our designers have an encyclopaedic knowledge of the most interesting, unique, and indulgent bathtub shapes out there. We want your bathroom spaces to be beautifully designed as well as super functional. Just get in touch to turn your ideas into reality.