Which cast iron bath to choose?
With such a wide selection available, choosing the right one is often far from simple. From Victorian slippers to contemporary bateau, the choice can be overwhelming.
So where do you start? We asked The Cast Iron Bath Company founder Lee Hunwicks for his top tips.
(1) Consider the size of your cast iron bath
You should choose the largest bath for the space available. Many people worry that a large bath will look as if it has been crammed in, but this is not the case. Your eye will follow the sloping ends down to the extra floor space at the foot of the bath, giving the impression of space. If you have a small bathroom, it’s definitely worth looking at something like the new Petite Millbrook.
(2) Use shape to enhance the look and experience of your bath
Single ended, double ended, slippered or bateau? A single ended bath works for an asymmetrical look, and will help you balance the room by working in line with a toilet or basin. Conversely, double ended baths brings symmetry to a room – and are ideal for shared bathing. For a more reclined bathing experience, slipper baths are absolutely perfect. Bateau baths are attention-seekers. They work best set off with a little space to the back and to the sides so as to make a statement.
(3) A painted or polished bath?
This is all to do with the overall look you wish to achieve. Many cast iron baths can be painted on the outside to support and enhance the theme for the bathroom. All of our cast iron baths can be painted in the colour of your choice. Just speak to one of our team or view our Gallery page for inspiration.
(4) Considering taps for a cast iron bath
Taps can be fixed directly on to the bath, allowing it to be pushed up against the wall. On many tap options a riser can be provided allowing for the fitting of a shower. The advantage of opting for no tap holes is that the roll top runs uninterrupted around the bath, creating a clean crisp look. Taps may either be fixed on standpipes or wall mounted.
(5) How much should I spend on my cast iron bath?
This is a difficult topic as budget is such a personal decision, and circumstances vary a lot from customer to customer. That’s why our range of cast iron baths is designed to meet a range of budgets. It is interesting that the cost of a cast iron bath is, more often than not, a small proportion of the overall spend on a bathroom refit. Saying that, if you choose your bath well, it can be the feature that makes the room really special. Just take a look at the entries into our Gallery page for some examples of this.