When envisioning a luxurious, spa-like bathroom retreat, one of the standout features that often comes to mind is the bathtub. No longer just a utilitarian fixture in homes, bathtubs have evolved in design and functionality to become the centerpiece of relaxation and elegance in modern bathrooms. Among the various types of bathtubs available today, the undermount soaking bathtub stands out for its sleek aesthetic, exceptional comfort, and ability to transform a bathroom into a serene escape.
In this blog post, we will explore what makes the modern undermount soaking bathtub such an appealing choice for homeowners, delve into its unique features, and discuss how it can elevate both the design and functionality of your bathroom space.
What is an Undermount Soaking Bathtub?
An undermount soaking bathtub is a type of bathtub that is installed beneath a deck or surround, with the rim of the tub concealed beneath the surface of the surrounding material. Unlike drop-in bathtubs where the rim is visible and sits on top of the surround, an undermount tub is completely integrated into the design, creating a seamless and streamlined appearance.
Key Features of an Undermount Soaking Bathtub:
- Seamless Design: Because the rim of the tub is hidden, the tub appears to be flush with the surrounding surface. This creates a minimalist and clean look that complements modern bathroom designs.
- Deep Soaking Depth: Soaking bathtubs are designed with comfort in mind, offering more depth than traditional tubs. This allows for a more immersive bathing experience, where the water can rise higher on the body, promoting relaxation and stress relief.
- Flexible Materials: Undermount tubs come in a variety of materials such as acrylic, cast iron, and stone resin, each offering its own aesthetic and performance benefits. This variety allows homeowners to choose a material that fits their design preferences and budget.
- Customizable Surround: Since the undermount tub is installed beneath a surface, homeowners have the freedom to choose whatever material they want for the surround, whether it’s marble, tile, wood, or any other material that fits their bathroom’s aesthetic.
Why Choose an Undermount Soaking Bathtub?
The decision to install an undermount soaking bathtub goes beyond just its visual appeal. There are several practical and lifestyle benefits that make it an attractive choice for modern homeowners.
1. Aesthetically Pleasing and Minimalist
One of the most compelling reasons to choose an undermount soaking bathtub is its sleek, minimalist design. By hiding the edges of the tub, the entire bathroom appears more streamlined and polished. This is particularly desirable for homeowners who are drawn to modern or contemporary design styles where clean lines and simplicity reign supreme. The tub doesn’t interrupt the flow of the space, instead blending seamlessly with the surrounding materials for an understated yet elegant effect.
2. Spacious and Luxurious Bathing Experience
Soaking tubs are intentionally designed to offer a deeper bathing experience, and undermount tubs are no exception. With their generous depth, they provide users with a more immersive soak. This is particularly beneficial for those who use their bath for relaxation or therapeutic purposes. The sensation of being fully submerged in warm water can help relieve stress, soothe sore muscles, and promote a sense of well-being.
3. Customizable Surrounds for Personalization
The undermount installation method allows for a high degree of customization. Homeowners can select the material for the surrounding deck or platform, creating a unique and personal touch to the bathroom. Whether you opt for the opulence of marble, the warmth of natural wood, or the timeless elegance of ceramic tiles, the undermount bath allows you to integrate the tub seamlessly into your overall bathroom design. This is a significant advantage over freestanding or drop-in tubs, which may limit your design options.
4. Easy to Clean and Maintain
Another practical advantage of undermount soaking bathtubs is that they are relatively easy to clean. Since the rim of the tub is hidden beneath the surrounding surface, there are fewer crevices for dirt and grime to accumulate. Additionally, the seamless design eliminates the need to clean around the edges of the tub, which can be a tedious chore with more traditional bathtub designs. This makes the undermount tub a popular choice for those seeking both beauty and functionality in their bathroom fixtures.
5. Space-Saving and Efficient Layout
In bathrooms where space is at a premium, the undermount soaking tub can be a smart choice. Because the tub is recessed into the floor or a deck, it doesn’t take up as much visual space as other types of bathtubs, such as freestanding models. This can make a smaller bathroom feel larger and more open. Additionally, the installation of an undermount tub can be optimized to fit into a corner, along a wall, or even in a central location, depending on the layout of the room.
Different Materials for Undermount Soaking Bathtubs
When choosing an undermount soaking tub, the material is just as important as the design. Each material offers its own set of advantages, and the right choice will depend on your personal preferences and budget.
1. Acrylic
Acrylic is a popular choice for undermount soaking tubs due to its lightweight nature and affordability. It’s also a versatile material that can be molded into a variety of shapes and sizes. Acrylic tubs are easy to clean and maintain, and they offer good heat retention, keeping your bathwater warmer for longer.
2. Cast Iron
For those seeking durability and a more traditional feel, cast iron is a fantastic option. Cast iron tubs are incredibly sturdy and long-lasting, and they offer excellent heat retention. However, they are significantly heavier than acrylic tubs, which means that extra structural support is often required during installation. This can increase the overall cost of the project, but for many, the durability and timeless appeal of cast iron are well worth it.
3. Stone Resin
Stone resin is a premium material that combines the natural beauty of stone with the durability and ease of maintenance of modern materials. Stone resin tubs are often more expensive than acrylic or cast iron tubs, but they offer a unique, luxurious look that is hard to match. Additionally, stone resin is known for its excellent heat retention and its smooth, tactile surface.
Installation Considerations for Undermount Soaking Bathtubs
Installing an undermount soaking bathtub is a more involved process than installing a traditional drop-in or freestanding tub. It requires careful planning and professional installation to ensure that the tub is properly supported and that the surrounding materials are correctly sealed to prevent water damage.
1. Structural Support
Given the weight of some tub materials, especially when filled with water, it’s crucial to ensure that your bathroom floor can support the weight of the tub. This is particularly important for heavier materials like cast iron or stone resin. If necessary, your contractor may need to reinforce the floor to provide adequate support.
2. Waterproofing
Proper waterproofing is essential when installing an undermount tub, as the surrounding deck or surface will be exposed to water splashes. Ensuring that the area around the tub is waterproofed correctly will prevent water from seeping into the underlying structure, which could lead to mold, mildew, or structural damage over time.
3. Professional Installation
While some homeowners may be tempted to install an undermount soaking bathtub themselves, it’s highly recommended to hire a professional for this type of installation. The precise nature of the installation, along with the need for proper waterproofing and structural support, makes this a job best left to experienced professionals.
Conclusion: A Luxurious Addition to Any Modern Bathroom
An undermount soaking bathtub is more than just a functional feature; it’s a statement of elegance, luxury, and modern design. Its seamless integration into the bathroom’s architecture, combined with deep soaking comfort, makes it a favored choice for homeowners looking to create a serene and spa-like atmosphere in their bathrooms. Whether you’re remodeling an existing bathroom or building a new one, an undermount soaking bathtub offers the perfect blend of form and function, transforming your bathroom into a personal sanctuary of relaxation and style.
examples of undermount soaking tubs in different bathroom styles
ndermount soaking bathtubs are highly versatile and can be integrated into a variety of bathroom styles, from ultra-modern to more traditional designs. Below are examples of how these tubs can be incorporated into different bathroom aesthetics, offering both functionality and visual appeal.
1. Modern Minimalist Bathroom
Key Features:
- Neutral Color Palette: Dominated by whites, blacks, and grays.
- Clean Lines: Everything in the space is sleek and streamlined, with minimal ornamentation.
- Material Choice: The undermount tub is often surrounded by a smooth, uninterrupted surface like white marble, quartz, or matte concrete.
Example:
In a modern minimalist bathroom, an undermount soaking tub can be embedded into a raised platform surrounded by white marble or sleek black quartz. The seamless design of the tub blends perfectly with the minimalist aesthetic, creating a sense of openness and tranquility. The lack of visible edges helps maintain the clean, uncluttered look that is central to modern minimalist interiors. Simple fixtures, such as a wall-mounted faucet, complement the tub without drawing attention away from the overall design.
2. Spa-Like Zen Retreat
Key Features:
- Natural Materials: Wood, stone, bamboo, and other natural elements take center stage.
- Earthy Tones: The color palette features soft greens, beiges, and earthy browns.
- Calming Atmosphere: Every element of the space is designed to evoke tranquility and relaxation.
Example:
In a Zen-inspired spa bathroom, an undermount soaking tub can be integrated into a wooden deck, surrounded by smooth river stones or bamboo accents. The wood platform creates a natural, organic feel, while the deep soaking tub offers a serene bathing experience. The warm tones of the wood and natural stone pair beautifully with the tub’s design, creating a harmonious and calming retreat. Add candles or small potted plants around the tub to enhance the spa-like ambiance.
3. Industrial Chic Bathroom
Key Features:
- Exposed Elements: Raw materials like concrete, exposed brick, and metal accents.
- Monochrome Palette: Typically features shades of gray, black, and metallic tones.
- Utilitarian Aesthetic: Fixtures and fittings are often bold and functional, without being overly decorative.
Example:
In an industrial-style bathroom, an undermount soaking tub could be set into a concrete platform, surrounded by exposed brick walls and industrial-style lighting. The concrete gives the space a raw, edgy feel, while the deeply recessed tub offers a stark contrast between the rough materials and the smooth, luxurious bathing experience. Black matte fixtures, such as a floor-mounted or wall-mounted faucet, add to the utilitarian aesthetic while maintaining a stylish, contemporary edge.
4. Classic Traditional Bathroom
Key Features:
- Elegant Details: Crown molding, wainscoting, and other traditional architectural elements.
- Timeless Materials: Natural stone like marble, granite, or wood paneling.
- Soft, Neutral Colors: Creams, whites, and pastels dominate the palette.
Example:
In a classic, traditionally styled bathroom, an undermount soaking tub is often surrounded by luxurious white or Carrara marble. The marble platform gives the space a timeless, elegant feel. Traditional brass or chrome faucets and fixtures complement the tub, while soft lighting, such as wall sconces, enhances the luxurious atmosphere. This setup blends the deep, relaxing comfort of the soaking tub with the refined elegance of traditional design elements like detailed cabinetry and vintage accessories.
5. Rustic Farmhouse Bathroom
Key Features:
- Natural and Reclaimed Materials: Wood beams, shiplap walls, and rustic finishes.
- Warm and Cozy Palette: Earthy colors like browns, creams, and soft whites.
- Vintage and Handcrafted Elements: Fixtures may include antique-style faucets and handcrafted tiles.
Example:
In a rustic farmhouse bathroom, an undermount soaking tub could be set into a wooden platform made from reclaimed barn wood. The surround might incorporate stone or hand-painted tiles, adding to the vintage charm. The tub itself provides a modern, luxurious contrast to the rustic materials, while aged brass or oil-rubbed bronze fixtures complement the farmhouse aesthetic. A large window offering views of the countryside or a garden can complete the cozy, inviting atmosphere.
6. Contemporary Glam Bathroom
Key Features:
- Luxurious Finishes: High-gloss materials like glass, polished stone, and metallic accents.
- Bold Color Accents: While the base palette may be neutral, pops of gold, silver, or jewel tones are common.
- Statement Lighting: Chandeliers or ornate light fixtures add drama and sophistication.
Example:
In a contemporary glam bathroom, an undermount soaking tub could be set into a glossy, dark marble platform, surrounded by gold or brass accents. The tub’s sleek, recessed design enhances the polished, high-end look of the space. A statement chandelier hanging above the tub adds a touch of glamour, making the bathroom feel like a luxurious retreat. The combination of modern materials and opulent details creates a truly sophisticated vibe.
7. Scandinavian-Style Bathroom
Key Features:
- Light and Airy: Lots of natural light with an emphasis on simplicity and functionality.
- Neutral Palette: Whites, light grays, and natural wood tones dominate.
- Minimalist Design: Clean lines and clutter-free spaces, with a focus on natural materials.
Example:
In a Scandinavian bathroom, the undermount soaking tub might be set into a natural wood or light stone platform. The design would emphasize clean lines and simplicity, with soft white walls and minimalistic fixtures. The tub’s integration into the platform would enhance the sense of calm and order that is central to Scandinavian design. Simple, yet stylish fixtures such as sleek chrome faucets, paired with fluffy white towels and greenery, complete the look, making the space feel warm and inviting.
8. Mediterranean-Inspired Bathroom
Key Features:
- Warm, Earthy Tones: Terracotta, warm yellows, and deep blues.
- Ornate Tilework: Decorative tiles, often hand-painted or with intricate patterns, are a key feature.
- Natural Materials: Stone, terracotta, and wrought iron accents.
Example:
In a Mediterranean-style bathroom, the undermount soaking tub could be surrounded by a platform made from hand-painted ceramic tiles or natural stone. The warm, earthy tones of the tilework complement the deep, relaxing experience of the soaking tub. Wrought iron fixtures, such as a vintage-style faucet or towel holders, add a touch of rustic elegance. The overall design evokes the warmth and beauty of Mediterranean coastal villas, offering a luxurious yet grounded bathing experience.
Conclusion
Undermount soaking tubs are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit a wide range of bathroom styles. From minimalist modern spaces to rustic farmhouse retreats, these tubs offer the perfect blend of form and function. Their seamless integration into the design of the bathroom, paired with the deep, luxurious soaking experience they provide, makes them a popular choice for homeowners looking to create a personal sanctuary. Whether you prefer sleek modern lines or the warmth of natural materials, an undermount soaking tub can elevate the design and atmosphere of your bathroom.