Freestanding vs Built-in Baths: Pros and Cons

Picture this: you come home after a long day. You’re tired and ready to unwind. You walk into the bathroom, reach over to the tap, and begin to fill your bathtub. You watch longingly as the water spills into the bath. You’re ready to sit back, relax, and soak away the troubles of the day…

In this vision, what bath did you picture? Was it a luxurious freestanding bath or a cosy built-in option?

Although a dream about your perfect bath might not be the best way to decide, this guide might just help. The choice you make when it comes to a bathtub can dramatically impact both the functionality and overall aesthetics of your space, so choosing the right one is crucial (no pressure!). Whether you're creating an opulent spa-like retreat with a luxury freestanding bath or a practical family bathroom with a built-in single ended bath, selecting the right type is an important choice.

One of the most common decisions homeowners face is choosing between a freestanding and a built-in bath. While both options offer unique advantages and potential drawbacks, only one can win.

In this guide, we'll help you navigate the world of freestanding vs built-in baths by comparing the pros and cons. So, whether you’re seeking a bold centrepiece or a compact space-saving design, read on to find the best type of bath for your bathroom.

What Is a Freestanding Bath?

A freestanding bath is exactly what it sounds like: a bathtub that stands alone in the room, unattached to walls or built-in enclosures. Sitting directly on the floor, these opulent centrepieces are often considered a symbol of luxury. They can serve as both a functional amenity and a stunning focal point.

Freestanding tubs come in a wide variety of styles, including:

• Roll-top baths: Classic design with curled edges and claw feet.
• Slipper baths: Elevated at one or both ends for added comfort.
• Modern oval tubs: Sleek, minimalist, and often made of stone or acrylic.

These tubs are particularly suited to larger bathroom suites, where their sculptural design can shine without crowding the space. They work particularly well in luxury ensuite bathroom suites or designer bathrooms, aiming for high visual impact.

What Is a Built-in Bath?

A built-in bath, also known as an inset bath, is installed against a wall or into a corner, typically with bathroom wall panels or bathroom tiles surrounding them. These tubs are the most common choice in family bathrooms and compact spaces.

Although arguably less luxurious than a freestanding bath, built-in baths offer their own unique advantages, including practical, space-saving benefits. Many are combined with additional features, including shower baths, making them incredibly versatile for both bathing and showering.

Because they’re fitted flush to the walls, they make efficient use of space and are easier to integrate into smaller layouts. Storage units, bath panels, or tiled ledges can also be added around built-in tubs for enhanced functionality.

Built-in baths boast a variety of styles:

• Alcove baths: Fitted into a three-wall recess, ideal for small bathrooms and often combined with showers.
• Drop-in baths: Installed into a built frame or surround, offering a clean, customisable look.
• Undermount baths: Similar to drop-in but with the rim concealed beneath the deck surface for a seamless finish.
• Corner baths: Triangular or fan-shaped to fit into corners, saving wall space and often used in larger bathrooms.
• Spa or whirlpool baths: Built-in tubs with water jets for relaxation and hydrotherapy.
• Shower-bath combos: Baths with a built-in shower, commonly L-shaped or P-shaped to provide more standing room.
• Walk-in baths: Designed with a door for easy access, suitable for those with limited mobility, and often featuring built-in seating.

Freestanding vs Built-in Baths: Pros and Cons

Freestanding Bath - Pros:

• Luxurious, spa-like appearance
• Flexible placement (centre of room or angled - the choice is yours!)
• Wide range of shapes and materials available

Freestanding Bath - Cons:

• Requires more space
• More expensive to buy and install
• Exposed plumbing may need rerouting

Built-in Bath - Pros:

• Great for small bathrooms
• Cost-effective solution
• Easier to combine with a shower or storage

Built-in Bath - Cons:

• Less lavish visually
• Fixed placement
• Can feel more standard or conventional

Which Bath Type Is Right for You?

Factors to Consider Before You Buy

Choosing the best bath for your home isn’t just about looks. Here are several key factors to weigh before making a decision:

1. Bathroom Size & Layout

Freestanding baths work best in larger spaces where there’s room to move around the tub, whereas built-in baths are a smart solution for compact bathrooms or awkward layouts. If you’re looking for a bath to fit a cloakroom or ensure, a built-in bath is probably your best choice.

2. Who Will Use the Bath?

If you’re a family with children, you may prefer built-in tubs for ease of bathing kids and combining with a shower. On the other hand, a luxury-pursuing couple might enjoy the elegance of a freestanding bath.

3. Budget & Plumbing

Built-in baths are overall the more budget-friendly option both in product and installation. If you’ve got a bit more room to splash the cash, freestanding tubs often require special plumbing and floor reinforcement, increasing costs.

4. Style Preference

Freestanding baths are perfect for creating both a classic and contemporary centrepiece. But if simplicity is your thing, built-in tubs support a clean, minimalist look or are ideal if you’re after a cohesive, tiled aesthetic.

5. Resale Value & Accessibility

A stylish freestanding bath can significantly boost resale appeal in luxury homes but with their slippery roll top designs and high sides, they can be a less accessible option. Although built-in baths may not increase your home’s value, with low sides and potential integrated showers, they may be better for universal access needs.

Freestanding or Built-in - The Choice is Yours

When it comes to the freestanding vs built-in bath debate, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both types have their strengths, and the right choice depends on your space, style, and personal desires.

If you’re looking to make a bold visual statement and have the space and budget to match, a freestanding bath could be your perfect match. But if you’re after something compact, cost-effective, and highly functional, a built-in bath may be the smarter option.

Whichever you choose, make sure it fits your lifestyle and bathroom design. Consulting with a bathroom renovation specialist can help ensure your chosen tub complements your space and plumbing setup.

Upgrade your Bath Today

Ready to upgrade your bathroom? Explore Plumbworld and discover our extensive range of baths. From beautiful freestanding designs to classic straight baths, the possibilities are (almost) endless.

If you're looking for further inspiration, take a look at the following posts - The Complete Freestanding Baths Guide - Shower Baths Buying Guide - Corner Baths Buying Guide.