Got a Small Bathroom? A 1300mm Bath Might Be Your Hero
Ever stood in your bathroom with a tape measure, feeling a bit defeated? It’s a classic renovation story. You’re mapping things out, maybe with a bit of masking tape on the floor, and the dream of a beautiful, relaxing bathtub starts to fade. The numbers just aren't adding up. The space is tight, and it feels like your only option is a tiny, sad-looking tub that feels like a compromise, or no tub at all. Well, hang on. Before you give up and just go for another boring shower cubicle, we need to talk about the 1300mm bath. It's the secret weapon for small bathrooms that we, here at The Blue Space, have seen work wonders. Seriously. It’s not just a shorter tub; it’s a smarter tub. It’s 1.3 metres of pure potential, designed by people who get that not everyone has a massive bathroom to play with. They're shaped with steeper walls and clever internal curves to be surprisingly deep and comfy, so you get the proper soak you want without sacrificing your whole floor plan.
But Where Would You Actually Put One?
Fair question. It’s not just for weirdly shaped rooms. These tubs are total problem-solvers in some very common Aussie homes, and maybe you'll see your own situation in one of these.
That Cramped Family Bathroom
You know the one. It has to handle everything from the kids' bath time chaos, complete with tidal waves and a flotilla of rubber ducks, to your five minutes of peace at the end of the day. A 1300mm tub is brilliant here. It’s more than big enough for the little ones, and it saves you precious centimetres, making the whole room feel less like a shoebox. That extra bit of floor can be the difference between chaotic and calm. It means the door can open fully without hitting anything, and you're not tripping over the vanity just to get to the loo.
The Ensuite Dream
You want your ensuite to be a retreat, but right now it’s more of a closet with a toilet. Sound familiar? Popping in a small bath can completely change the game. Suddenly, you have a private spot to unwind with a book and a glass of wine. It’s that little slice of luxury that makes your own space feel special. It turns a purely functional room into an emotional escape pod from the rest of the house.
City Living & Apartments
If you're in a unit, space is everything. Every square centimetre is accounted for. A compact tub is a savvy upgrade. It adds a feature that people really want—ask any real estate agent—which is great for resale value and even better for your own daily life. It proves you can have proper comforts and a touch of class, even in a smaller home.
The Guest Bathroom or Granny Flat
Putting a bath in a secondary bathroom adds huge appeal for visiting family or potential tenants. A compact tub provides the option of a bath without dominating a space that might also need to function as a powder room. It’s a thoughtful touch that makes the space far more versatile.
Don't Think You're Skimping on Style
Okay, so it’s practical. But does it look good? Absolutely. The idea that a smaller bath is a boring, purely functional box is long gone. You can find one to fit whatever vibe you're going for in our main bathtub collection. The design choices are huge, and how it sits in the room is half the battle.
The Way It Sits in the Room
A back to wall bath is the genius hybrid. You get that slick, solid look of a freestanding tub but it’s pushed right up against the tiles. No more trying to wedge a mop into a dusty, hairy gap behind the bath. It's clean, seamless, and super popular for a reason. Of course, a true freestanding bath is a total showstopper. And yes, you can have one in a small room! The trick is that because you can see the floor underneath and around it, it creates an illusion of more space. It feels lighter, more like a piece of furniture than a bulky fixture. For that full resort feel, an island bath is designed to be the star of the show, often paired with dramatic floor-standing taps.
If your room has a strange layout or a sloping ceiling, a corner bath can be a brilliant move, fitting into a spot nothing else would. And you can’t forget the classic built-in bath, set into a tiled frame, or 'hob'. This is where you can get really creative. You can use the hob as a handy shelf for your shampoo bottles and candles, and your choice of tiles can make it either blend in or stand out as a feature. Need to combine everything? The shower bath is the undisputed champion of function, giving you a proper shower with a wider standing area and a proper bath in one tidy footprint.
Let's Talk Shapes
The shape really sets the mood. Clean, straight lines on rectangular baths feel modern and sharp, and they are the most efficient for maximising internal space. If you want something a bit softer and more calming, the gentle curves of oval baths feel more organic and inviting. For pure, unadulterated comfort, a slipper bath has a high, sloping back that just begs you to lean back and relax for a while. You can also find some really cool designs now. Tubs with texture, like fluted baths, add a bit of personality and visual interest. And for a truly bold look, there are even square baths and stunning round baths out there for those who want a real centrepiece.
Let's Talk Taps and Spouts
You’ve found the perfect tub, but don't forget its partner in crime: the tapware. The right taps can make or break the look. With a compact tub, the placement and style are extra important. You want it to look balanced and be easy to use. A spout that’s too long will look silly; too short and it’ll dribble down the side of the tub. Wall-mounted taps are a fantastic choice for a small space. They keep the edges of the bath clear and create a really clean, minimalist look. Hob-mounted taps, which sit on the tiled edge of a built-in bath, are the traditional, practical choice. And for a freestanding or island bath, nothing beats the elegance of a floor-mounted tap and mixer, rising up from the floor like a sculpture. Just make sure you get your plumber to plan for it early!
So, What's the Real Payoff?
Choosing a compact tub is about more than just making it fit. There are some real perks that you'll appreciate long after the reno is finished.
First, you get your floor back. That extra bit of open space makes a bathroom feel lighter, less stressful, and easier to clean. It’s a small change that has a big psychological impact. Second, you’re not giving up on style. You can get a high-end, modern look that feels intentional, not like a consolation prize. Third, it's just a bit more sensible. A smaller volume of water means a slightly smaller water bill and less work for your hot water heater. And for the ultimate treat, some compact models can even be fitted with jets. A private spa bath in your own home isn't out of the question. Not bad at all.
The Final Details to Nail Down
Just a couple more things to think about. Getting these right will mean you'll love your new bath for years to come. It’s the small stuff that makes a big difference.
The Feel of It: Material
The material changes everything—the look, the feel, and how long it lasts. Most people go for acrylic, and for good reason. A good quality, sanitary-grade acrylic bath isn't cold when you hop in, which is a lovely little luxury on a chilly morning. It’s a breeze to clean because it's non-porous (nowhere for gunk to hide), and it won't break your back or your budget getting it installed. For that heavy, luxurious, day-spa feel, a stone bath is unbeatable. It has a gorgeous, often matte, velvety finish and it holds the heat for ages, meaning a longer, warmer soak. Just be mindful that they are seriously heavy, so you’ll need to check your floor can handle the weight. Then you've got enamelled steel baths, which are incredibly tough and have a beautiful, bright gleam to them. They're built to last a lifetime and are a very hygienic choice.
The Look of It: Colour
White is the classic, can't-go-wrong choice. A white bath looks fresh and clean, and it lets you go wild with coloured tiles or towels. But colour can be amazing. A black bath is pure drama and sophistication. It acts as an anchor in the room and looks incredible paired with brass or brushed nickel taps. For a warmer, more relaxed vibe, the earthy tones of a clay-coloured bath can make the whole room feel softer and more inviting. It’s a great way to bring a bit of nature-inspired calm into your bathroom.
The People Who Make It: Brands
Choosing a good brand just gives you that peace of mind. You know you’re getting quality that's backed by a solid warranty. We’re pretty picky about who we work with. Look for names like Caroma, who are an Aussie institution, or Decina, who are masters of acrylic and offer a massive range. Fienza and ADP offer cracking contemporary designs, while Kaskade Stone is your go-to for those beautiful stone options. And you'll always get solid, reliable gear from Clark. We’ve also got amazing stuff from other top brands like Turner Hastings, Bao, and BelBagno. You're in good hands.
Tricks to Make the Room Feel Bigger
Okay, you've chosen your perfect compact bath. Now, how do you make sure the whole room feels as good as possible? A few design tricks can make a huge difference. Use large-format tiles on the floor and walls. Fewer grout lines trick the eye into seeing a larger, more seamless surface. Running the same tile from the floor right up the wall is a great pro tip. A big mirror is your best friend; it will bounce light around and create a feeling of depth. And think about your lighting. Good, layered lighting—not just a single oyster light in the middle of the ceiling—can make a small space feel much more inviting and open. Wall sconces beside the mirror or LED strip lighting in a niche can add a touch of magic.
So, a 1300mm bath is so much more than a compromise. It’s a clever bit of design that lets you have the bathroom you really want, even in a space that’s a bit challenging. It’s about making smart choices to create a room that works hard and feels great. Maybe it's time to give that small space another look, with a new perspective.
