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April/ May 2023

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South Bay - April/May 2023

Comparing Built-In Versus Freestanding Bathtubs for Your Bathroom Design

SEA Construction offers limitless design solutions for large and small bathrooms.

People often think that a freestanding tub is best for a larger bathroom and a built-in is better suited to smaller space. However, this is a common misconception. In fact, a freestanding bath is often perfect for a smaller space, since you are not restricted by where you position the bath.

Freestanding baths can often easily fit in small alcoves where a built-in bath could not. Due to their shape and occasionally their legs raising the tub off the floor, this also creates the illusion of space.

With a built in bathtub, the real advantage is the space that the surround provides. It can act as storage, seating and mounting space for taps, spouts and hand showers, so the more room you have the better. You can also  panel your bath to match the bathroom furniture.

A built-in bath is also much better suited for adding a shower to, whereas a freestanding tub is usually for bathing only. In recent years however, the emergence of the ‘freestanding shower bath’ means the bath is fixed to the wall along two edges, with the addition of a shower screen. This results in a successful combination of both a fixed and freestanding tub.

A similar alternative is a back to wall bath which offers the luxury of a freestanding bath with the practicality of having it sit flush against your bathroom wall. Designed to be installed in the middle of a wall, it allows extra space on either side for a basin, toilet and furniture.

There are endless possibilities when choosing a bathtub, so don’t feel restricted by your space and style choices. Both freestanding and built-in bathtubs can be adapted to suit your space, and our experienced designers will work with you to create a bathroom that is carefully planned to meet all your needs and design goals. 

SEA Construction is an award-winning Design/Build firm with 30+ years of experience, specializing in additions, full home renovations, and custom kitchens and bathrooms. They have limitless design solutions for large and small bathrooms.

There professional design and build team members will inform and inspire you! To request a quote or ask a question, visit SEA Construction. 

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