Whether you own a built-in tub or a freestanding tub, the bathtub has the ability to put us in a relaxed state of mind. Filled with some extra warm water, bubbles and Epsom Salt, this home object can provide a momentary remedy for a stress-filled day and grant us some much needed alone time.

I’m not talking about the tub/shower combo kind of bathtub either. Although they are practical and space savers, the combo unit typically does not have the wow factor that an independent bathtub does. And let’s face it; when it comes to interior design, practical is not always synonymous with pretty. We design aficionados want pretty!

Well if pretty is what you want, pretty is what you’ll get. Both the built–in tub and the freestanding tub can be beautiful. Nevertheless, both of these tubs have advantages and disadvantages to them.

The Built-In Bathtub

Under-mount built-in bathtub

The Advantages

I have a built-in tub nestled between our two vanities in my master bathroom. It is a drop-in tub, which means that the rim of the tub fits over the built-in surround. The other option you can go for is an under-mount tub. This is similar to the idea of an under-mount or drop-in sink.

Having a tub surround allows you to keep items you may need within reach, such as candles, soap dispensers, razors and wine on those rough days. Built-in tubs are also easier to clean than freestanding ones and the fact that you can sit on the edge may make it safer for you to get in and out of the tub.

When it comes down to price, the built-in tub is usually more cost effective and that’s even in cases where you have to get a carpenter or general contractor to build the surround. Also, all of the unsightly plumbing is hidden and there is no need to purchase those notoriously expensive stand-up faucets.

Drop-In Built-In Bathtub

The Disadvantages

Built in tubs are often not as aesthetically pleasing as freestanding tubs, but they do come close. Moreover, most built in tubs have to be placed on a wall or in a corner, which means you cannot put them anywhere you desire in the bathroom. In addition the stone on the surround can get expensive if you go with a natural stone option.

The Freestanding Bathtub

Freestanding Bathtub

The Advantages

When we hear freestanding tub, we may automatically think of the claw foot tub. However, in today’s market there are so many options available for lovers of the freestanding tub. From modern to traditional, there is something for everyone.

Freestanding tubs can make a statement all on their own and they do not require hiring additional subcontractors to create a surround. Another advantage is that they can literally be installed anywhere in the bathroom, as long as the plumber does his or her job correctly.

Freestanding tubs are usually made of durable materials such as cast iron, stone resin or fiberglass. The cast iron option can be refinished to its original luster in the future.

Freestanding Bathtub

The Disadvantages

There are several disadvantages to the freestanding tub, but that should not deter you from purchasing one if that is your heart’s desire. First, the freestanding tub tends to weigh much more than the built-in option. When it is full of water, it makes the tub tremendously heavy (especially if it is made of cast iron). This can be dangerous in scenarios where the tub is located on the second or third floor of a home or in a building. The floor below must be reinforced by a contractor in order for it to withstand the heavier load. If this sounds expensive, it is.

Unless the freestanding tub is in the middle of the bathroom, it is also more difficult to clean. If the tub is located near the wall, it may be next to impossible to clean between the wall and the tub. Also, these types of tubs require freestanding tub fillers, which are very expensive. The plumbing may end up being somewhat visible if the space doesn’t allow for relocation of the pipes.

In terms of price, well ouch is all I can say. I recently went on the hunt for a freestanding tub and they are quite expensive. But then again, whoever said being beautiful was cheap?

The post Bathtub Wars: Built-In vs. Freestanding appeared first on Superior Interiors by Karina Jones.

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Aside from my master bathroom suite, the powder room is my favorite bathroom in the house. Having come from a very small home with only one bathroom, I can truly appreciate having a two-piece bathroom that is separate and solely dedicated to guests.

The best thing about a powder room is that it is small. Since a typical powder room is only about 25 to 50 square feet, you can get really creative in this space. In addition, because this is often the smallest room in a home, you can afford to go with more luxurious materials, decorative lighting, deeper colors, and shinier textures in here. Whether you want to completely tile all of your walls, just do an accent wall or add sconces to flank your mirror, this is the room where you will get the most bang for your buck.

The next best thing about a powder room is that it does not have a shower or tub which means moisture will not be an issue in this room. That opens up your options in terms of decorating because there are no opportunities to overflow the tub in here. If you love the idea of wallpaper but have been afraid to move forward, this is absolutely the room to do it in. In fact, you can even do wood flooring in this space instead of tiled floors.

Moreover, the powder room is the one room that almost everyone who visits your home will utilize. So why not make this room as unique and as spectacular as you can make it? Today I have compiled some powder rooms that I totally adore. One of these is bound to appeal to your particular design style.

The Contemporary Powder Room

Source: Pinterest

Wouldn’t you love to enter into a powder room that looks like this? This may be a tiny space but every detail in this space is gorgeous. The textured wallpaper, the dark crown molding and baseboards, the glamorous wall sconce, the wide wood plank flooring and the sleek espresso vanity are rich looking and a welcome surprise when guests open that door.

The Transitional Powder Room

Design By: www.andreaschumacherinteriors.com

The gold leafing used throughout this space takes this powder room to another level. The addition of mirrors open up the space and that console makes this room look more like an entryway than a bathroom.

The Rustic Powder Room

Source: www.minimalisti.com/

If rustic is your thing, this powder room is wrapped in rustic charm. It is warm, inviting and shows the personality of the homeowner.

The Modern Powder Room

Source: http://www.minimalisti.com/

The modern touches in this bathroom are stunning. The vessel sink, the grasscloth, the trendy toilet and the clean lines make this powder room a beautiful sight.

The Eclectic Powder Room

Design by: Patrick Mele Design

Last but not least, this eclectic powder room design by Patrick Mele Design featured at the 2013 Hamptons, New York Showhouse is as unique as it gets. The luxurious marble and chrome vanity, the glass blown chandelier, the black wallpaper and that parrot means your guests will never ever forget your powder room.

Written by Karina Jones

– Superior Interiors by Karina Jones

The post Powder Rooms: Why This Is the Room to Design to Your Heart’s Content appeared first on Superior Interiors by Karina Jones.