A freestanding bath can be a stunning addition to any bathroom, transforming it into a luxurious and relaxing retreat. With the growing popularity of freestanding bath nz homes, many homeowners are seeking guidance on how to choose the perfect one for their space. Whether you’re renovating your bathroom or building a new home, selecting the right freestanding bath is essential to create a cohesive and comfortable bathroom.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing the perfect freestanding bath for your NZ home, ensuring it not only enhances the aesthetics of your space but also meets your functional needs.
1. Determine Your Available Space
Before you start shopping for a freestanding bath, it’s important to assess your bathroom’s size and layout. Freestanding baths are available in a variety of sizes, so understanding your available space will help narrow down your options.
Measure Your Bathroom Dimensions
Measure the floor space and ceiling height to determine the maximum size that would comfortably fit. Take into account the location of windows, doors, and other fixtures. In smaller bathrooms, a compact or corner freestanding bath may be ideal, while larger spaces can accommodate more expansive options.
2. Choose the Right Material for Your Bath
The material of your freestanding bath can greatly impact its appearance, durability, and maintenance needs. The most common materials for freestanding baths in New Zealand include acrylic, stone, and cast iron.
Acrylic Baths
Acrylic baths are lightweight, durable, and available in a wide range of styles. They are resistant to cracking and are easy to maintain. If you’re looking for a bath that combines modern aesthetics with practicality, an acrylic freestanding bath is an excellent choice.
Stone Baths
For a more luxurious feel, stone baths, including options made from solid stone resin, offer a timeless and elegant appearance. These baths retain heat for longer periods, providing a more indulgent bathing experience. However, they tend to be heavier and may require additional structural support.
Cast Iron Baths
Cast iron baths are known for their traditional charm and impressive durability. They are excellent at retaining heat and can add a vintage or classic touch to your bathroom. However, cast iron baths are heavier and typically more expensive than other materials.
3. Consider the Bath’s Style and Design
The style of the freestanding bath should complement your overall bathroom design. From sleek, contemporary designs to more ornate, vintage-inspired styles, there’s a freestanding bath for every taste.
Modern and Minimalistic
If your NZ home has a contemporary or minimalist aesthetic, opt for a freestanding bath with clean lines and a simple design. A round or oval-shaped bath in a neutral colour like white or matte black will provide a sleek and modern look.
Vintage or Traditional
For a bathroom with a more classic or vintage feel, consider a freestanding bath with a clawfoot or roll-top design. These styles exude charm and elegance, perfect for creating a timeless bathroom setting.
4. Choose the Right Functionality and Features
Freestanding baths come with various features that can enhance your bathing experience. When deciding how to choose the perfect freestanding bath for your NZ home, consider the additional functionalities that are important to you.
Soaking Depth
If you love long, luxurious soaks, pay attention to the depth of the bath. A deeper freestanding bath will allow you to immerse yourself fully in water, providing a more comfortable and relaxing experience.
Integrated Faucets and Showerheads
Some freestanding baths come with integrated faucets and showerheads, which can be convenient if you’re looking to save space or reduce the number of fixtures in your bathroom.
Drain Placement
The drain placement in a freestanding bath is another important consideration. Ensure that the drain is positioned in a way that works with your bathroom’s plumbing setup. In some cases, you may need to modify the plumbing or choose a bath with a centre or side drain for easier installation.
5. Think About Maintenance and Cleaning
Freestanding baths can be relatively low maintenance, but the material and design of the bath can affect how easy it is to keep clean. Acrylic baths tend to require less upkeep than other materials, as they resist staining and are easy to wipe down.
Stone baths, while stunning, may require occasional sealing to maintain their surface, and cast iron baths may require extra care to prevent chipping or rusting. Before making a decision, research the cleaning and maintenance requirements of the materials to ensure they fit your lifestyle.
6. Budget Considerations
Finally, your budget will play a significant role in choosing the perfect freestanding bath. Prices can vary dramatically based on the material, size, and design of the bath. On average, acrylic baths are more affordable, while stone and cast iron options are typically pricier.
Set a realistic budget before beginning your search, and remember to factor in any additional costs for installation, plumbing, or maintenance. By understanding your budget, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision that suits both your style and financial considerations.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect freestanding bath for your NZ home requires careful thought and planning. By considering factors such as bathroom space, material options, design, functionality, and budget, you can select a bath that meets your needs and enhances the beauty of your bathroom. Whether you opt for a modern acrylic design or a classic stone bath, the right freestanding bath will turn your bathroom into a true sanctuary.
