In the market for a new bath? We’re delving into styles, materials and shapes to help you make the perfect choice…

When I first started working at KBB magazine, I wasn’t exactly a bath person. But now? I appreciate their allure: a well-positioned statement bath can make a bathroom scheme, or serve as a practical feature for family spaces.

I also appreciate the ‘art’ of bathing as a means of pampering, a concept as old as the land of the pharaohs – it’s even suggested Queen Cleopatra indulged in daily milk soaks to keep her complexion youthful and fresh. (Perhaps I need to try this skincare!)

So, how do you buy the right bath? From sizes to form, materials, and functionality, we’ve put together a guide on everything there is to know, to help you decide on the one that transforms your space into a serene (and practical) sanctuary.

The materials

Believe it or not, there are many different materials you can buy baths in. Among the most popular is cast iron, known for its sturdiness and ability to retain heat. Keep in mind cast-iron baths are pretty heavy, though, making them more difficult to install.

Other options include fiberglass, acrylic, stone resin, steel, metal (copper, nickel, brass or tin) and wood. “Many baths are made from Lucite, a transparent, rigid form of acrylic known for its durability and versatility,” says Shamila Iqbal, director at Bathroom Mountain. “Acrylic baths are lightweight and generally more affordable than other options. They last well but can be prone to scratching over time.”

Barrie Cutchie, design director at BC Designs, emphasises fibreglass and acrylic’s malleability and insulation – which allows water to stay warm for longer, making them ideal for long soaks.

Meanwhile, stone resin mimics natural stone but is lighter and warmer to the touch. “Stone composite baths tend to be stronger than acrylic and resistant to discolouring and cracking,” adds Nigel Palmer, head of communications and marketing for House of Rohl.

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Steel

Steel baths with a porcelain-enamel coating are also a good choice, as they’re hardwearing and scratch-resistant. “However, steel conducts heat, meaning water cools quickly, while the surface is prone to chipping,” says Barrie.

For eco-conscious bathers, steel is excellent as it’s recyclable, just like cast iron, copper and brass. The last two have antimicrobial properties, as well, and they develop a beautiful patina over time – perfect for vintage-style enthusiasts.

Wood

For a spa-like ambience, try wood (usually cedar, teak or Hinoki) which is ideal for Japanese baths. “Today, homeowners embrace a mix of traditional and modern elements in their bathrooms, which is what makes bath finishes so varied,” Lizzi Catchpole, head of design at Catchpole & Rye, tells me.

Copper

“Copper has a strong following, for example, as it offers a warm, rich tone that exudes sophistication and character. But recently, brass finishes have come into their own, too.” Lizzi suggests copper for a bateau bath as it emphasises its nautical-inspired design, and cast-iron for slipper or roll-top baths, which are more suited to historic and listed buildings.

Which brings us to another key element to consider…

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The bath’s form

When buying a new bath, ask yourself – do you want a model that’s freestanding, back-to-wall or built-in; slipper, boat or roll-top; with legs or without? Think about the impact you want it to make, and ensure there’s enough space to move around it – experts advise leaving at least 76cm of clear space around your tub, particularly on the side you use to access it.

Not being connected to walls or other surfaces apart from the floor, freestanding baths are the ultimate focal point, especially when set in the centre of the bathroom. They can be modern or period-style, sat flush to the floor or with claw or bun feet.

“Whatever the size of your bathroom, a freestanding bath makes a statement, hinting at opulence and spaciousness,” says Adam Teal, country manager at Kaldewei UK. “Moreover, as the pipework is concealed and the taps are freestanding, it can be placed in almost any location.”

Consider the space

Space can often be an issue if you want to buy a freestanding bath, which tends to be on the larger side. This is why back-to-wall models, with one of their sides on the wall, are often a good alternative. “They are ideal for a compact bathroom as they give the appearance of a freestanding bath yet have all the practical advantages of a built-in version,” says Adam.

Nevertheless, if your space is limited but you’re still set on a freestanding bath, there are now a few smaller designs available to buy. Nigel says, “New compact models, such as the Victoria + Albert Baths‘ Amiata, which is just 150cm long, can fit into alcoves where a fitted bath was once the only option. By exposing more floor space, they can also make the room feel larger.”

Freestanding designs

Freestanding designs come in many different shapes, too. There’s (Japanese-style) round, rectangular, or all sorts of curvy. A slipper bath, for example, has a higher curved end that offers extra privacy and helps to keep the water hot for longer. The roll-top style includes a rounded edge along its top rim, which gives it a distinct ‘rolled over’ look.

Then you’ve got the characterful boat or bateau design, popular since the Victorian times. “There’s something undeniably bright and playful about a bateau bath, especially in a brass finish, with its radiant golden hues bringing a touch of joy and vibrancy to contemporary spaces,” says Lizzi. “It’s a lovely option in bathrooms with a more modern edge but it works just as easily in a traditional setting.”

Fitted baths

Finally, for a more straightforward yet elegant option, consider the fitted – or built-in – bath, which is fitted into place on either two or three walls. This makes built-in baths super-practical, as they take up less floor area, while their surround allows for additional storage space on the ledge.

They contain water more easily, too, plus you can add a curtain or glass screen for a ‘shower over bath’ design. To add a bit of flair, Barrie suggests tiling the side of your fitted bath in a striking pattern that either blends in or contrasts the rest of your scheme.

Size and price

A standard bath in the UK is 170cm long and 70cm wide, with a height of 55cm. Compact baths can start from as small as 130cm long and 70cm wide, while large tubs can be 180cm long and upwards, with a diameter of 80cm and above.

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Leanne Robey, senior designer at Ripples Newbury, says, “Acrylic and fitted baths, simple freestanding models, and standard whirlpool options will cost anything from £500 to £1500. For mid-range designer freestanding tubs, stone resin models and advanced whirlpool systems, expect to pay between £1500 and £5000. Luxury, handcrafted stone, copper or cast-iron baths with bespoke finishes and smart features, are priced from £5000 to £10000+.”

The paint and the accessories

When it comes to paint, a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish is moisture resistant, easy to clean, and helps prevent mould and mildew buildup. Or you could opt for an eggshell, oil-based, satin or acrylic paint, depending on your preferences and bathroom design.

“The satin finish diffuses the light for a gentle ambience in the bathroom,” says Nigel. In terms of colour, white is classic, of course, but there’s now a wide range of rainbow-coloured baths to choose from, as well as brands that will create a bespoke model just for you, painted in your favourite hue.

“Combining colour with heritage-inspired baths is a popular choice amongst homeowners,” says Lee Frost, director of Waters Baths of Ashbourne. People are getting creative with their colour choices, too. “We’re seeing bolder, more adventurous palettes and this trend is now complemented by the rising popularity of wallpaper in bathrooms,” says Lizzi. “This dynamic combination works incredibly well, making baths true showpieces.”

For a different yet equally interesting approach, opt for a matt or textured finish (think flutes or natural stone), and bring in oodles of personality. Finally, consider adding bath grips, racks, shelves and even ergonomic pillows, for an effortless, truly relaxing bathing experience.

Smart baths

If you want to get the most out of your soaking experience, why not buy a smart bath, which will offer you anything from hydrotherapy jets to voice or app control functions? Some eco-friendly models come with water-saving properties, too, to reduce your carbon footprint. “There are tubs with reduced capacity, designed to offer full immersion while using less water,” says Leanne.

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“Others have aerated jet systems – these are whirlpool baths that mix air with water to reduce consumption.” And this is only the beginning. “The future bath will blend technology with sustainability; it will also be less about routine and more about creating an immersive, sensory wellness experience at home,” says Leanne.

No matter how much the bath evolves, one thing will stay the same: our need to soak our troubles away inside a tub that cleanses body, mind and soul – so are you ready to buy your dream design?

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