Find the right style of bathtub to complement your sanctuary
Historically, the bath was a large metal tub, placed in front of the kitchen fire, serving the purely functional role of cleaning the family and staving off illness. Today, however, the bath is so much more than just a place to wash. The right design will become the backbone of your scheme while also providing a private sanctuary in which you can wash away the stresses of the day.
As well as thinking about your bath’s style, it is important to think about the practicalities of the design – something often overlooked. ‘When choosing a new bath, it is vital to check its weight. Factor in the weight of the water and yourself, too,’ explains Barry Cutchie, founder of BC Designs. ‘Another key consideration is whether or not your boiler has the capacity to generate enough hot water to fill a larger bath. Have a look at your boiler manual or if you are still unsure ask a plumber.’
Standing firm
Left: Considered a luxury in the late 19th century, the clawfoot bath was the epitome of bathing opulence, with its curvaceous silhouette and eye-catching feet. However, its popularity came to a crashing halt, as during the 1920s flu epidemic, people falsely came to view the space under the tub as unclean.
Thankfully, this beautiful design has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. It has been especially welcomed into period bathrooms as designs with adjustable legs are easy to level on an old uneven floor.
‘Clawfoot tubs are a beautiful addition to a bathroom, but the key thing is to ensure you have enough space. Since they float above the floor, they typically look best as a central feature in a larger room rather than pressed into a tight corner,’ advises Amy Leferink, designer at Interior Impressions, who designed this stunning bathroom.
Heritage design
Left: Coming to prominence in the Victorian era, the slipper bath was designed to protect modesty in communal bathhouses. The name comes from the fact that when a towel is draped over the flat edges to cover the body, it gives the bath a slipper-like appearance. A collaboration between interior designer Susie Atkinson and luxury brand Drummonds, this Whitewater design combines traditional style with a more modern pastel colourway. It is priced from £4,692 for a painted exterior and no drilled overflow.
All at sea
Right: The boat bath, or bateau bath, is named after its silhouette, which is reminiscent of a traditional fishing boat. Effectively a double-ended slipper bath, it gives you the option to bathe at either end, offering excellent support and comfort. ‘A freestanding boat bath can be a real show-stopper and instant focal point, working as a chameleon to blend into contemporary and traditional bathroom schemes alike,’ says Barry Cutchie from BC Designs. The brand
