Are you dreaming of a luxurious bathroom but worried about limited space? Don’t let a small bathroom crush your dreams of having a beautiful freestanding tub. With some clever design tricks, you can fit a round freestanding tub into even the tiniest bathrooms. Let’s explore how to make this work and create a stunning bathroom oasis, no matter the size.
Why Choose a Round Freestanding Tub?
Round freestanding tubs are a great choice for small bathrooms. They take up less space than rectangular tubs but still offer a touch of luxury. These tubs can fit into tight corners or awkward spaces where traditional tubs won’t work. Plus, they look amazing!
A round tub can make your bathroom feel bigger and more open. It doesn’t have sharp corners, so it’s easier to move around in a small space. And let’s be honest – there’s something special about a freestanding tub. It’s like having your own personal spa at home.
You can put a round tub almost anywhere in your bathroom. This flexibility is perfect for small spaces where every inch counts. Whether it’s in a corner, against a wall, or even in the center of the room, a round tub can work in many different layouts.
Before You Start: Check Your Space
Before you buy a tub, you need to know your bathroom inside and out. Get out a tape measure and write down the size of your bathroom. Don’t forget to measure doorways too – you need to make sure you can get the tub into the room!
Next, look at where your plumbing is. Moving pipes can be expensive, so it’s often easier to put your tub near existing plumbing. But don’t worry if that’s not possible – a plumber can help you figure out the best solution.
Also, think about light and air in your bathroom. A tub near a window can create a lovely bathing experience. Good ventilation is important too, to prevent mold and keep the air fresh.
Picking the Perfect Tub
When it comes to choosing your tub, size matters. Round tubs come in different diameters, usually between 4 and 6 feet. Measure your space carefully to find the right fit. Don’t forget about height – some tubs are deeper than others, which can affect how they look and feel in your space.
Tubs come in different materials too. Acrylic tubs are light and affordable. Stone resin tubs look sleek and modern. Cast iron tubs are classic and long-lasting, but they’re heavy – make sure your floor can support the weight.
Style is important too. Classic clawfoot tubs add a vintage touch. Modern pedestal tubs look sleek and simple. There are lots of designs to choose from, so you can find one that matches your bathroom’s style.
Smart Layout Ideas
Where you put your tub can make a big difference in a small bathroom. Here are some ideas to try:
Corner Placement: Tucking your tub into a corner is a great way to save space. It leaves more room in the middle of the bathroom for moving around. You can add shelves or plants around the tub to create a cozy nook.
Center Stage: If your bathroom is a bit bigger, you might be able to put the tub in the middle. This looks amazing and gives your bathroom a luxurious feel. It works best if you have enough space to walk around the tub easily.
Against the Wall: Putting your tub against a wall is a good compromise. It saves space but still shows off the tub’s shape. You can add a small table or shelf next to the tub for candles or bath products.
Remember, the right placement depends on your specific bathroom. Try drawing different layouts on paper to see what works best for you.
Tricks to Save Space
When you’re working with a small bathroom, every inch counts. Here are some tricks to make the most of your space:
Wall-Mounted Fixtures: Instead of a floor-standing faucet, try a wall-mounted one. It saves floor space and looks sleek. You can do the same with shelves and cabinets – mounting them on the wall keeps the floor clear and makes the room feel bigger.
Multi-Use Furniture: Look for pieces that serve more than one purpose. A storage ottoman can hold towels and give you a place to sit. A ladder shelf can store toiletries and hang towels.
Smart Storage: Built-in storage is your friend in a small bathroom. Recessed shelves in the walls don’t take up any floor space. An over-tub tray gives you a spot for soap and a glass of wine without needing extra furniture.
These small changes can make a big difference in how spacious your bathroom feels, even with a new tub taking up space.
Making Your Bathroom Look Bigger
Even if your bathroom is small, you can make it feel bigger with some clever design tricks:
Colors Matter: Light colors make a room feel more open. White, cream, and pale gray are good choices. But don’t be afraid of color – a few pops of bright color can add personality without making the space feel smaller.
Mirrors Are Magic: A big mirror can make your bathroom look twice as big. Try a wall-to-wall mirror above your sink, or add a full-length mirror to a door.
Let There Be Light: Good lighting is key in a small space. If you have a window, make the most of it. For artificial light, use a mix of overhead lights and wall sconces to brighten up every corner.
These simple changes can make your small bathroom feel much more spacious, even with a new tub in place.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Once your tub is in place, it’s time to add some style. But remember, in a small space, less is often more. Here are some ideas:
Keep It Simple: Don’t clutter the space around your tub. A few well-chosen items look better than lots of knick-knacks.
Functional Can Be Pretty: Choose accessories that look good and serve a purpose. A sleek towel warmer keeps your towels handy and adds a luxe touch. A pretty plant stand can hold your bath products and add some greenery.
Spa Vibes: Create a relaxing atmosphere with soft towels, scented candles, and maybe a small waterproof speaker for music. These little touches can make your bathroom feel like a high-end spa.
The key is to add things that make your bathing experience better without taking up too much space.
Real-Life Examples
Let’s look at how these ideas work in real bathrooms:
Modern Minimalist (5×8 feet): In this narrow bathroom, a round tub fits perfectly at one end. The rest of the fixtures are wall-mounted to save space. A large mirror and all-white color scheme make the room feel bigger.
Vintage Charm (6×6 feet): This square bathroom uses a corner tub with classic clawfoot style. Pale blue walls and white fixtures keep things light. A pedestal sink and wall-mounted storage save floor space.
Luxury in a Small Package (7×7 feet): This bathroom puts the tub in the center, with a chandelier above for drama. Mirrors on two walls make the space feel much larger. Recessed shelves provide storage without cluttering the room.
These examples show how different styles can work in small spaces. The key is to plan carefully and make every element count.
Solving Common Problems
Small bathrooms can present challenges, but there are solutions:
Tight Spaces: If your bathroom is very narrow, consider an oval tub instead of a round one. It gives you the freestanding look but fits better in a long, narrow space.
Odd Shapes: If your bathroom has a strange layout, a round tub can actually help. Its shape is more forgiving than a rectangular tub, so it can fit into awkward corners or nooks.
Budget Worries: Freestanding tubs can be pricey, but there are affordable options. Look for acrylic tubs or wait for sales. Remember, a beautiful tub can be a selling point if you ever move.
With some creativity, you can overcome most small bathroom challenges.
Keeping It Clean
A clean bathroom feels bigger and more luxurious. Here are some tips for maintaining your new tub and small space:
Quick Daily Clean: A quick wipe-down of your tub after each use prevents soap scum build-up. This is easier in a small space where everything is within reach.
Smart Storage: Keep cleaning supplies close at hand but out of sight. A small caddy under the sink can hold everything you need.
Regular Deep Cleans: Set aside time each week for a thorough clean. In a small bathroom, this shouldn’t take long, but it makes a big difference.
Good habits keep your bathroom looking great and make cleaning less of a chore.
Wrapping It Up
Adding a round freestanding tub to a small bathroom might seem challenging, but it’s definitely possible. With careful planning and some creative thinking, you can create a luxurious bathing experience even in a tiny space.
Remember, the key points are:
- Measure carefully and choose the right size tub
- Think creatively about layout
- Use space-saving tricks like wall-mounted fixtures
- Make the room look bigger with light colors and mirrors
- Add thoughtful accessories to create a spa-like feel
Don’t let a small bathroom stop you from having the tub of your dreams. With these tips, you can create a beautiful, functional space that feels much bigger than it is. Happy bathing!
