Freestanding bathtubs: varieties, recommendations for choosing

Freestanding bathtubs win the hearts of many people. At one time, they seemed to be an element of luxury, but today they are considered the key components of stylish bathroom interiors. The material in this article will tell you about what they are, what are their advantages and disadvantages. In addition, we will note a number of points on the selection of products, indicating their dimensions, materials of manufacture, and also shape.

A freestanding bathtub differs from its classical counterpart in a number of nuances. For example, these are engineering features that are thought about at the stage of creating a design project. Install such a bath near the wall (not close) or in the center of the bathroom. The freestanding bathtub features access from all sides.

These models are fitted with separate shower bases. The mixer is located on the sidewalls. The place for installation is selected taking into account the aesthetic and practical aspects of the layout of the room.

Ideally, the distance from the wall and other objects should be at least half a meter. In this case, it is necessary to adhere to an axial or asymmetrical interior composition. Less often, such a bath is installed in a niche, keeping the required distance.

A feature of these modifications is placement of the sewer supply and water supply pipes in the floor... There is no space under the free-standing bathtub for installing a siphon and communications. Many models require a pit during installation. Other bowls are demanding on the floor's ability to support a lot of weight.

A freestanding bathtub has several advantages. For example:

• in most cases, it can be installed anywhere in the bathroom; installation is possible both in a city apartment and in a private house;
• it gives the interior of the bathroom a European chic, raises its status;
• the product is variable in size, due to which you can choose an option for a room of any size;
• models are distinguished by a variety of forms, which is good for arranging bathrooms with a different perspective;
• a free-standing bowl visually enlarges the boundaries of the room, introduces space into it;
• you can relax in it, lie down, it is suitable for people of different ages and complexions;
• the product allows for a different type of installation: if you do not like the design with supports, they build a podium.

The big advantage is the supply of different functionalities to the models. Besides bathing, they are suitable for medicinal baths and spa treatments. Modifications often include head restraints and footrests.

Depending on the type of product, the key option for the buyer may be:

• hydromassage, provided by the pressure of water supplied through the jets;
• air massage - an option of a similar type, in which the air flow is supplied through the side nozzles;
• lumbar massage - option of soft water massage, provided by micro-jets and lower water pressure;
• ozonation or disinfection and saturation of water with fine air bubbles;
• drying, necessary to prevent the appearance of harmful microorganisms;
• disinfection, which is the prevention of contamination and works by means of nozzles;
• lighting that allows you to create a special atmosphere for relaxation.

Besides, Options may include waterproof control panels.

However, along with the advantages, freestanding bathtubs have several disadvantages. For example, in addition to weight, there is a high purchase and transportation cost. The nuance is also unpleasant that install models in large rooms. There is often not enough space in a small installation room.

The price for the installation is also different: it is significantly higher than the installation of conventional counterparts.... The installation should be carried out by a highly qualified specialist, which also increases the overall repair costs. Due to the large weight, these modifications are undesirable to buy in apartments of old houses with wooden floors.

The disadvantage of models with legs is the high risk of overturning. Difficulties also arise with the maintenance of engineering systems. Such bowls are difficult to insulate, and surfaces open on all sides give off more heat. From this, the water cools down much faster, you have to turn on the hot one again. And this already leads to an increase in the amount of water.

Displacement of the bowl during operation of lightweight models is not excluded. This can compromise the tightness in the area of ​​the sewer and water pipe connections and lead to leaks. Some users are confident that in terms of ease of use, freestanding bathtubs are inferior to conventional wall-mounted counterparts.

The installation of a freestanding bathtub is thought out in such a way that so that there is access to communications from behind. This is what makes them difficult to install in small rooms. Installation of fonts is quite laborious, because in addition to preparatory work, it is necessary to construct supports in the thickness of the floor. Without them, it is impossible to get to communications and conduct them.

Sometimes, before installation, you have to level the floor using small supports. If it is not planned to install the bathtub on feet-legs, it is built into the floor. Besides, for installation, podiums are often built, in which the supplied communications are hidden.

However, this design is inferior in aesthetic characteristics to fonts on beautiful supports. Built-in bathtubs and catwalk modifications appear more massive.And if fonts on the legs are used in pompous stylistic interiors (for example, baroque, classics), then these options are good for the embodiment of modern interior design.

Most often, baths are installed as close as possible to the piping. Communications can be conducted behind a decorative screen. The floor should be stone or tiled.

Today, freestanding bathtubs are made from different raw materials. In production use cast iron, steel, artificial and natural stone (for example, marble), as well as acrylic and even glass. Each type of material has its own characteristics, which is reflected in the quality and performance characteristics of products.

For example, cast iron bathtubs are the heaviest, their design can be both old and modern. They are also bought for the implementation of ultra-fashionable solutions, because they are durable and affordable in terms of cost. However, they are heavy and difficult to transport and install.

Acrylic counterparts are distinguished by a democratic price, high technical characteristics, and a rich range of models. They are variable in terms of sizes, colors and designs, have a pedestal and a screen. They weigh less than their cast iron counterparts, the service life is designed for no more than 10-15 years. It is on these baths that the whole body cannot be relied on from one side.

Steel models weigh more than acrylic ones, but less than cast iron ones. They are reasonable in price, have an optimal service life (with proper care, they can last about 25 years). They are covered not only with enamel, but also with polymers. The disadvantages of such bowls are high thermal conductivity, low sound insulation and weight.

Artificial stone bathtubs are strong and durable. They play a key role in bathroom interiors, becoming design accents. However, they have to be selected more carefully than other options. The disadvantage of such products is the rather high cost.

Quaril analogs made from a mixture of acrylic and quartz sand. They are stronger and more durable than acrylic modifications. Marble are distinguished by high strength characteristics and aesthetic appeal. As for the models made of glass, wood and copper, they are rare today. Buy these bowls for furnishing bathrooms in private and country houses. The price for them is high, they are usually stylized in antique style.

The characteristics of freestanding bathtubs are different, depending on the model of the bowl, they can be oval, rectangular, round, curly and even polygonal. In addition, they can be symmetrical and asymmetrical, regular and angular. The variety of choices allows you to choose an option, taking into account the placement in the bathroom of different sizes.

The shape can be not only the usual streamlined, but also similar to cup, baby bath, trapeze, flowerpot. On sale you can find models with a high headboard, boat options, asymmetric fonts with forging elements, egg-shaped varieties. Creative solutions are the shape of a lady's shoe or a cruise ship.

Sizes are variable: in the assortment of stores you can find models with parameters 150x70, 160x60, 130x70, 170x75, 180x80 cm. The size of the bath depends on its shape. For example, in oval and rectangular varieties, the dimensions can be 118, 154, 170 cm in length with a width of 44 and 74 cm.The internal depth is usually 44-53 cm.

The height of the variants with a pedestal reaches 70 cm. In low counterparts without a podium, on average, it is 57 cm.In tall ones, it exceeds 70-71 cm.

The height of asymmetrical footed models may vary. At the highest point, it can reach 70-72 cm, at the bottom it does not exceed 64 cm.At the same time, in the widest place the dimensions of the bowl can reach 80 cm, in the narrowest - 20 centimeters less.

Depending on the size of the bowl itself, the distance between the legs also varies. The average width between the "lion's paws" is 55-56 cm. The difference between the total and outer width of the bowl can be up to 40 cm. The difference in length can be up to half a meter.

A freestanding bathtub with a total length of 175 cm and the shape of a ship can be 80-81 cm in height from the head side, and about 65 cm on the opposite side. At the same time, the height of the support legs may also differ, usually this difference does not exceed 5 cm. Height parameters support legs depend on the design idea, usually they are 12-13 cm or more.

As for the parameters of the width of the sides for individual varieties, they depend on the model, they can be small or wide. On average, they are 7.5-9 cm or more. Models without sides are usually spacious and deep, their width reaches 90 cm with a height of 63-65 cm.The length is 170-180 cm and more.

Classic models of freestanding bathtubs are made in white. It goes well with other tones of the color palette, it is appropriate in interiors of different styles. However, if you want variety, you can order a bathtub of the most unexpected design. For example, it can be a black model with white streaks, a white bathtub with stripes of different shades.

It looks quite extraordinary in the interior of a creative style black or gray bathtub with gold or bronze legs. In addition, the bowl can be blue, greenish, scarlet, wine and combined. The product can be made in the contrast of black and red, black and white tones.

Usually the colored paint is on the outside, the inside of the bowl is white. However, too bright tones and contrasts can simplify the interior composition, which is why it is necessary to choose your version carefully. For example, in the interior of kitsch, a bath in pink and yellow tones is quite appropriate, but in a loft you need a gray or white with a rough finish.

Looks great in bathrooms a font with a white interior and a sandy gray exterior. Together with supports in bronze, they bring a certain status to the design. Subdued and noble tones can be seen in the lines of Italian manufacturers. It is warm beige, brick, copper, gold, mirror gray.

Freestanding baths are manufactured by different companies. At the same time, products of various brands can be not only monochromatic. Some of them are distinguished by laser engraving of drawings, while others are decorated by hand painting. Models with all-metal stands made of forged elements also attract attention.

Among the huge assortment, products from several manufacturers can be distinguished. For example, the company has beautiful baths made of artificial stone. "Esthete"... These are both white and colored varieties of a rectangular or oval shape on supporting legs, as well as on a podium. The line includes varieties of asymmetric type with comfortable head restraints.

Original bowls can be purchased from a domestic manufacturer. "Astra-Form"... Some models are equipped with individual screens, the brand offers bowls in white and any other color, which are in the standard range. The products are sold through the dealer network.

Brand name Esse is engaged in the production of products from cast marble. These bathtubs are suitable for the embodiment of high-tech, modern, vintage and any of the classic trends in interior design. Colors can be different, which is achieved by dyeing in bulk, tinting, glitter.

Models can convey the texture of different materials (e.g. malachite, serpentine, jasper, marble, granite). The shape of the bowls can be rectangular, trapezoidal.Options with more functionality are more expensive.

Beautiful cast iron bathtubs with a glossy surface release and Devon & devon... Models with and without tap holes can be painted in different colors. In addition, the customer can choose a different version of the support legs.

English manufacturer Victoria + Albert distinguished by the release of large-sized sanitary ware. These are products of a high price category from materials of our own design, free-standing options on a pedestal or lion legs. The brand offers options in the form of a split shell for sophisticated interiors, models in the form of ladies' shoes, bowls in the form of cruise ships. Besides, in the lines there are also classic options that are suitable for installation in penthouses and country houses.

Russian trade mark "Color and Style" attracts the attention of buyers with designer stands in the form of scaffolds for freestanding bathtubs. In addition, an exclusive package is provided here: it can include a mirror, pencil case, cabinet and other components of a stylish interior. Models are made from quality raw materials using modern technologies.

Dutch company Riho manufactures baths from acrylic and artificial stone, taking into account its own developments, materials and technologies. The production technology involves the inclusion of acrylic in the composition of the stone. The line includes models with rounded-triangular bowls, elliptical options, rectangular, asymmetrical products.

Buying a freestanding bathtub will require a variety of factors to consider. For example, first you need to decide on the size, for which they measure the place for the future font... At the same time, they leave space for free movement around the room. Immediately think over the conduct of water supply and drainage pipes.

Owners of private houses can install hot tubs in different locations. The owners of city apartments have a harder time: they often do not have such a choice. Therefore, it will not work to put a bath in living rooms, because it is prohibited by the regulations. You can't put a bowl in either the living room or the bedroom: at the bottom there should be a non-residential premises. The only exception may be the approval of the installation of a bathtub in an apartment on the ground floor.

The choice of a room in a country mansion should take into account several points. For example, a bathtub in a large room will cool quickly. It is undesirable to put a bath in the bedroom, because even with constant ventilation, the room will be damp. And this will speed up the time for another repair.

After choosing a place, they decide which material is preferable. For example, cast iron is durable, but to install such a bath, you will have to strengthen the floor. Acrylic is light, but such a bathtub can move during operation, and it looks simpler.

A quartz bathtub is more stable than an acrylic one; such a bowl can be installed both on the podium and on the legs. The model made of artificial stone is not affordable for everyone, but it is not only durable and practical, but also stylish. After weighing all the pros and cons of each material, they are determined with priorities, after which you can go to the store to buy.

The choice can be influenced budget possibilities... Don't forget about the money for transportation, lifting and installation. Already in the store, you need to decide how exactly the installation will be carried out (on legs, podium, stationary or not).

When buying, you need to ask the seller about a set of options for the product you like. It is not worth paying for bathtubs with unnecessary functionality. You can save a lot on this. In addition, you need to evaluate the shape: if it is more convenient to take a bath not sitting, but lying down, choose an oval or rectangular model of sufficient length.

The dimensions of the bowl should fit into the doorway, this also needs to be thought about in advance. Other buyers do “fitting” in stores to understand how convenient the product is in use. They sit down and even lie down in the bathtub, pay attention to the headrests, the height of the sides, the volume. This allows you to evaluate not only the aesthetic, but also the practical characteristics of the product.

Having decided on the functionality, convenience, price and material of manufacture, look at the color of the model. Usually, the universal options are painted white, which is convenient for fitting the bowl into the interior of any style. However, if the purchase of a colored product is conceived by design, the shade is fundamental.

If you need a color design model, you can order it individually. The accessories are selected taking into account the stylistic direction of the interior. This will enhance the premium aesthetic experience of the product.

For example, an excellent solution would be to buy a floor mixer. But in order for it to look beautiful with the supports, it will have to be selected in a single design and color with them. Antique taps, which are attached to the edge of the bathtub, also look very impressive.

Nothing tells about the possibilities of aesthetic perception of freestanding bathtubs like illustrative examples.

Modern design model in a round shape for a private mansion.

Stylish claw-foot bathtub made of metal against a background of a brick wall.

A variant of the laconic design in gray to match the wall cladding.

A dark red model without a podium with a floor-standing mixer in the interior of a light bathroom.

A free-standing, dark-colored bathtub is a key element in a spacious bathroom.

A rare wood model for an atmosphere of harmony with nature.

Small bowl in black for bathroom furnishings in neutral colors.

A beautiful and stylish bathtub model for furnishing a premium interior.

A functional version of the product with a modern design.

A striking medium-sized bowl in a spacious bathroom interior design.

The following video provides an overview of a freestanding bathtub from a popular manufacturer.