Stone or acrylic? Solid surface or cast iron? These questions float through our showroom daily as people consider the many options available when selecting a bath. Yes, it can be overwhelming (much like everything else that comes with the task of renovating or building), but it really doesn’t have to be.

With the extensive range of materials and finishes available to choose from, the perfect bath is out there for you. It’s just a matter of finding the right one best suited to your needs and bath-soaking desires. But before you begin to imagine the relaxation you will enjoy in your future tub, it’s important to understand the benefits of each material.

Calmo Freestanding Bath in Pietra Grey Marble

Natural stone

Natural stone baths are luxurious and will bring sophisticated beauty to any bathroom they feature in. Carved from stones such as Carrara, Travertine, Pietra Grey and even Terrazzo, these baths are inspired by natures beauty and are the perfect investment for bath lovers. Stone will naturally retain heat longer than a standard acrylic bath, ensuring you stay warmer for longer as you enjoy the peace and serenity. While these baths will be the striking feature to any bathroom, they do come with a hefty price tag and weigh a tonne (well not that extreme, but they are heavy).

Acrylic

Arguably the most versatile material on the market, acrylic baths are highly accessible and come in a range of different shapes and sizes. Acrylic baths are budget-friendly, lightweight and ideal for upper storeys and apartments. Select from freestanding, back-to-wall, claw foot and multi-fit variations to create the perfect bathroom space. While all acrylic baths are made to Australian sanitary grade standards, baths made from Lucite are a higher grade of acrylic and come with greater warranty. This patented cross-linked acrylic is incredibly flexible, strong, scratch resistant and protects against UV rays ensuring the white bath retains its colour for longer.

Concrete

What makes concrete special as a product is its extreme durability, meaning it can withstand multiple uses. Most concrete products on the market are constructed with fibreglass reinforcement, making it lighter and 10 times as strong. What’s more, these products are also more eco-friendly than some solid surface alternatives which can consist of synthetic resin binders. A concrete bath is certainly perfect for those seeking a raw aesthetic for their space. With companies like Concrete Nation creating baths in several colours, they are taking the old notion of concrete as a cold and harsh product, and turning it into a beautiful material bursting with design possibilities.

Fienza Shinto Bath Build: Doherty Building Group Image: Tim Turner — Fienza Shinto Bath **Build:** Doherty Building Group **Image:** Tim Turner

Solid surface

Solid surface or composite stone baths are a popular choice for those seeking a refined minimal look for their bathroom. These beautiful baths are made from a combination of resin, granite and quartz composites that mimic the natural stone feel without weighing your pockets down. Much like natural stone baths, a solid surface bath will keep the water warmer for longer. Another feature of composite baths is their resistance to scratching, as any marks can easily be buffed out and the bath brought back to its original state. With more and more manufacturers creating solid surface baths and basins, you have the freedom to design a harmonious space with matching finishes.

Cast iron

Cast iron baths are the Godfather of baths. Regal and elegant, you can’t go past the timeless aesthetic these baths will bring to your bathroom. Moulded in history, claw foot iron tubs are meticulously hand crafted and can be enamelled in an array of different colours to suit your style. Not only do these baths provide an impacting feature to your bathroom, they will hold their heat just like a good cast iron pot. Choose these carefully, and ensure you have appropriate structural support for a cast iron bath as they are heavier than most freestanding variations.

Bath lovers may choose to invest in a natural or composite stone bath to soak and relax in for hours. While those seeking the freestanding bath look without the price tag can achieve a timeless look with the simplicity of an acrylic bath. The possibilities are endless and you are bound to find the perfect bath for your needs as you explore our vibrant showroom.

Words: Alana Perin