By Robin 
The Ultimate Guide to Garden Tubs: Luxurious Bathing Redefined
When it comes to transforming your bathroom into a personal sanctuary, few features can rival the elegance and relaxation offered by a garden tub. Designed to be both functional and luxurious, garden tubs have become a centerpiece in modern bathroom design. Whether you’re planning a renovation or building a new space, a garden tub could be the perfect addition to elevate your bathing experience.
In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about garden tubs. From their rich history to the benefits of their ergonomic design, materials, and costs, you’ll discover why this luxurious bathtub has grown in popularity. Along the way, we will also discuss innovative options like InspireStone™, showcase models like the Maia Bathtub and Oceanus Bathtub, and share insights from Badeloft USA.
What is a Garden Tub?
A garden tub is a large, oval-shaped soaking tub, designed to allow bathers to fully submerge their bodies for maximum comfort and relaxation. Unlike standard bathtubs, garden tubs are often freestanding and provide ample space, creating a spa-like experience in the comfort of your home. The design of a garden tub, particularly its oval shape, ensures an ergonomic bathtub that conforms to the body, making it one of the most comfortable soaking tubs available.
Garden tubs are built to deliver more than just a bath. With deep soaking tub features, they create a therapeutic bath environment that promotes relaxation and stress relief. These tubs are designed with aesthetics in mind, often positioned near windows to allow natural light in bathrooms for a peaceful, nature-inspired ambiance. From luxurious, stone resin tubs to affordable acrylic bathtubs, there are a variety of materials and styles to suit every taste and budget.
History of the Garden Tub
The concept of a garden tub dates back to the 18th century when the French aristocracy introduced these tubs into their gardens. The name “garden tub” originates from its placement in outdoor spaces, where bathers could enjoy scenic views while soaking in lavish, zinc bathtubs. This luxurious experience quickly spread across Europe, with the English incorporating garden tubs into indoor bathrooms, often near windows or beautiful landscapes.
Garden tubs soon became a symbol of wealth and sophistication, offering not only a way to bathe but also a chance to unwind in a serene setting. This trend has evolved over time, and now garden tubs are a staple in high-end bathrooms, bringing a touch of history and opulence to modern home design.
Garden Tub vs. Standard Bathtub Comparison
At first glance, you might wonder how a garden tub differs from a standard bathtub. The primary distinction lies in its size and design. A garden tub is significantly wider, deeper, and typically freestanding, allowing for a full-body soak. This makes it perfect for those seeking a spa-like experience at home.
While a standard tub is functional, it often lacks the depth needed for a truly immersive soak. On the other hand, a garden tub offers superior heat retention, especially when made from high-quality materials like enameled cast iron or stone resin tubs. The deeper design also ensures that your entire body stays submerged, providing a more therapeutic bath than a standard tub can offer. However, keep in mind that garden tubs require more space and are often more expensive than standard tubs.
How Long Do Garden Tubs Last?
The lifespan of a garden tub largely depends on the material used in its construction. High-end materials like InspireStone™, a proprietary stone composite from Badeloft USA, can last up to 70 years, offering unparalleled durability. This material is also mold and mildew resistant, making it ideal for homeowners seeking a hygienic, low-maintenance bathtub.
Other materials, such as enameled cast iron and stone resin, are also known for their longevity and heat retention properties. These tubs require minimal upkeep, and any minor damages like scratches or cracks can often be repaired on-site, ensuring your garden tub continues to look and perform like new for decades.
Garden Tub Materials
Choosing the right material for your garden tub is key to maximizing comfort, durability, and heat retention. Some of the most popular materials include:
- InspireStone™: This proprietary material offers a luxurious stone finish that mimics natural stone while being lightweight, highly durable, and heat-retentive. It’s the ultimate choice for a long-lasting, high-quality bathtub.
- Stone Resin: Known for its balance between flexibility and durability, stone resin tubs offer excellent heat retention and can be molded into a variety of designs, including the ergonomic oval bathtub shape.
- Enameled Cast Iron: This material is renowned for its durability and heat retention but is heavier than other options. It also offers a classic, timeless look but may be more challenging to install due to its weight.
- Acrylic Bathtub: Acrylic bathtubs are more affordable and flexible in terms of design, but they don’t retain heat as well as stone resin or cast iron options. However, they are lighter and easier to install.
Garden Tub Pros and Cons
Like any major home addition, garden tubs come with their own set of advantages and drawbacks.
Pros:
- Luxurious Design: A garden tub serves as the focal point of any bathroom, adding a sense of luxury and tranquility.
- Deep Soaking: These tubs are designed to fully immerse your body, providing a truly relaxing and therapeutic bath.
- High-Quality Materials: Tubs made from stone resin or InspireStone™ offer excellent durability, heat retention, and a hygienic, easy-to-clean surface.
Cons:
- Expensive: High-quality materials and installation costs make garden tubs a premium option.
- Space Requirements: Due to their large size, garden tubs may not be suitable for smaller bathrooms.
- Large Water Demand: A garden tub’s size requires a significant amount of water, which may necessitate additional plumbing and heating adjustments.
How Much Does a Garden Tub Cost?
The cost of a garden tub varies based on material, size, and additional features. A basic garden tub starts around $2,000, but high-end models like the Maia Bathtub or Oceanus Bathtub can exceed $5,000. Installation costs should also be factored in, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 depending on the complexity of the installation and the size of the tub.
For homeowners on a tighter budget, acrylic bathtubs are a more affordable option, starting around $500. However, these tubs don’t retain heat as well as stone resin or enameled cast iron, and their durability is not as high.
Are Garden Tubs Comfortable?
Absolutely. Garden tubs are designed with comfort in mind, featuring ergonomic backrests and a spacious design that allows for full-body submersion. The oval bathtub shape, in particular, provides a natural fit for the body, ensuring that you can relax in a deep soaking tub without discomfort.
For instance, the Oceanus Bathtub by Badeloft USA, often installed in luxurious locations like Villa Cristina, offers a spacious, spa-like experience. The design incorporates thoughtful elements like a center drain for ultimate comfort, making it perfect for both solo and shared baths.
Garden Style Bathroom Ideas
When integrating a garden tub into your bathroom, think beyond function and consider how it can enhance the overall design of your space. Many garden tubs are installed near large windows to create a serene, nature-inspired environment with plenty of natural light.
For a stunning example, take a look at the Maia Bathtub, which is often placed on a platform surrounded by earthy elements like stone and marble. This combination creates a spa-like ambiance that turns your bathroom into a relaxing retreat. Whether you’re aiming for a modern, minimalist look or a more traditional design, the garden tub can adapt to suit your vision.
How Big is a Garden Tub?
Garden tubs come in various sizes, but a standard model is usually about 42 inches wide, 60 inches long, and 24 inches deep. Larger models can reach up to 70 inches in both width and length, providing even more space for luxurious, deep soaking. The size of the tub you choose will depend on the amount of space available in your bathroom.
Before purchasing, make sure to measure your space carefully, as garden tubs require more room than standard bathtubs. Additionally, consider the weight of the tub when full, especially if you’re opting for a heavy material like cast iron or stone resin.
Additional Considerations of Adding a Garden Tub
Before adding a garden tub to your bathroom, there are a few additional factors to keep in mind:
- Plumbing and Water Heating: A garden tub requires more water than a standard bathtub, so you may need to upgrade your plumbing and water heater to handle the increased demand.
- Installation and Floor Support: Due to the size and weight of garden tubs, especially when made from cast iron or stone resin, you may need to reinforce the floor and hire professionals for the installation.
- Space: If you have a smaller bathroom, a garden tub may not be the best option, as it requires a significant amount of space.
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