The Old-Fashioned Bathroom Feature That Is Back On Trend For 2026

Are you planning on remodeling your bathroom next year? There's one old-fashioned feature that's expected to make a major comeback in 2026: freestanding tubs. In stark contrast to modern tubs that are combined with showers, these pieces make a statement. "Homeowners want ritual and restoration, and the bathtub is returning as a sculptural centerpiece, rather than an optional feature," Mikel Welch, interior designer, of Mikel Welch Designs said in a recent interview with Martha Stewart magazine. He also noted how luxurious-feeling freestanding tubs "help create an at-home spa experience" that can transform the vibe of any bathroom.

We're fans of this trend not only because it promotes relaxation, which is much-needed for many of us, but also because it falls in line with the overarching 2026 bathroom trend of incorporating spa-like elements. A recent Zillow Home Trend Report found that listings for homes with spa-inspired bathrooms are on the rise. Also worth noting: Freestanding tubs are chic! Gone are the days of your grandma's bland, antique clawfoot bathtub. Now, these versatile pieces come in a wide range of luxe colors, finishes, and styles. 

To select the right freestanding tub for your bathroom, consider your design preferences, as well as any financial or spatial constraints you might have. Aesthetically, fans of statement-making décor may gravitate toward sculptural deep-soaking tubs in dramatic hues or finishes. Vintage lovers, on the other hand, might prefer the classic look of a clawfoot tub. You can jazz yours up by painting it in a rich, deep hue.

Styling retro-inspired bathtubs with modern or warm-toned pieces can also offset the dated vibes. As real estate agent Angie Nelden said in a recent Apartment Therapy interview, "Designers are pairing freestanding soaking tubs with organic materials — think marble slabs, lime-washed plaster walls, or warm wood accents — to create contrast and depth." These clever design choices "let (the tub) do the talking" and make the room as a whole look artfully curated, not boring or old-fashioned. For added cool factor, pair your freestanding tub with another 2026 bathroom trend: a floating vanity.

As for the budget component? There's no way around it: Installing a freestanding tub can set you back thousands of dollars. Like all bathroom remodeling projects, the final cost depends on a number of factors, including the specific tub and faucet you choose. (It's worth noting that there are some freestanding tubs on sites like Amazon priced around the $500 mark.) Depending on the size and layout of your bathroom, this upgrade might not be doable, either. For a more affordable bathroom swap, consider installing a shower bench, an accessibility upgrade that's also trending for next year.