Are Bathtubs Going Out Of Style In 2026? The New Trends Taking Over Bathroom Design

No, bathtubs are not completely out of style in 2026. Traditional built-in bathtubs are increasingly being replaced by walk-in showers in bathrooms for accessibility and more space. At the same time, freestanding bathtubs remain popular in larger luxury bathrooms where homeowners want a spa-like focal point. Bathroom remodeling projects today often raise the same question: “Are bathtubs going out of style in 2026?” Bathtubs are not completely out of style; standard residential bathrooms now replace them with walk-in showers to save space, and most luxury bathroom remodels include adding freestanding bathtubs for a spa-like look.

Are Bathtubs Going Out Of Style In 2026?

No, bathtubs are not going out of style in 2026. Even our recent bathroom remodels in Chicago and Highland Park replaced old bathtubs with modern, functional ones.

We consider that whether to replace a bathtub should not be a trend-based decision, but it should be based on a more personal experience. Our portfolio of projects in North Shore showcases how spaces can look personalized and unique by adding your own aesthetic sense into it. Bathtubs have been a part of bathrooms for thousands of years, but Kohler played an important role in bringing the modern bathtub into American homes.

History of bathtubs

Bathtubs were reinvented in 1883 when John Michael Kohler added four feet to a cast-iron horse trough and created the clawfoot bathtub style. Crane Company introduced colorful bathtubs and fixtures between the 1920s - 1930s. Jacuzzi introduced the first integrated whirlpool bath in 1968, and whirlpool tubs became a mainstream residential feature through the 1970s and 1980s. Tiled bathtubs remained popular from the 1990s through the 2010s and can still be found in many homes today. Today, freestanding bathtubs and walk-in showers are increasingly popular alternatives to traditional built-in and tiled bathtubs.

Freestanding Bathtub vs. Walk-In Shower vs. Tiled Bathtub in 2026

When Does Bathtub Replacement Become Essential?

If you are planning to remodel your bathroom and are thinking of replacing the bathtub, you must first know the purpose behind it.

Do You Want a Spacious Bathroom?

A standard alcove tub occupies about 12.5–15 sq ft. A freestanding tub needs the same footprint plus 4–6 inches of clearance on all sides, so plan for roughly 20–30 sq ft of floor area. If you want more usable space for a vanity, storage, or improved accessibility, replacing a bathtub with a walk-in shower may be a good option.

Do You Want a Complete Bathroom Makeover?

If you want to do a complete bathroom makeover and you want something different and more modern than traditional bathtubs, then you can replace them with walk-in showers to match modern style.

Are You Thinking of Creating an Accessible Bathroom?

We have worked on a few remodeling projects where we replaced the bathtubs with roll-in showers for wheelchair accessibility. Accessible bathrooms need more space, and traditional bathtubs are not a safe option. Therefore, an open space, a roll-in shower, or a simple washing area works.

Tiled Bathtub Replacement Options for 2026

The tiled bathtubs can be replaced with stand-alone bathtubs, walk-in showers, or glass door tile showers depending on the preference.

Walk-in showers

Walk-in showers are the most in-demand replacements for bathtubs because they take up less space, and they are easy to clean.

Roll-in showers

Roll-in showers are often considered a good replacement for bathtubs when remodeling accessible bathrooms. Wheelchairs can enter easily into roll-in showers and have plenty of space for the person to shift to a shower bench or chair.

Freestanding Bathtubs

There are many spa-inspired bathrooms and luxury bathroom remodels being done nowadays that include a freestanding bathtub. It looks luxurious and gives a modern touch to bathrooms.

Glass Enclosed Tile-Showers

The glass door with tile showers is another luxury replacement for bathtubs, as they look more elegant and go with trends nowadays.

Custom Vanity

Many space-saving options include making space useful by adding storage space or a custom vanity. A few remodeling projects included replacing the bathtubs with vanities that made these bathrooms spacious and provided the best storage options.

Bathtubs in North Shore Homes

Every house design has a different story, and every person wants their house to be more unique. Bathroom remodeling also varies according to the taste of homeowners. Bathtubs are not completely out of style, as many people still want them; especially, bathtubs remain an important feature in children’s bathrooms.

Many homeowners add both walk-in showers and bathtubs in their bathrooms for a spa-like interior.

Similarly, some people love making their bathrooms comfortable by installing custom jacuzzis in them.

2026 Bathtub & Shower Remodeling Costs in Chicago's North Shore

What are Growing Trends for Bathrooms in 2026?

Wet Rooms

Wet rooms are becoming a popular bathroom design choice in 2026. The entire shower area is designed as a waterproof space, which allows the shower to blend into the rest of the bathroom. Wet rooms work well in modern bathrooms and can make smaller spaces feel more open. They can include a curbless shower, large-format tile, a linear drain, and a frameless glass panel.

Japanese Soaking Tubs

Japanese soaking tubs are a practical option for homeowners who want a bathtub in a smaller bathroom. These tubs are deeper than standard tubs and are designed for upright soaking. Their compact footprint makes them useful when floor space is limited but the homeowner still wants a dedicated bathtub.

Curbless Showers

Curbless showers are no longer limited to accessible bathroom remodeling. In 2026, homeowners are also choosing them for a clean and open bathroom design. Removing the shower curb creates a continuous floor surface between the bathroom and shower area and works especially well with large-format tile and frameless glass.

Bathtub Materials

The bathtub material affects durability, weight, appearance, and heat retention. Acrylic tubs are lightweight, affordable, and available in many designs. Cast iron tubs are extremely durable and hold heat well but are much heavier. Solid-surface tubs offer a modern appearance, good heat retention, and a seamless look. The right material depends on the bathroom layout, budget, and how often the tub will be used.

Floor-Mounted vs. Wall-Mounted Tub Fillers

Tub fillers are also becoming an important part of modern bathroom design. Floor-mounted tub fillers are commonly paired with freestanding bathtubs and create a clean look around the tub. Wall-mounted tub fillers work well with tubs positioned against a wall and can save floor space. The plumbing layout should be considered before choosing the tub filler because changing the plumbing location can increase remodeling costs.

Our Thoughts

The bathtub should be chosen based on the homeowner’s needs and the bathroom’s layout rather than being another space-consuming feature installed. If you are wondering whether bathtubs are out of style, we suggest you look through new bathroom remodels and see what suits your bathroom. A standard bathtub typically measures about 60 inches long and 30–32 inches wide, giving it a footprint of approximately 12.5–13.3 sq ft. However, the total floor area needed depends on the tub style and required clearance. Freestanding tubs generally need about 20–30 sq ft when surrounding clearance is included. If you want to save floor space for a larger vanity, storage, or a more accessible shower, consult a remodeling professional before making the change.

If you want to learn more about bathtub options, installation, or a complete bathroom remodel, you can contact our team. Our crew members will help you decide the best remodeling option and will break down the budget as well.