For years, a small bathroom meant sacrificing the dream of a luxurious soaking tub. But what if you could have the best of both worlds? Enter the corner tub—a clever design solution that proves you don’t need a massive space to enjoy a relaxing bath. By fitting snugly into a corner, these tubs maximize every precious inch, making them one of the best choices for compact spaces.
A well-chosen corner tub can transform your bathroom from cramped to comfortable. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to incorporate this space-saving feature, here are five brilliant ideas for using corner tubs in small bathrooms.
The Space-Saving Genius of a Corner Tub
Why are corner tubs in small bathrooms such a smart choice?
- Maximizes Awkward Corners: They turn a typically underutilized corner into the room’s main feature.
- Frees Up Floor Space: Their unique shape, often triangular or pentagonal, can open up the center of the bathroom, improving traffic flow and making the room feel larger.
- Often Deeper for Soaking: Many corner models are designed to be deeper than standard alcove tubs, offering a more luxurious, spa-like soaking experience.
5 Brilliant Design Ideas for Corner Tubs in Small Bathrooms
Explore these five distinct approaches to integrating a corner tub into your design.
1. The Classic Alcove Corner Tub with a Tile Surround
This is the most common and seamless way to install a corner tub. The tub is a built-in model that fits perfectly into the corner, and it’s surrounded by a tiled deck and walls. This allows you to integrate the tub perfectly with your bathroom’s overall design. Using the same tile on the tub surround as the rest of the bathroom creates a cohesive, custom look. This is a foundational design for corner tubs in small bathrooms.
2. The Modern Freestanding Corner Tub
For a high-end, contemporary look, consider a freestanding corner tub. These are beautifully designed, sculptural tubs with one angled or squared-off corner that allows them to nestle right into the corner of the room while still having the elegant, detached look of a freestanding model. This option instantly becomes the room’s luxurious focal point.
3. The Practical Corner Tub and Shower Combination
You don’t have to choose between a tub and a shower. Many corner tubs for small bathrooms can be easily converted into a practical all-in-one station. This can be achieved by installing a custom, curved glass enclosure that follows the line of the tub, or more simply with a curved shower curtain rod. This is the ultimate functional solution for a primary or family bathroom.
4. The Luxurious Soaking Tub or Jacuzzi Model
Just because your bathroom is small doesn’t mean you have to skip the spa-like features. Many corner tubs are designed specifically for soaking, with a deeper basin and a more comfortable, reclined shape. You can also find compact corner jacuzzi models equipped with air or water jets for a true hydrotherapy experience at home. This proves that corner tubs in small bathrooms can still feel incredibly luxurious.
5. Maximizing the Surround with Built-in Shelving
Turn your corner tub’s surround into a smart storage opportunity. When building the tiled deck around your built-in corner tub, incorporate one or two recessed niches into the wall above the tub. These tiled “cubbies” are the perfect waterproof spot for storing shampoo, soap, and bath essentials. A wider-than-standard deck can also serve as a ledge for candles, a book, or a glass of wine.
Conclusion: The Luxury of a Bath in Any Space
A small bathroom no longer means you have to give up on the dream of a relaxing bathtub. Corner tubs for small bathrooms are a smart, stylish, and space-efficient solution that can turn a cramped space into a comfortable and luxurious retreat. By choosing the right model and design, you can maximize your layout and create the spa-like sanctuary you’ve always wanted.
