Bathtubs are wonderful when used, but they have a significant footprint when not in use. If you’re in the process of designing a guest bathroom renovation, take time to evaluate whether or not a tub makes sense – along with alternative options.
The Pros & Cons of a Guest Bathroom Tub
Most guest bathrooms are on the smaller side, so a bathtub takes up prime real estate. As with any bathroom remodel, we start by looking at how homeowners use the space today, how they plan to use it in the coming years, and what their strongest likes/dislikes about the current model.
You can do a micro version of this inquiry around the bathtub:
- Who uses it?
- How often?
- Would removing the tub allow for a more functional layout?
- Is there another option in the house for the occasional soak?
1. Do you have young children using the guest bath?
If you have children using the guest bath, a tub might be worth it for now. If the children are itty-bitty, it may seem just fine for them to use your master bath in the toddler to five-year-old range. However, most children under the age of 10 still prefer to bathe more than shower because the shower isn’t as comfortable until they’re bigger.
Over time, older children want their privacy (and parents want theirs), so it may make sense to hold on to the tub/shower combo for a while.
2. Is the tub used less than 12 times per year?
If the bathtub is used less than 12 times per year, it’s probably not the best fit for that space. Instead, we recommend taking the tub out and designing a custom shower.
If those 12 times are much enjoyed by the bather – be it a current resident or a guest – you may find that adding a steam shower function is a better solution.
With a steam shower design, you can:
- Swap the garden tub out for a more spacious and luxurious shower.
- Choose gorgeous tile that enhances the look of the bathroom.
- Install a comfortable shower seat so former bathers can sit or lay back comfortably while enjoying the same warmth and relaxation they had in the bath.
- Use the extra square footage you gained to be creative.
3. Change The Layout OR Get Creative With the Extra Space
If you decide to eliminate the guest bathtub, you have extra space to work with. This gives you several options for the bathroom remodel.
- Consider a different layout. The space gained by removing the tub may give you exactly what you need to re-envision the bathroom’s layout. This may be especially beneficial if you have multiple people in the house who will be using that bathroom. We can create a separate toilet, sink, and/or shower space so more than one person can use the bathroom at a time without compromising on privacy.
- Add custom cabinets for extra storage. If your home lacks linen closet space, we can design beautiful custom cabinets that run floor to ceiling or partially up the wall to create exponentially more storage space for towels, bathroom products, etc.
- Design for accessibility. Do you plan to age in place in the home? Or do you have older parents or loved ones who may need a more accessible bathroom space when they come to visit? With the extra space opened by removing the bathtub, we can ensure that people can safely and comfortably use the bathroom even when using a walker or wheelchair.
Details Construction Group Designs Forward-Thinking Bathroom Remodels
Details Construction Group takes a comprehensive and detail-oriented approach to every renovation we take on. We get to know our clients and their needs so we can design and build home remodels that meet their current needs and that can evolve along with them. Ultimately, every project we complete honors our client’s needs and lifestyles while adding value to their homes. We can also use this time to design plans that create continuity and refresh the entire home.
Are you unsure whether you want to keep the tub in your guest bath? Schedule a design consultation with Details Construction Group. We’ll discuss the pros and cons, draw up alternatives so you can see how they’ll look, and ensure you’re 100% confident in the final design plan. Once you’re set on the plan, our team will implement the perfect bathrooms for your home.
