Small Space Bathtub: 5 Clever Ideas: Smart, stylish bathtub solutions for tiny bathrooms — real tips from a pro

I still laugh about the client who asked me to fit a tub into a closet—literally—because they loved long soaks but hated wasted floor space. That little design “insult” turned into a favorite challenge: how to make a small space bathtub feel generous without demolishing walls. I’ll show you ideas that saved that project, and could help your bathroom too. For practical layout testing I often sketch small bathroom layouts small bathroom layouts right on the first visit.

Slim soaking tubs: deep, not long

When floor length is tight, go deep instead of long. A 1200–1400 mm deep soaking tub lets you stretch out vertically; it gives the same indulgence as a full-length tub without stealing corridor space. They’re often lighter and cheaper to install, but you’ll want to check water heating capacity—deep tubs can use more hot water than a shallow shower.

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Corner bathtub nooks

Corners are wasted potential. I once turned an awkward 80cm corner into a cozy tub nook with a curved surround and shelving above — it felt like a boutique hotel. The tradeoff is shape: corner tubs are usually more triangular, so if you like to lie fully flat they may feel snug, but they maximize usable floor area for other fixtures.

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Japanese-style ofuro: compact ritual baths

An ofuro is a compact, deep tub for sitting rather than lying down; it’s perfect if soaking matters more than stretching. I recommend this when you want a serene bath experience in the footprint of a shower. If you want to quickly visualize in 3D how an ofuro fits, it helps to model the vertical space — you’ll see how headroom and shelf placement change the vibe.

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Foldaway screen with shower-bath combo

Combine a shallow tub with a high handheld shower and a folding glass or fabric screen. This gives both soak and splash functions in one compact bay. It’s cost-effective and flexible, though the seal and drainage need careful detailing to avoid leaks—simple maintenance checks go a long way.

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Built-in platforms with storage under the tub

Raising a small tub on a shallow platform creates pull-out drawers or hidden niches beneath, perfect for linens and bath products. I used this in a project with a micro-bathroom: the platform made the tub feel like a feature, and the storage solved clutter instantly. The downside is slightly higher construction cost and the need to plan plumbing access panels.

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FAQ

1. What is the smallest bathtub size that’s still comfortable?

For sitting-style tubs, you can go as small as 1000–1200 mm in length if the tub is deep. For a lying soak, aim for 1400–1500 mm. Comfort depends on your height and the tub’s depth.

2. Are compact tubs more expensive to install?

Not necessarily. Compact tubs can reduce demolition and flooring costs, but custom platforms or reinforced supports can add to the bill. Always get a site quote from a plumber or contractor.

3. How do I prevent water splashing from a tub in a tiny bathroom?

Use a high wall-mounted handheld shower and a folding screen or curved glass panel. Good drainage slope and sealed joints are essential to avoid water migrating to other zones.

4. Can I heat water quickly enough for a deep soaking tub?

Tankless (on-demand) heaters usually handle deep tubs well, but you should check BTU ratings and flow rates with a professional to match your tub volume and household usage.

5. Is a raised tub platform worth it in a small space?

Yes, if you need storage or want the tub to read as a focal point. It adds construction complexity and slightly higher cost, but the storage payoff often outweighs that in micro-apartments.

6. Are there safety concerns with deep compact tubs?

Steeper sides mean higher step-over height, so add grab bars and anti-slip finishes. For seniors or children, consider lower thresholds or built-in seats.

7. Where can I find design guidelines for small bathrooms?

Industry standards and advice are available from organizations like the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) — see NKBA guidance for clear dimension recommendations (https://www.nkba.org).

8. How do I measure awkward spaces for a custom tub?

Measure ceiling height, corner angles, and the clearances for doors and plumbing. If you need to measure tricky corners digitally, bring accurate site dimensions to any modeller so your custom piece fits without surprises.