The Smart Way to Choose Between
a Shower and a Bath
One of the widest choices that homeowners will need to make when planning a bathroom renovation is between a walk-in shower and a bathtub. Each option has its pros and cons, but it will come down to what you want and what your lifestyle, space, budget and intent are.
At Brindabella, we understand that every bathroom should reflect the people who use it. We work with design principles to make beautiful, functional environments that will improve everyday life. If you are investing to create your dream ensuite or you are updating your family bathroom, it is important to know the advantages and disadvantages of each option so you can make the best investment for your home.
The Growing Popularity of Walk-In Showers
Walk-in showers are one of the most popular bathroom additions to include in a modern bathroom renovation. Their sleek appearance, accessibility, and efficient use of space make them a favourite among homeowners looking to create a contemporary bathroom.
Benefits of a Walk-In Shower
Creates a Spacious Feel
A walk-in shower can make even a small bathroom look bigger and more open without having a large shower screen or bathtub surround. This is especially good in smaller homes and in the ensuite baths.
Easy Accessibility
Walk-in showers are more accessible for all ages and mobility. High bathtub edges are not present which helps to eliminate tripping hazards and is conducive to the ageing in place design principles.
Low Maintenance
Many people like the idea of cleaning a walk-in shower. Less corner, less grout and minimal hardware means reduced maintenance demands for the future.
Modern Aesthetic Appeal
The sleek design of frameless glass panels, large format tiles and minimalist fixtures imparts a luxurious and contemporary appeal that many buyers appreciate.
Potential Drawbacks
Walk-in showers are a great choice, but may not be for everyone’s home. Bathtubs may be easier for families to use when bathing young children. Also, many homeowners consider a bathtub a must have, especially in family-oriented suburbs.
Why Bathtubs Remain a Bathroom Favourite
Although the walk-in shower is a very popular choice in Australia, the bathtub remains popular in many homes. They offer comfort, relaxation, and versatility which no shower can offer.
Benefits of a Bathtub
Ideal for Families
If you have an infant or toddler, a bathtub may be a must have. It offers a safer and more convenient bathing option compared to a shower.
A Space to Relax
The right bathtub can help make a bathroom a private paradise. Taking a bath after a long day can give a level of comfort and relaxation which many homeowners value.
Can Add Resale Appeal
In many family homes, having at least one bathtub remains desirable for future buyers. Real estate professionals often note that homes with a family-friendly bathroom appeal to a wider market.
Design Statement
A freestanding bathtub makes for a beautiful statement and can transform the look of any bathroom and create a luxury hotel-inspired atmosphere.
Potential Drawbacks
Bathtubs take up more room than showers and consume more water. They may also be less accessible for senior citizens or those with mobility concerns.
Space Considerations: Which Option Works Best?
Bathroom size often plays a significant role in the decision-making process.
A walk-in shower typically is the best option in a small bathroom for both space and function. An open plan shower design can help to make a small room seem more spacious, whilst being very functional.
In larger bathrooms, the homeowner might be able to add both a bathtub and a separate shower. This approach delivers maximum flexibility while creating a premium bathroom experience.
At Brindabella, our design team takes a considered approach to every area to create a design solution that takes into account the aesthetic, functional and lifestyle requirements. We follow a detailed design and project management process which ensures that all aspects of the project work together to create a successful renovation.
Accessibility and Future-Proofing
There are many homeowners who are considering renovating their homes with a focus on long-term use. A walk-in shower might be the more convenient choice for some because of its low-entry design and compatibility with safety features like grab rails and slip-resistant flooring.
Future-proofing your bathroom can add long-term value and allow you to enjoy your home comfortably for many years to come.
What About Property Value?
There is no universal answer when it comes to resale value. It depends on your home’s location, the type of buyers you wish to attract and the overall property type.
Smart design solutions include:
- Family homes benefit from having at least one bathtub.
- Apartments and smaller homes often gain more functionality from a walk-in shower.
- Luxury homes frequently include both options.
The key is creating a bathroom that aligns with buyer expectations while meeting your current lifestyle needs.
The Best of Both Worlds
If space permits, a walk-in shower and a bathtub might be the highest possible luxury to provide in the bathroom. The benefit of this solution is that it is flexible, meets growing family needs and is attractive to a wider generation of potential buyers.
Many of Brindabella’s award-winning bathroom projects are a great combination of luxurious freestanding baths with spacious walk-in showers, resulting in highly functional and elegant spaces. The company’s commitment to design excellence has been recognised through numerous industry awards from organisations including HIA and KBDi.
So, Which Should You Choose?
The right choice ultimately depends on how you use your bathroom every day.
Choose a walk-in shower if you:
- Prefer a modern, minimalist aesthetic.
- Want to maximise space.
- Value accessibility and ease of maintenance.
- Rarely use a bathtub.
Choose a bathtub if you:
- Have young children.
- Enjoy relaxing baths.
- Want to maintain a family-home appeal.
- Have sufficient space available.
If your budget and bathroom layout permit, combining both features often provides the greatest flexibility and long-term value.
Transform Your Bathroom with Brindabella
At Brindabella, we believe every successful renovation begins with understanding your lifestyle, needs, and vision. Our dedicated designers, project managers and qualified trades collaborate to deliver beautiful, functional, long-lasting bathrooms. We use a highly successful renovation method and have been honored by the industry for many years, to help homeowners make spaces that make everyday life so much better and add lasting value to their homes.
Ready to transform your bathroom? Speak with the Brindabella team to discuss a tailored renovation solution designed around your home and lifestyle.
