Square Baths

Square Baths: Your Complete Guide to Modern Soaking Tubs

So, you’re renovating the bathroom. Big job. And you're at the point where you need to pick a tub. It's a huge decision, one that kinda sets the tone for the whole room. You’ve seen the standard oval and rectangle tubs everywhere, right? But another shape is starting to show up in cool Aussie homes. The square bath. Yeah, it's a bit different. A bit more daring. And it can completely change the look of your bathroom. Baths aren't just for washing these days—they're for escaping.

Here at The Blue Space, we see it all the time. The right tub becomes the hero of the bathroom. We all want our house to reflect us, right? For heaps of people doing up their bathroom, the sharp, clean look of a square bath just clicks. It's got that modern, clean-cut feel that's hard to beat.

What in the World is a Square Bath?

Okay, it’s pretty straightforward. A square bath is a tub with four sides that are basically the same length. Instead of the long, skinny shape you’re used to, a square tub is more like your own little private plunge pool. It’s compact but deep. The look is all about clean, geometric lines. Very modern. There's something about the symmetry... it just makes a room feel calm and ordered. It's a good feeling to have in a bathroom. You'll also notice the walls inside are usually steeper than the tubs you grew up with. This gives you a more upright, supported way to sit while you soak, and man, can you soak. They’re designed for a proper deep submersion without needing the length of a normal bathtub. It's a clever design that's smart with both space and water.

Where Can You Actually Put a Square Bath?

You might be picturing a square tub only in some massive, fancy bathroom, but that’s not the whole story. They’re actually super versatile. Got a small bathroom? A compact square bath can be a lifesaver. You can tuck it into a corner and suddenly you've got way more floor space than a long tub would ever give you. It stops the room from feeling cramped. Seriously, think about that little ensuite where you figured a bath was just a dream. One of our small square baths could slide in there perfectly.

Now, if you DO have a big master bathroom, a square bath can be an absolute showstopper. Put a freestanding square tub right in the middle of the room. Boom. Instant focal point. Suddenly, your tub isn't just a tub; it’s a feature. Like a cool piece of furniture. It’s the kind of thing that gives you that proper luxury hotel vibe, right in your own home. The shape gives you so many options for tapware and just feels incredibly luxe. It’s a power move, design-wise.

The Different Flavours of Square Baths

Square bathtubs are not all the same. They come in different setups, sizes, and styles. Knowing what's what will help you find the absolute perfect one for your reno.

How They're Installed

• Freestanding: This is the cover model, the one that gets all the attention. A freestanding square bath stands on its own, away from the walls. You need a bit of room around it, but the visual impact is huge. Looks amazing with a tap that comes right up out of the floor.

• Back to Wall: A really clever design. You get the chunky, modern look of a freestanding model, but it's pushed right up against the wall. The best part? No more gross, dusty gap behind the tub that's impossible to clean. Plus, you get back a little bit of floor space. Check out our back-to-wall baths.

• Corner: The ultimate space-maximiser. A corner bath slots right into, you guessed it, a corner. Great for smaller or odd-shaped rooms. Many have a little built-in ledge for your shampoo or a glass of bubbly. Super practical.

• Built-in: This is where you can really make your mark. You build a frame around the tub and tile it. Match the tiles to the rest of the room to make it blend in, or go wild with a patterned tile to make the bath the star of the show. Have a look at our built-in baths.

Finding Your Size

Don't get too hung up on the word "square". Not all of them are a perfect 1:1 ratio. It's more about the blocky, compact shape compared to a long rectangle. And there are plenty of sizes.

• Compact Crew: For those cosy spaces, you can find awesome little tubs around 1200mm or 1300mm. To make up for the shorter length, they're usually nice and deep. You still get a fantastic soak.

• The Sweet Spot: Your 1400mm and 1500mm tubs are probably the most common for a reason. They're roomy enough for a proper solo soak and they don't hog all the space in a standard-sized bathroom.

• Go Large: If you've got the space, a 1600mm, 1700mm, or even bigger tub is just awesome. Seriously. It's big enough for two, or it can be a ridiculously massive, luxurious tub just for you.

A Few Special Mentions

Just when you thought you knew it all, there are a few other styles to think about.

• Spa Baths: Want your own private spa? A square spa bath has jets that massage you with water or air. Yes please.

• Island Baths: These are like freestanding baths but with a wider edge or rim around them. That little ledge on an island bath is surprisingly handy for all your bath-time essentials.

• Shower Baths: A bit less common for square tubs, but some L-shaped shower baths use a squared-off end to give you a roomy, stable area for showering.

• Fluted Baths: You'll see some baths with these cool vertical ridges on the side. That's a fluted bath. It just adds a bit of texture and looks seriously classy.

Why You'll Love a Square Bath

Picking a square bath isn't just about looks. It comes with some real perks.

1. It Just Looks So Cool and Modern

Let's be honest, square baths look amazing. The straight lines and crisp angles are instantly refreshing and modern. In a sea of curvy tubs, a square one really stands out and makes a statement. It’s the perfect partner for simple tapware, big tiles, and a minimalist vibe. If you’re chasing that boutique hotel look for your own bathroom, a square tub gets you most of the way there on its own.

2. The Soak is Next Level

A lot of square tubs are engineered for a deep, satisfying soak. Because they are more compact, designers often add extra depth. It means you can sink right down so the water is over your shoulders. That's the key to a good soak. You sit a bit more upright, which is great if you're reading. It's less about lounging and more about being properly submerged and supported.

3. It’s a Secret Space-Saver

Here's a neat trick: a square bath can make a small room feel bigger. Sounds weird, right? But a 1400mm square tub uses less floor length than a standard 1700mm rectangle. That 30cm you get back? It's a game-changer for how the room feels. Suddenly you can fit a real, deep bath in a spot you'd written off.

What Are These Tubs Made From Anyway?

Picking the right material is important. It changes the feel of the bath, how tough it is, and even how long your water stays hot.

• Acrylic: This is the go-to for most people. Acrylic is light, affordable, and warm to the touch. It's easy to get up a flight of stairs and doesn't suck the heat out of your water. Plus, it's a breeze to clean. Good quality acrylic is tough and looks fantastic.

• Solid Surface / Stone: This is the luxury option. A stone composite bath feels amazing—solid, smooth, and substantial. They hold heat like a champion, so you can soak for ages. They are heavy, though, so just get your builder to check your floor can handle it.

• Steel Enamel: The old faithful. Steel baths are incredibly hard-wearing. You'd have a hard time scratching one. The enamel coating is shiny, slick, and easy to keep clean. It's a bit cold when you first get in, sure, but it heats up in no time.

Let's Talk Colour

White is always a winner, but why not consider something else?

• Classic White: Look, you just can't go wrong with a white bath. It’s fresh, clean, and goes with everything. It’s the definition of timeless.

• Bold Black: Want to make a statement? A black bath is pure drama and sophistication. Imagine it against plain white tiles for a massive contrast. Or, lean into a darker theme and make the whole room feel sophisticated and moody.

• Earthy Tones: If you want a softer look, some stone tubs come in these amazing natural shades. We're talking clay, light grey, that kind of thing. It gives the room a really chilled-out, natural feeling. Very spa-ish.

Brands We Trust

Look, a bath is a big purchase. You want to buy from a brand you can trust to make good stuff that lasts. We're pretty fussy about who we stock, and these are some of the best.

• Caroma: An Aussie legend. You know you're getting quality and smart design.

• Decina: The masters of acrylic tubs, with a massive range including some brilliant spa models.

• Turner Hastings: For that touch of European class, their designs are simply elegant.

• Kaskade Stone: If you're after a stunning stone bath, these guys are specialists.

• BAO: Their tubs are like sculptures. For when you want something truly special.

• Fienza: Always on-trend with stylish designs that won't blow the budget.

• ADP: Great quality stuff, made right here in Australia.

• Belbagno: For that sharp, stylish Italian look in your bathroom.

• Clark: Good, solid stuff that's built to handle family life.

So yeah, a square bath is a really smart pick for a modern bathroom. It's stylish without trying too hard, a little bit different, and the deep soak is just unbeatable. Doesn't matter if your bathroom is the size of a closet or a ballroom, there's a square tub that will fit. Have a look around, see what you think. You'll end up with a bathroom you genuinely love spending time in.

Frequently Asked Questions