The honest trade-offs between the two, and how to fit both into one room.
It is the first question in almost every bathroom consultation.
The case for a walk-in shower
It uses less floor, less water and less time. A frameless enclosure keeps a small bathroom feeling open, and a level floor is easier for every age.
The case for a bathtub
Nothing else gives the same rest. A freestanding tub also becomes the visual centre of a large bathroom.
Space you need
A comfortable shower needs 900 by 900 mm. A freestanding tub needs its own length plus 150 mm of clear floor on each side for cleaning.
Having both
In a room of 6 square metres or more, place the tub by the window and the shower in the corner behind glass.
Our view
If it is your only bathroom, choose the shower. If it is your second, give yourself the tub.
