Whether you want something big and spacious or understated and sleek, the options are numerous. We'll break down the process of shopping for luxury bathtubs and what you should be looking for. Then we'll recommend a few models we believe are worth serious consideration. Every luxury consumer is different and you'll be looking for something unique to your situation. But we think our guide will help lead you in the right direction. 

Opulent living has been a part of human existence since time immemorial. While posh couches and heavy dining room tables might seem to fit the bill, don't forget the bathroom. High end materials, expert construction and beautiful designs are behind some of the most stunning tubs. 

Maybe you're looking for a whirlpool. There are some excellent options that allow you to soak the way you prefer. Then there are pedestal tubs and other elegant options that can elevate your home to the next level of luxury. With more companies than ever vying for your money, there's lots to love and lots more to explore. So let's take a look at how this niche market has grown and evolved over the years. Then we'll give you several of the top models on the market today.

So how are these products different than traditional tubs? After all, we're basically talking about a big basin for water. But a lot hinges on the materials used and design of these otherwise utilitarian tubs.

Some folks prefer marble or otherwise precious rocks and metals. Perhaps you're looking for something sleek and modern. Or maybe you want a tub that makes a statement about you and your style. These all classify as luxury bathtubs in their own right. And you can pick exactly the right one to fit your space and your tastes precisely.

The invention of indoor plumbing certainly revolutionized the bathroom experience. And with it,there were many new options regarding how a tub could be both beautiful and functional. But you can find plenty of examples of luxury bathtubs being commissioned long before running water.

In the distant past, royals and other high ranking citizens might have an indoor tub. As long as 6,000 years ago, people had mastered rudimentary forms of plumbing. But it took thousands of more years for something resembling a modern tub. The island of Crete was the home of one of the oldest known examples. It was made of pottery and was about five feet long. It might not have been on par with the luxury bathtubs we think of today. But it served a purpose and created the mold for more opulent versions in the generations since.

Aristocrats have long had access to the materials and craftsmanship needed to make luxury bathtubs. About 2,000 years ago, Romans led the way in sanitation. Though most folks bathed in public houses, the wealthy had access to luxury bathtubs. And some were incredibly ornate for their time, suing precious materials like marble and lead. 

But in the modern era, more of the population has indoor tubs. So it takes even more to separate the luxury bathtubs from what the rest of the population has. The first bathtub as we think of it was invented in 1883. American inventor John Michael Kohler created the revolutionary prototype from a horse trough. He added short legs, making it the forefather of the claw foot type tubs we know today.  

By the mid 20th century, claw foot tubs were being replaced with built in units. These were simpler to install and easier to keep clean as plumbing made them more popular. But luxury bathtubs allow you to have it all. Whatever design you prefer is available in the style of your choosing. 

But you also get the benefits of your standard tub. It's easy to clean, easy to maintain and simple to install. Plus, you get features far beyond a simple faucet and plug. You can integrate whirlpool capabilities and many other opulent features. So in the end, you have a beautiful addition to your bathroom that can revolutionize bath time.

Now that you know what the right tub can add to your home, it's time to make your decision. Here are a few great choices that represent what is available. You don't have to spend a fortune to have a great product. But luxury bathtubs do often come with a premium price. Keep reading for a review of three products we feel are worthy of the title.

As its name implies, this collection from Wet Style is for the couture set. If you must have the latest and most luxurious, this tub might just appeal to you. Of course, the company makes a wide variety of luxury bathtubs for those who appreciate all styles. But this is one of our favorites and one of the brand's most popular designs. 

You'll find lines reminiscent of seashells flowing up to an arch with a flowing silhouette. It's infinitely comfortable and you'll know you're in a high end tub from the moment you step in. It's sturdy in construction but whimsical and delicate in execution. The design eschews the symmetry often found in both typical and luxury bathtubs. It was good enough to secure a win from the Chicago Athenaeum in 2012. The Museum of Architecture and Design gave it a Good Design Award that year. 

As light as it might look propped on its elegant feet, this tub is installed to stay. With a sturdy construction and resilient finish, you can use it for years to come. And if you're looking for exclusivity, this one has that covered too. You'll be one of only 2,000 customers to have this limited design installed in your home.

This Italian design screams luxury and opulence from first sight. It's crafted from emperador marble and ebony wood to create a dark and distinguished look. Nella Vertina has also included a number of settings and high tech features to enhance the experience. Bathe in style, beauty and comfort with this large, advanced piece.

In addition to this design, you can customize the product to match your design needs. Find a range of 30 lacquered colors to create just the look you're going for in your bathroom. These luxury bathtubs are also available in eight veneer colors as well as a range of leathers. You can also order the Four Seasons tub with a steel finish.

However you design it, you can coordinate the look with a wide array of accessories. Just look for the Four Seasons name and ensure it will complement your existing tub.

If you truly want to indulge, we recommend this product. For starters, it is huge. And that's a great feature when you start the whirlpool jets. There are air and water massage features that will rejuvenate and relax you like few others. With 20 air jets hidden on the tub's bottom, there's plenty of power to produce bubbles. 

Flip on the massage functions to find the one that's right for your current needs. And then there is the light therapy feature, complete with LED bulbs built in to the design. Then there's the upkeep factor. If you've been opting against a whirlpool because of maintenance, maybe you should reconsider. It comes with ozone disinfection, waste overflow system and automatic purge capabilities. 

It's also safe and simple to operate. Find air jets that automatically close for ease of use. And everything is packed in a system that is built to last and stury when installed. From low pressure bubbles to a firmer massage, your perfect soak could be somewhere on the spectrum. 

If so, share this article with the luxury decorators in your life. And leave us a comment below if you have any final thoughts or questions.

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