Imagine this: after a long, tiring day at work, you come home to have a well-deserved soak in your huge bathtub that also has a whirlpool function to soften those knots in your muscles. One problem. Your bathroom has never had the space required for a classic tub, so that leisurely bath you just imagined has always been nothing but a daydream.
If it’s the thought of a massive demolition job that is stopping you from pursuing a bathroom remodeling project to install a bathtub, allow us to present an alternative path. Manufacturers have recognized that there is a demand for tubs that fit in smaller spaces, so there is now a variety of small tub options on the market. It’s possible to install the following tubs without knocking down walls to expand the size of your bathroom.
Alcove Bathtub
This type is often the tub of choice for those with limited bathroom space. An alcove bathtub is installed within a three-sided enclosure built specifically for the tub. If the surrounding walls are fitted with tiles or panels, the alcove can be used for a tub/shower combination, which is another space-saving technique.
Drop-In Bathtub
Drop-in bathtubs are shells that “drop into” a prepared deck or platform. The inside of the shell is finished but the outside is built into the surrounding structure. Because a drop-in bathtub provides many opportunities for customization, you can carefully pick the size, materials, and colors to complement the size of the space and the current aesthetic, giving your bathroom a cleaner and more permanent look.
Freestanding Bathtub
Normally only an option for larger rooms, there are now more compact freestanding tubs. Designs range from modern and minimalist to traditional and ornate. Japanese soaking tubs, which are deep tubs with built-in seats, are the smallest freestanding tub options available and have been gaining a solid following in the U.S.
Corner Tub
This type of bathtub is typically placed against a corner, which maximizes the floorspace in the room and allows for better flow. Like freestanding bathtubs, corner tubs were historically reserved for bigger bathrooms, but you can now find designs that are more suitable for limited spaces. This type of bathtub is also compatible with modern functionalities like air and water jets, so you can still make the dream of your very own spa-like bathroom come true.
Before having your heart set on any of these options, consult with a professional contractor in Atlanta or nearby areas. They will provide you with sensible bathtub options that will work with your current space, as well as give you realistic expectations for your bathroom remodeling.
