Freestanding vs. built-in bathtubs. What’s the best choice for your NYC home?

Freestanding tubs are all about visual impact. They act as sculptural pieces that transform the bathroom into a luxurious retreat. These tubs provide a bold statement and can make any bathroom feel like a spa.

Why choose a freestanding tub?

Elegant aesthetics. Freestanding tubs are designed to be showstoppers, acting as the focal point of your bathroom. Their open, sculptural form allows them to be placed in visually striking locations — whether it’s positioned under a grand chandelier or in front of panoramic city views.

This creates an elegant aesthetic that enhances the overall atmosphere of the space. Perfect for spacious bathrooms or open-concept layouts, these tubs bring a sense of luxury and timeless beauty to any design.

Unmatched flexibility. Unlike built-in tubs that must be fitted into a specific space, freestanding tubs can be placed wherever plumbing allows. This opens up more opportunities for creative layout options, especially in bathrooms that benefit from a free-flowing, airy design.

Timeless design. Crafted from premium materials such as solid stone, cast iron, and matte acrylic, these tubs effortlessly complement various design aesthetics — be it modern, classic, or eclectic. Their timeless style ensures that they remain visually captivating for years to come.

Space requirements. Make sure your bathroom has enough space to accommodate a freestanding tub. Larger models, in particular, require a generous footprint to avoid overwhelming the room, so smaller bathrooms might feel cramped.

Structural reinforcement. Heavy materials like stone require floor reinforcement. It’s important to check that your bathroom floor can support the weight of the tub, especially if you’re opting for a larger model.

Plumbing adjustments. Freestanding tubs typically require a floor-mounted or wall-mounted faucet. This could involve plumbing adjustments, which can add to the renovation cost. It’s essential to plan for this extra work in your budget.

Our advice. When selecting a freestanding tub, take into account your bathroom’s layout and flow. In tight spaces, the visual impact of a freestanding tub can be just as stunning as in larger rooms — so long as you balance scale with your other design elements. 

For NYC homes, where space is limited, consider how a freestanding tub will integrate with the rest of your design, and whether additional plumbing or floor support is needed.

Top picks:

Boffi Iceland bathtub. A minimalist design that creates a stunning visual impact without overwhelming the space.

Victoria + Albert Amiata. Crafted from volcanic limestone, offering superior heat retention and an effortlessly elegant look.

Waterworks Empire tub. A deep-soaking classic that fits perfectly in traditional or transitional spaces.

Built-in tubs offer a more traditional approach, designed for spaces where efficiency and practicality are key. These tubs integrate seamlessly into the bathroom’s layout, making them ideal for smaller spaces where every inch counts.

Why choose a built-in tub?

Maximized space. Built-in tubs are perfect for optimizing space in compact bathrooms. They can be designed to fit snugly into corners or along walls, allowing for better use of your bathroom’s layout, which is particularly valuable in NYC apartments and brownstones.

Streamlined aesthetic. A built-in tub creates a sleek, minimalist look. When paired with custom tile inlays, cabinetry, or shelving, it blends seamlessly into the bathroom’s architecture, giving the space a clean, cohesive feel.

Functional features. Many built-in tubs come with additional features like whirlpool jets, heating elements, or ergonomic contours. These elements add an extra layer of comfort, making it easy to create a spa-like experience at home.

Design integration. Built-in tubs are often designed to fit within specific architectural constraints. It’s crucial to consider how the tub will integrate with the rest of the bathroom’s design. This includes the materials (marble, tiles, etc.) and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.

Customization needs. While built-in tubs are practical, they don’t carry the same dramatic flair as freestanding tubs. To elevate the look, consider adding features like recessed shelving, under-cabinet lighting, or unique tile patterns that enhance the aesthetic appeal of the built-in design.

Our advice. When choosing a built-in tub, focus on creating a seamless and integrated design. Think about your bathroom’s overall theme — whether it’s modern, industrial, or traditional — and how your tub can complement that. Also, consider any future functional needs, such as jets or heated surfaces, to ensure your tub will meet your long-term comfort.

Top picks:

Kohler Underscore Drop-In tub. A deep, soaking tub with customizable hydrotherapy features for the ultimate relaxation experience.

MTI Andrea 17. A luxurious, understated soaking tub that blends perfectly into a spa-inspired design.

Choosing between a freestanding or built-in bathtub depends on the space and atmosphere you want to create. If your bathroom has the room to spare and you want a dramatic statement piece, a freestanding tub will undoubtedly elevate your space. On the other hand, if you’re working with a smaller bathroom or prefer a minimalist, space-efficient design, a built-in tub might be your best bet.

For those renovating in New York, space is often at a premium, and architectural design plays a key role. Consider how each type of tub will function in your home’s layout and how it can enhance both the aesthetics and practicality of the space. Whether you go for a freestanding tub as a statement piece or a built-in tub for its sleek, space-saving design, both options will bring a touch of luxury and style to your bathroom.

United Elite Group is here to guide you through every step of your renovation, ensuring that your tub selection aligns with your vision for a luxurious, functional bathroom.

Explore our portfolio, fill out an application and get advice from our designers! Ready to transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat? Let’s make it happen!