The bathroom is one of the most important rooms in any apartment or home. This is where the day begins, and where it ends, and it’s often used in between times as well. There are many good reasons to spend plenty of time thinking about the optimal bathroom furnishing and getting away from conventional thinking, even for remodels.
For example, the conventional idea that bathtubs always need to be on a facade or even in a corner. Free-standing bathtubs, which can be placed freely in the room and allow access from all sides, are particularly suitable for larger bathrooms. We have put together a small compendium of things you need to consider in the selection and planing.
If you want to be able to walk around your bathtub, or use it from any flank, make sure there is enough space around it. Plan on about 55 to 60 centimeters space from walls or other bathroom furnishings, and from all sides. For a standard-size bathtub, 180 cm x 90 cm, you will need an open floor surface area of at least 290 x 200 cm; that amount is more for larger tubs.
Many bathtubs are made of enameled steel which is very robust and easy to care for. However, when it comes to designing the tub, the material and manufacturing process leave little flexibility, which is why Villeroy & Boch does not carry them in its product line. In addition, the surface first feels cold and only takes on the bathwater temperature slowly - at the same time, the water cools more quickly.
Bathtubs made of sanitary acrylic - a sturdy plastic that has a lower weight than steel and is comparably resistant - are better for free-standing tub installation. With its bathtubs made of Quaryl®, Villeroy & Boch has achieved a true innovation and, at the same time, a unique alternative. The material is 60 percent pure, finely ground quartz crystals and high-quality sanitary acrylic. Quaryl® offers a particularly fine feel and appearance that is warm and smooth while being particularly durable and shock, impact and scratch resistant.
Another advantage of bathtubs made of acrylic or Quaryl®: The original material is liquid and can be casted in almost any shape.
Bathtubs with high aesthetic value, clean shapes, attractive deigns and lasting value are the result.
The question of suitable faucets is hardly viable for bathtubs installed on a facade or in a corner because the existing connections can be used. For free-standing tubs, however, you need to make a decision: Do you want a free-standing faucet assembly or one that is mounted on the tub edge?
A free-standing faucet is installed beside the facade on the floor and extends over the rim of the tub like a statue. It usually has is a single-lever mixer and is available in many different designs - from sleek and functional to opulent types reminiscent of “1001 Nights”. Be sure that the floor installation is sturdy so that you can enjoy your free-standing faucet for a long time. The best thing is to have an expert install it.
If a free-standing faucet doesn’t fit with your living and furnishing style, you can still have a free-standing tub: A tub rim faucet can be integrated into the rim of the bathtub. The only limit is a sufficiently wide tub rim. You can also have the faucet installed into a walled tub pedestal.
If a bathtub is to be installed as a free-standing model, the water hoses and hole must be executed from the floor. Pipes for water and drain need to be integrated into the floor and then covered with flooring after installation. This work should be done by an experienced expert, particularly if you want to also have radiant floor heating installed.
Free-standing bathtubs are available with decorative feet or with a straight bottom that stands completely on the floor. A free-standing bathtub with feet looks more delicate and less massive than a model without feet. It will make your bathroom look especially airy and modern.
Are you looking for a free-standing bathtub that is small enough for your bathroom? You can quickly find one at Villeroy & Boch: Just enter the length and width you would like and all models that meet this criteria will be shown. You can be sure that the right tub for your bathroom will be among our large selection of high-quality bathtubs.
