Types of Bathtubs: Which One Suits Your Bathroom Best?

Choosing a bathtub is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when designing or renovating a bathroom. It’s where you’ll wind down at the end of a long day, bathe the kids, or soak in silence with the door locked and the phone off. It needs to look good, feel good, and work with the rest of your space. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to baths, and that’s a good thing. Whether you’re working with a narrow ensuite, designing a family bathroom, or chasing a spa-like feel, here’s a breakdown of the most common types of bathtub and how to pick the right one for your setup.

Freestanding Bathtubs (The Centrepiece)

Freestanding tubs are the showstoppers. They don’t need to be built into a wall or hob, which means they can sit anywhere there’s space: in the middle of the room, under a window, or even tucked into a corner with enough breathing room.

They’re ideal if you want your bath to feel like a luxury moment rather than just another fixture. You can go soft and rounded, architectural and angular, or something fluted and textured to add detail. Pair it with bath tapware in matte black or brushed gold and you’ve got a striking focal point that doesn’t need much else.

The Decina Prezzo 1700mm is the perfect en suite centrepiece

Back-to-Wall Bathtubs (The All-Rounder)

A back-to-wall bath gives you that freestanding look with a little more structure. It sits flush against one wall but remains exposed on the other side, which means it’s easier to clean around and doesn’t leave that awkward dust trap behind it.

This style is great for smaller bathrooms or shared spaces where practicality matters. It still feels modern and open, but gives you the benefit of a fixed position and slightly less visual bulk. You’ll find them across both acrylic and solid surface designs, often with a more sculptural silhouette.

The Decina 1500mm Natalia Back Back-to-Wall Bath is a show-stopper (and can be used as a free standing bath tub as well!)

Corner Bathtubs (Built for Tricky Spaces)

Corner bathtubs are made for bathrooms where space is tight or walls are competing. Whether it’s a left-hand or right-hand configuration, they tuck neatly into awkward layouts and make the most of an otherwise underused zone.

These work well in family bathrooms, second bathrooms or powder rooms with a little extra room to move. They’re also a smart solution when you want a bath and shower in the same space, since they often sit next to the shower screen or include a tiled ledge.

Dealing with a tricky space? Corner bathtubs are for you, like this beautiful Decina 1500mm Bianco bathtub. 

Inset and Drop-in Bathtubs (Functional & Timeless)

Inset bathtubs or drop-in tubs are the traditional go-to. They’re installed into a built hob or frame and usually tiled in, which gives a clean, built-in look. These are practical, easy to maintain, and can be more affordable than some other styles.

Because the edges are supported, they also tend to be a little more robust, which can be helpful in family homes or bathrooms with regular use. If you like the idea of adding bench space around the bath (for candles, plants or towels) this style gives you plenty of flexibility.

Choosing the Right Type of Bathtub 

Once you’ve picked your bath style, the next decision is size. It’s worth thinking about how you’ll use it. Do you want to fully recline and soak? Is it more for the kids? Do you need to factor in step-over height or access?

Standard lengths sit around 1500 to 1700mm, but there are more compact options if space is tight and generous styles for larger rooms. Take a look at the product specs and always measure the room, not just the floor space but also the clearance around the bath and where your tapware will sit.

What About Bathtub Mixers?

Whether you’re going freestanding, back-to-wall or inset, choosing the right bath mixer will tie the whole look together. There are options with built-in hand showers, spouts in a range of finishes (and styles like swivel spouts), and matching sets if you want consistency across your tapware.

If you’ve already chosen your bathroom basin or bathroom vanity, look at colours and materials that carry across. This helps create a bathroom that feels balanced and designed rather than pieced together. Popular colours include brushed nickel bath spouts, chrome bath spouts and black bath taps. 

Shop Premium Bathtubs at Buildmat

Picking a bathtub isn’t just about size and style – it’s about how you want the space to feel. Whether you’re after something luxurious, practical or family-friendly, there’s a design that will work with the way you live.

You can explore the full bathtub collection, or refine your search by style, from freestanding bathtubs to corner bathtubs to white bathtubs. Match it with bath tapware and bathroom accessories to finish the space the way you imagined.