Bathing dilemma

bathing dilemmaIn designing a bathroom, it is important to place the tub first, because is typically takes up the most overall space.  For those that enjoy tubs, it’s well worth the space, but for those that don’t, is it necessary to have one?
Many homeowners are choosing to loose the tub altogether in favor of a luxury shower -- and it is a very practical choice, especially when the bathroom is small.
If you plan to live in your home for a reasonable period of time, the resale implications don’t outweigh the comfort of enjoying your bathroom while you dwell in your home.  If a realtor tells you that not having a tub will hurt resale value, then when you decide to sell you can consider installing a tub.

Frequently my clients seem to be designing their house for the next owner, even when they plan to stay in the house for at least 10 years. In 10 years time, most of the home will be subject to change by the next owner anyway, so why not design the house the way you will enjoy it the most while you live there.

Something to consider when deciding to have a tub, is how many bathrooms you have.  If you only have on bathroom, it could be a deterrent for future buyers if the home does not have a tub in the house.  On the other hand if you have at least 2 bathrooms, you have more flexible options.  With 2 baths you can have a tub in one and a grand shower in the other providing the best of both bathing worlds.

Many luxury master bath suites have a grand walk-in shower or a grand tub plus a shower.  Typically the tub is for show, and the shower, not matter how spectacular or insignificant to the tub, is what is used most.

Another element to consider when deciding on removing a tub is the age demographic of the area and your own family’s age.  Recently the roll-in-shower is gaining popularity.  It is large enough that you just roll your wheelchair into the shower, and the floor is graded so that all the water runs down the drain.   These are also great for people who have difficulty with stepping over a standard shower threshold.  In addition to being fully ADA compliant, it makes the bathroom feel a lot larger than a tub does.

Ultimately what it comes down to is what relaxes you the most.  The bathroom should be a place of relaxation and refreshment so whether you find that in a tub or a shower should answer your question.