Beautiful Baths

There is nothing quite like a good old fashion soak in the tub. With bathrooms now becoming the epicentre of relaxation the humble bath has transformed into a focal point of many bathrooms. Our Mint Kitchen Group experts share their top featuring baths of 2022 and how you can ensure your new bath fits perfectly with your design concept and overall theme.

The art of soaking away your troubles has certainly seen the average bathtub transform over the years. Today we are blessed with ample design concepts, colours (yes, you can have a pink bath!), shapes and sizes. With so many options now available, the question is; what type of bath will best fit your new bathroom? 

The two most popular designs are freestanding tubs and built-in varieties. Freestanding will give you more options as to placement, however, the location of your plumbing does need to come into consideration. A built-in bath can utilise existing plumbing and may not require as much room as the freestanding option.

Regardless of the choice of the tub, all the experts agree that bath can be a wonderful addition to your new bathroom and can create a stunning feature. With all tubs, it’s a good idea to try them before you buy! Ask if you can climb into the tub in the showroom to ensure it’s the perfect fit, not only for your bathroom but also for your body shape. Don’t be fooled, some tubs look much bigger from the outside compared to the actual space when soaking. Freestanding and built-in tubs come in a range of dimensions, lengths, designs, and materials including lighter fiberglass options to heavier stone, porcelain, and cast iron.

Freestanding Baths

The freestanding tub has increased in popularity over the past decade. Today they not only offer a stunning focal point for traditional bathrooms with a classic claw-footed bath but they now come in a huge range of stunning chic designs that are perfect for the modern bathroom as well. From the ultra-modern egg-shaped bathtubs to the oval or square-shaped designs, freestanding bathtubs offer freedom when it comes to design and shape.

What you choose will come down to personal preference, functionality for your needs, and more importantly space. Here’s where a qualified bathroom designer can help you make the best choice for the room and your lifestyle.

Choosing a freestanding bath allows you more creativity when it comes to the shape and placement of your tub. As they are not restricted with wall and cavity space, your bathroom designer will be able to flex their creative muscles, meaning you can literally place the bathtub exactly where you please. From placement in the centre of the space – for that ultra-luxurious feel – or situated near walls or within specially-designed cavities, freestanding bathtubs can make their mark in most bathrooms. Although, it should be noted that a freestanding bath will require more space than built-in options, so this will be an important aspect of your overall design, particularly if you have a smaller space to work with.

Freestanding tubs can also be a huge statement in a huge bathroom! Regardless of your theme, they can add a timeless aspect and a luxurious feel to the entire space. They can be large enough for two people and add a romantic element to any space.

It’s important to note that freestanding tubs can be quite heavy, particularly if you are looking at a porcelain or stone bath. However, many designs now come in fiberglass options while still offering the same stunning appeal. If you are thinking of a bath/shower combo, this can be a challenge with a freestanding bath so do make sure to talk to your bathroom designer about options. If you will have a separate shower, your tapware choice can play a big part in how well the bath functions. Choosing a handheld rinsing showerhead alongside your faucet can allow for ease of rinsing hair while in the bath.

For storage solutions – think all those luxury bits and bobs you will need while soaking – consider specially designed bath caddies or think about clever “set down” spots for candles, wine or other bathing essentials.

Integrated Bathtubs

Built-in tubs are a very popular choice as they offer a huge amount of versatility when it comes to your bathroom. They are also perfectly suited to smaller spaces as they save space by being built to be flush with your bathroom walls.

They also allow for all your plumbing to be easily hidden. If you are considering a built-in bathtub choice, you do not need to compromise on style! Many built-in options are simply stunning and can offer the same luxurious appeal as any freestanding option. It all comes down to your overall theme, and design of the entire space.

Contemplate adding shelving around your built-in option for all your showering and bath products. Some very clever design concepts can allow that important dash of elegance while being incredibly practical. As a bonus, an integrated bath can be much easier to clean.

Terrific Tapware

Whether you’ve chosen a freestanding or a built-in bath design, your tapware can amplify your overall design. From floor-mounted, wall-mounted, or integrated options you can enhance your theme with the huge range of stunning tapware on offer. 

For freestanding baths; floor-mounted options can add to the overall feel, particularly for contemporary designs. However, if you are placing your freestanding close to a wall, you can incorporate wall-mounted options – think at the middle or the end of your bath. With built-in bathtubs, most will benefit from integrated options, particularly if you are doubling your bath with a shower utility. 

With so many beautiful tapware designs available on the market you can find the perfect tapware to complement your overall theme and feel of the space. Adding the finishing touches to your spectacular bathroom concept, be it modern, traditional, or contemporary. 

Bathroom design often starts with the bath so do some research before you attend your design appointment and talk to your specialist bathroom designer about your preferences. At Mint Kitchen Group we specialise in creating dream bathrooms so drop into one of our showrooms today and let’s chat about your plans.