Is Bath Time Really Over?

With more homeowners choosing sleek walk-in showers over traditional bathtubs, you might wonder whether the humble bath is becoming a thing of the past.

Bathroom design has changed dramatically over the years, from colourful retro suites to today’s clean, minimalist spaces - yet the bathtub has long remained a familiar feature in most homes. Recently, though, many households have started prioritising space, convenience and practicality, leading to a noticeable shift towards shower-only bathrooms.

So, is this simply a trend, or are baths really disappearing for good?

Why More People Are Choosing Showers

For many homeowners, it comes down to how the bathroom is used day to day.

Showers tend to be:

• Quicker and more convenient

• More water efficient

• Easier to clean and maintain

• Better suited to smaller rooms

• More accessible for everyday use

In compact bathrooms, fitting both a bath and a shower often isn’t realistic. Removing the tub can free up valuable floor space, helping the room feel larger and less cluttered. This is especially popular in ensuites, apartments and modern renovations where simplicity is key.

Walk-in and low-profile showers have also become a design feature in their own right. Frameless glass panels, large-format tiles and minimalist fittings create a streamlined, contemporary look that many homeowners love.

When planned well, a spacious shower can make a small bathroom feel surprisingly luxurious.

Designing a Better Shower Space

If you’re considering replacing a bath with a shower, layout is everything.

A few smart design choices can make all the difference:

• Aim for at least 800–900mm width for comfort

• Choose frameless glass to keep the room feeling open

• Consider offset quadrants or corner enclosures in tight spaces

• Use larger tiles and lighter tones to enhance the sense of space

With thoughtful planning, a shower can become the focal point of your bathroom rather than just a practical addition.

What About Baths?

Despite the rise in shower-only designs, baths are far from obsolete.

In fact, there are plenty of reasons they remain a popular choice.

Family life

For homes with young children, a bath is often far more practical and safer than a shower.

Relaxation

Nothing quite replaces a long soak after a busy day. For many people a bath is about unwinding, something a quick shower can’t replicate.

Property value

Estate agents often suggest that keeping at least one bath in a home can appeal to a wider range of buyers, particularly families.

Statement design

Freestanding and feature baths have become beautiful centrepieces, adding spa-like luxury and character to modern bathrooms.

Rather than disappearing, baths have evolved. Today’s designs feel more sculptural, elegant and space-conscious than the bulky tubs of the past.

The Best of Both Worlds

For many homes, the ideal solution isn’t choosing one or the other — it’s finding the right balance.

Some options allow you to keep flexibility without compromising on space. like:

• Shower-bath combinations

• Compact tubs with overhead showers

• Walk-in baths for accessibility

Ultimately, the best bathroom layout depends on your lifestyle, household and how you want the room to feel.

Planning Your Perfect Bathroom

Whether you prefer a relaxing soak, a quick morning shower, or both, good design ensures your bathroom works beautifully for you.

At Gardiner Haskins Interiors, our Bristol bathroom showroom specialises in bespoke bathroom design, helping customers create spaces that are stylish, practical and tailored to everyday life. With expert planning and 3D visualisation, you can see exactly how your new bathroom will look before work begins.

Because trends come and go but a well-designed bathroom should last for years to come.