"We're no strangers to controversial design features making a major comeback: From soapstone kitchen countertops to seashell decor, things that were once "out" always seem to make their way back "in" in the design world. (Design déjà vu is kind of the industry's thing.) As part of the sixth annual State of Home Design survey last month, Apartment Therapy asked 140 interior designers which once-controversial trends they thought were poised to make a resurgence in 2026. Some answers were more surprising than others, of course, but one stood out more than all the rest: When it comes to bathrooms, interior designers say the built-in bathtub is back - and in a big way."
"Why Are Built-In Bathroom Features Coming Back into Fashion? Love it or hate it, the experts have spoken; but why the built-in tub? For many years, the built-in bath and shower combo was the standard when it came to bathroom design. And for good reason: Combining the two simply saves space and streamlines the layout. Sara Swabb, Founder & Creative Director of Storie Collective, agrees. "Freestanding tubs have had their moment, but built-ins are [more] practical, comfortable, and can be beautifully designed with stone or tile surrounds that feel architectural and tailored," she says. "They offer a sense of permanence and luxury that's both functional and timeless, especially in smaller bathrooms where every inch counts.""
"Additionally, Sallie J. Lord, founder of GreyHunt Interiors, points out that bathtub surrounds are safer than freestanding bathtubs, since they have that built-in support when entering and leaving the tub - "and when done right," she says, "[they] have a luxe vibe.""
Built-in bathtubs are experiencing a resurgence due to their practical benefits and aesthetic adaptability. Combining a bath and shower saves space and streamlines bathroom layouts. Built-in surrounds can be finished with stone or tile to create architectural, tailored looks that convey permanence and luxury. The built-in edge provides support entering and exiting the tub, improving safety compared with freestanding tubs. Properly designed built-in tubs maximize comfort and function while maintaining a high-end, timeless appearance in smaller or space-conscious bathrooms.
Read at Apartment Therapy
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