We all know how difficult it can be to live in cramped quarters, especially when it comes to bathroom spaces. Bathroom and kitchen designers, however, seem to have heeded the call for more space efficient fixtures and appliances. Since small bathtubs were a priority on many people’s list, these are also one of the key items that manufacturers have sought to provide. Soaking tubs, in particular, are quickly gaining popularity as a space saving way to add luxury to your bathroom, regardless of its size. With their Asian influenced designs, small soaking tubs are a hot trend for compact spaces.
What Are Soaking Tubs?
Taking its design from its roots in Japanese culture and tradition, a soaking tub is a small bathtub that is made to be significantly deeper than a standard bathtub. With a typically square or round overall shape, a soaking tub possesses higher walls, allowing the added volume capacity. The Japanese used this design to allow the bather to sit more comfortably for extended periods of time, primarily due to the fact that the bathing process was considered a ritual in many Eastern cultures. It also provided increased submersion capabilities, further adding to its relaxation benefits.
When Are Small Soaking Tubs Used?
Small soaking tubs are ideal for a number of various scenarios. For homes with small bathroom spaces, a soaking tub offers an increased water capacity in a smaller floor space. The added height possessed by the tub also gives the illusion of a larger room. For larger bathrooms, a small soaking tub makes the ideal secondary bath. In Japanese culture, the soaking tub was actually used only after one had already cleaned themselves in another tub. The soaking tub was designed for relaxation, not cleaning purposes. While most consumers will use it for there purposes, however, a small soaking tub still makes a nice addition to a standard primary bathtub. With the added features that can be installed, such as water and air jets, the soaking tub can serve as a secondary unit with a more spa-like benefit offered.
What Are My Options For Small Soaking Tub Designs?
As stated before, soaking tubs are typically square or round. For small spaces, some manufacturers offer corner soaking tubs to better work with the open floor space. Most soaking tubs are above ground tubs. Because of the high walls, they are typically fitted with one or two steps to allow easier entry into the tub. If the construction of the home allows for it, however, some soaking tubs can be mounted partially or completely into the floor. This sunken design can add a significant touch of elegance, reminiscent of bathtubs found in ancient times designed to be walked down into. Floor mounted and fully sunken soaking tubs are perfect for making a striking and bold visual statement, offering a very unique design that is highly contrasting to a standard bathtub. The partially sunken design offers a more traditional visual appeal, while also providing the benefit of the extra depth of a soaking tub.
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