Bathtub in the bedroom: a good idea?

A bathtub in the bedroom is the boutique experience many dreams of. But should you bring it home, or keep it in the hotel?

It might raise a few eyebrows, but adding a bathtub to the bedroom is a design choice gaining traction among those who want to infuse their sleeping quarters with luxury. But before you take the plunge, let’s explore the pros and cons.

Like all things, logistics come into play and are essential to consider.

While the idea of soaking in a tub steps away from your bed sounds undeniably glamorous, there are practical considerations to bear in mind:

• Proximity to existing plumbing
• Proper drainage below the bathtub
• Whether your floorboards can support the weight of a bathtub and everything else in the space
• Ventilation – a fan or a window to open to prevent dampness and mould

Additionally, storage solutions for bathing essentials like towels and bath bombs should be integrated seamlessly into the bedroom design. Consider an ottoman bed, grand in scale and perfect for fitting towels, bath bombs, and other bathing goodies underneath, and some extra storage to compensate for the space the bath has taken up in the room.

Despite the awkward logistics, there are a few big reasons to bring the bathtub into this space – warmth, comfort, and intimacy.

Despite the practical considerations, there’s a growing allure to incorporating a bathtub into the bedroom. For some, it’s about creating a boutique hotel vibe right at home, elevating the space into a luxurious retreat. Others opt for this setup to reclaim space in a small bathroom, allowing for a more expansive shower or additional storage.

It’s also an excellent way for those without a bathroom adjoined to their master suite to get that en-suite feel. And let’s not overlook the intimacy it can give – a romantic soak for two without ever leaving the comfort of your bedroom.

@suburbanmoods on Tiktok has some fantastic personal insight into their reasons for going down the bedroom bathtub route:

@suburbanmoods How do you feel about a bathtub in the bedroom? #hometour #interiordesigntrends2023 #dreamhome ♬ original sound – Suburbanmoods

As for most interior design trends, some shake their heads at this concept. But why?

The bathtub-in-the-bedroom concept isn’t without its detractors. Safety concerns loom large, as installing a bathtub requires professional expertise rather than amateur DIY. As mentioned, the need for proper ventilation to prevent moisture-related issues like mould and mildew is another drawback. For those who value privacy, having a bathtub in the bedroom means sacrificing a degree of seclusion, especially if the space is shared with a partner.

A bathtub in the bedroom is a unique choice, so don’t let that be where your personal touch ends.

The possibilities are endless when styling a bedroom with a bathtub. For a touch of old-world opulence, consider a Renaissance-inspired aesthetic, complete with rich marble textures and warm pastel hues. Alternatively, embrace the simplicity of Parisian chic with sharp white tiling and a monochromatic palette. Or, change tact altogether and channel California modernism with clean lines and natural light for a breezy, West Coast vibe.

While these are all popular design trends for incorporating a tub into your master suite, let’s explore even more ideas to spark inspiration for your home.

Long summer nights where the sun barely sets, soft waves and sandy tones – bring them all into your bed-bath hybrid.

Incorporate natural elements like driftwood, seagrass, and light, airy colours reminiscent of the seaside. Opt for a bathtub with a freestanding design to evoke a sense of relaxation by the ocean. You can also go for the daytime vibes by adding a day bed, which is especially useful if you have a small bedroom and want to make the most of it or have a smaller ensuite and really want a bath.

Free thoughts, free mind, free design. Whether a throwback, a life creed, or simply a design direction for your bedroom to embrace.

Welcome eclectic patterns, textures, and vibrant colours for a free-spirited vibe. Consider a clawfoot bathtub paired with various vintage rugs, a velvet bed, and colourful tapestries to create a cosy, boho-chic retreat.

No need for clutter; keep things simple, with unspoken elegance.

Keep things sleek and streamlined with clean lines, neutral tones, and minimalist furnishings. Choose a modern bathtub with a simple, understated design to complement the serene atmosphere of the bedroom.

Channel a forest inside your very own bedroom and let nature’s shapes lead the design.

Bring the outdoors in with botanical prints, leafy green accents, and natural materials like wood and stone. Go for a bathtub surrounded by lush greenery or positioned near a large window to maximise views of the surrounding landscape. Pair it with a wooden bed frame with some plant-print throws to really tie things together.

Bring back the heyday into your personal boudoir.

Channel the elegance of yesteryear with vintage-inspired decor and glamorous accents. Blush pink is a great colour for this, invoking the feel of rose-tinted glasses. For a touch of old Hollywood glamour, consider pairing a sleigh bed with a clawfoot bathtub, gilded mirrors, ceiling-height mirrors, and art deco lighting.

Create a Nordic spa bedroom theme with clean, minimal lines.

Embrace the principles of Scandinavian design with clean, minimalist furnishings and a neutral colour palette. Choose a bathtub with a sleek, modern design and accessorise with cosy textiles and minimalist decor for a cosy yet contemporary look.

@the.moycey.manor perfectly incorporates Scandi elements into their bathtub bedroom concept:

@the.moycey.manor Replying to @|Sʜᴀᴅ| HOTEL VIBES 🙌🏻 #masterbedroom #freestandingbath #wallpanneling #blackdoors #firedoor #brasshardware #bespokecarpentry #loftroom #loftextension #loftconversion #bedroomrenovation #bedroomgoals #bedroominspo #bedroomdesign #neutralaesthetic ♬ Caalm Dooown – EL Locco

Bring the city into your home, and let those high-rise vibes steer your style.

Capture the edgy, industrial vibe of a downtown loft bedroom with exposed brick walls, raw concrete floors, leather-like elements and metal accents. A headboard, a bed, and a freestanding bathtub with a matte black finish add a touch of urban sophistication to the bedroom.

Let dopamine décor lead you to an eclectic space all your own.

Mix and match styles, eras, and textures for an eclectic look uniquely yours. Combine vintage finds with contemporary pieces, and don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colours and unexpected pairings to create a bedroom full of personality and charm.

In the end, whether to install a bathtub in your bedroom or not is a personal decision. While there are practical considerations and potential drawbacks to navigate, ultimately, it’s about creating a space that reflects your unique vision and enhances your everyday life.

It’s a good idea to go and try this out in a hotel or boutique spa stay, see how much you use it, and then decide if the idea of a bedroom bathtub speaks to you. If it does? Don’t hesitate to dive in and make it a reality. After all, your home is your sanctuary – make it a place you truly love.