It’s a question for the ages, do I need a bathtub in my bathroom remodel? Will I reduce the value of my home if I don’t have one? The answer to this question depends on who you ask. Traditionally a full bathroom, especially the master bathroom includes a big bathtub or Jacuzzi feature. As we move into the future, fewer homeowners are embracing the big tub in the room. They are looking for smaller, more decorative free-standing tubs so they can install larger custom showers. Custom meaning special shower heads, steam rooms, body sprays, and other features. Some are opting out of a tub in their bathroom remodels. Let’s take a look at today’s growing “no more tub” trend. 
Busy Lifestyles, Less Bath Taking
Today’s generations of homeowners are realizing that a bathtub that is not being used that much is taking up space that could be used for other functional uses. They would rather opt into some luxurious features in the shower.
A spa bath could be replaced by multiple special shower heads with rain features and fragrance options. Shower stalls also feature convenient seating, in the place of a bathtub.
Aging Homeowners
Baby boomers are finding that getting in and out of a deep tub is difficult and at times not safe for them. To meet this need, demand for walk-in showers/tubs is growing.
If your local market includes an older demographic, then showers are preferred over bathtubs. Bathtubs support aging in place. In this case, go for a large, shower with walk-in door options if possible, to make access easier.
Consider including a built-in shower seat and handheld shower head. Some showers are wheelchair accessible, so the bathroom space needs to be large enough for a wheelchair to roll in and out of. This is a newer phenomenon making the traditional tub a thing of the past.
Need More Shower Space
A bathtub takes up a lot of space in a bathroom. Many times it just simply gets in the way!
Today’s homeowner would rather enjoy more space for a larger shower with additional features like a built-in seating area, and more shower features. Plus with the additional space, they can increase the size of the counter area, add a seating area, or even enjoy more storage space.
More Than One Tub Not Necessary
Today’s newer homes usually include more than one full bathroom. If this is the case, since there are other tubs in the home, homeowners are deciding to increase the size of the Master Bathroom by removing the bathtub and updating the shower or closet space without decreasing the value of the home. Younger families appreciate homes with bathtubs for their children.
Busier Lifestyles and Passing Trends
Yes, today’s busier lifestyles may or may not be here to stay. Just like fashion, interior design and home trends fluctuate throughout the generations. Currently, potential buyers are looking for luxurious oversized bathrooms with larger showers and trendy designs. It’s probably a good prediction that the big, bold bright colors and designs that are popular today will not be the look of the future. Some expert realtors, contractors, and interior designers recommend sticking with the tried and true neutral styling that will never go out of fashion. Boring? Yes to some but valuable to others.
Ever-Changing Technology & Smart Homes
And then there is the ever-changing technology that is transforming our homes, even our bathrooms into smart homes. It doesn’t matter what the space looks like, with just one click of a button or statement to our artificial intelligent best friend, Alexa, the shower is turned on, the lights are dimmed and music is playing for us. Who knows what the next big thing in tech will be.
The key to enjoying your bathroom, whether to have a bathtub or no bathtub, is as personal as your preference to shower or take a bath. Create a home that makes you and your family happy. If you are flipping a house or planning to sell your home, consult your realtor or contractor for their advice. The larger shower with all the special features will probably remain the hot selling feature for now and into the near future. But having a bathtub is not a bad idea. Families with young children enjoy taking relaxing baths before turning into bed, so not having a bathtub in the home could send them shopping elsewhere.
When re-designing any bathroom in your home, and considering putting your house on the market, think about your lifestyle preference and not the trends. You should enjoy your home, not design it for someone else. But, even if you do not take a bath or need a bathtub, it makes logical sense to have one bathtub in the home.
Contact Us Today
Do you have more questions about your bathroom remodel? At Columbus Bath Design, we’re always happy to assist you. Give us a call today!
