10 Small Bathroom Ideas with Freestanding Tubs: Creative ways to make a small bathroom look stunning with a freestanding tubLena MoraJan 20, 2026Table of Contents1. Corner Placement for More Walk Space2. Narrow Tub for Tight Layouts3. Elevated Platform for Drama4. Glass Divider Instead of Walls5. Place by the Window6. Back-to-Wall Freestanding Tub7. Monochrome Magic8. Add Vertical Storage9. Floor-Mounted Faucet as a Feature10. Reflective Surfaces EverywhereFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOne of my most chaotic renovation moments was when a client insisted on squeezing a clawfoot tub into a bathroom barely bigger than a walk-in closet. At first, I thought it was impossible — but it turned out to be one of the most charming spaces I’ve ever designed. That’s the thing about small spaces: they push you to be more creative. Today, I’m sharing 10 small bathroom ideas where a freestanding tub doesn’t just fit — it shines.1. Corner Placement for More Walk SpacePlacing the freestanding tub in a corner can instantly open up the middle of the room. In a tiny ensuite I designed, this trick allowed enough room for a floating vanity and still felt airy. Pair with a light color scheme to make the walls "disappear".save pin2. Narrow Tub for Tight LayoutsIf your bathroom feels more like a hallway, look for slim-profile freestanding tubs. They’re surprisingly comfortable and let you add essentials like a towel ladder nearby. In my projects, I often plan this on a room layout mock-up before purchase to check flow.save pin3. Elevated Platform for DramaAdding a small platform under the tub creates a spa-like presence, and it can hide plumbing adjustments. Just remember: it needs to be slip-proof to avoid post-bath acrobatics.save pin4. Glass Divider Instead of WallsReplace opaque shower partitions with clear glass. Your eye sees more of the floor, making the space feel bigger. The tub becomes the star instead of being boxed in.save pin5. Place by the WindowA freestanding tub under a window not only looks romantic but also maximizes wall storage elsewhere. I once placed one under a skylight — talk about dreamy stargazing baths.save pin6. Back-to-Wall Freestanding TubThis hybrid style gives you the clean look of a freestanding tub but sits flush against the wall, saving precious inches. Perfect when working with a tight floor arrangement before renovation starts.save pin7. Monochrome MagicKeeping walls, floor, and tub in the same tone makes lines blur, creating an illusion of more space. It’s my go-to trick when clients want minimalism without feeling clinical.save pin8. Add Vertical StorageFreestanding tubs open up walls, so take advantage with tall shelving or recessed niches. Just keep items curated — no one wants to relax while staring at a shampoo warehouse.save pin9. Floor-Mounted Faucet as a FeatureIn small bathrooms, details matter. A sculptural floor-mounted faucet not only saves wall space, it adds a design moment worth showing off. I once matched it with a brushed brass mirror — instant boutique hotel vibes.save pin10. Reflective Surfaces EverywhereMirrors opposite the tub bounce light and visually double the space. In one narrow bath, pairing this with a precise bathroom plan made the entire renovation smoother.save pinFAQQ: Can I put a freestanding tub in a small bathroom without sacrificing storage?A: Yes — focus on vertical storage, niches, and multipurpose furniture to keep essentials handy without crowding the floor.Q: Are freestanding tubs practical for everyday use?A: Absolutely, but choose the right size and height for comfort. Narrower designs and back-to-wall tubs are great in small spaces.Q: Do freestanding tubs require special plumbing?A: They might. Always plan plumbing routes early in the design process to avoid surprises.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE