Bathrooms

How to choose the right freestanding bath – what's the style for you?

Do you like a classic or contemporary kind of bath beauty?

The rising popularity of freestanding baths comes as no surprise, as they have always represented a luxury supposedly only found in spas and hotels. Investing in a freestanding bath will not only visually transform your bathroom to create an indulgent sanctuary, but also enhance the bathing experience.

But how do you choose the right bath for your home? As well as bathroom trends, think about the style of your home decor and what would sit seamlessly within it. Thankfully, bathroom specialists Ashton & Bentley are on-hand to give us their expert tips on getting the tub for you.

(Image credit: Ashton & Bentley)

'Freestanding baths are commonly associated with luxury and can be a real statement piece in the bathroom – now, with a whole range of designs available and advances in manufacturing, there’s a style to suit every budget,' says Edward Carey, Managing Director at Ashton & Bentley.

'With the introduction of flexible pipe fittings and push fit connections, free-standing baths can actually be easier to install than other styles of bath.

'Colour is also a big influencer, which is why we have such a vast array of colour choices, offering traditional paint and modern high-gloss finishes for our baths. A freestanding bath can be customised to create a modern or traditional finish, or the two styles can be mixed (i.e. a modern finish on a traditional-style bath). The options are so flexible, it can be customised to your scheme.'

Freestanding baths - how to choose the right one for your home

THE CLASSIC LOOK

'A traditional freestanding bath will never go out of style,' says Edward. 'If space restrictions are no concern, placing the bath in the centre of the bathroom truly creates an eye catching focal point with guaranteed impact.

'Perfectly matching bathrooms with period features such as original floorboards, sash windows and high ceilings, our traditional offerings includes a number of designs inspired by the late 19th and early 20th century.'

Boasting traditional Victorian charm with their rolltops and ball and claw feet, the Corinthian and Athena baths are ideal to add timeless elegance to a classic space.

Freestanding baths

The Corinthian.
(Image credit: Ashton & Bentley)

A MODERN STATEMENT

For those looking for a new bath to bring modern beauty into the bathroom, choose a contemporary tub with clean lines and sleek curves.

'The addition of a modern bath such as the Cella can completely refresh the scheme with a pared-back, stylish aesthetic, aiding feelings of calm and relaxation typical of a spa,' says Edward.

How to choose the right freestanding bath

The Cella.
(Image credit: Ashton & Bentley)

THE SPACE SAVER

'Freestanding baths don’t need to be imposing to bring luxury to the bathroom,' says Edward. 'Though most assume a freestanding bath is only suitable for ample spaces, there are smaller options, so homeowners with compact bathrooms can enjoy the indulgence too.'

The Lefka is a stylish, modestly-sized option for modern living. With its unique asymmetrical form and small footprint, it will provide ultimate comfort without overpowering the bathroom.

Easily installed against a wall or in the corner of the room, freestanding baths can be a versatile solution that not only saves space, but also allows for a shower to be added above the bath for extra functionality.

The Lefka.
(Image credit: Ashton & Bentley)

See: This Art Nouveau apartment delights with a statement green Drummonds bathroom

Contributing Editor

Ruth Doherty is an experienced digital writer and editor specializing in interiors, travel and lifestyle. With 20 years of writing for national sites under her belt, she’s worked for the likes of Livingetc.com, Standard, Ideal Home, Stylist and Marie Claire as well as Homes & Gardens.