- Designers share what they believe to be the most overrated bathroom feature.
- While some homeowners might think this feature is a must-have, designers say it’s not always worthwhile.
- Read on to learn more about the feature and why it’s overrated.
There’s always that gorgeous scene in the movie where the main character comes home after a busy, stressful day and immediately steps into their large, luxurious soaking tub for a relaxing bath (Nancy Meyers, I’m talking to you!). Every time I see it, I’m convinced I would become a bath person if only I had a tub.
The reality? That’s probably not true. And designers wholeheartedly agree. When asked about the most overrated design features, many pros had the same answer: “Soaking tubs in the primary suite are beautiful and photograph well, but more often than not, they collect dust, especially for busy families,” says Galey Grimes of Galey Grimes Interiors.
Soaking tubs are more visually appealing than they are practical, unless you’re someone who truly loves a long, luxurious soak. “They’re striking in a bath but I have very few clients who use them on a regular basis,” says Hillary Cohen of HCO Interiors.
When prioritized over other features — that are arguably more essential to the functionality of the space — a soaking tub can mess with the overall bathroom design. Standing showers might end up cramped or under-designed, according to Elana Tenenbaum Cline, founder and creative director of Carta Creatives.
“Clients are often much happier with a beautiful, oversized shower that feels spa-like but gets real use,” say Michelle Murphy of DEMI RYAN.
While there’s no arguing that soaking tubs look beautiful, they simply aren’t a worthwhile investment for most busy families. Still, that doesn’t mean they can’t ever be advantageous. If you’re a true bath enthusiast — someone who actually indulges in baths rather than just dreaming about them — a spacious soaking tub can be more than just aesthetically pleasing.
Laura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.
