freestanding bath with shower ideas

5 Freestanding Bath with Shower Ideas for a Smarter Layout

Written by: Dimitri Zobnin

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Time to read 7 min

Thinking about adding a freestanding bath with a shower to your bathroom but not sure where to start? You’re in the right place.


Freestanding baths are a statement piece, but combining them with a shower takes a little planning. Whether you’ve got a compact ensuite or a spacious family bathroom, it’s possible to get the best of both worlds with the right setup.


In this guide, we’ll walk you through five freestanding bath with shower ideas. From space-saving layouts to screen and fixture tips, you’ll find inspiration for your bathroom renovation to help you design a bathroom that’s both practical and easy on the eye.

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1. Wall-Mounted Showers Over Freestanding Baths

freestanding bath with shower ideas
If your bath is positioned against or near a wall, you can install a wall-mounted shower head above it. This setup is a practical solution for combining bathing and showering, offering both style and utility in one space. It is also one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to combine a shower with a freestanding bath.

Things to consider:

  • Make sure the wall is properly tiled and sealed.
  • Use a shower riser kit with a handheld option for extra flexibility.

  • A wall-mounted shower can be a modern shower option, providing a sleek and contemporary look.

Need more inspiration? Check out our shower over bath ideas for stylish ways to make this layout work.

2. Ceiling-Mounted Shower Heads for a Statement Look

For freestanding baths positioned in the centre of the room, a ceiling-mounted shower head creates a bold focal point. This works best in bathrooms with high ceilings, good ventilation, and plenty of natural light from skylights or large windows.


Top tips:


  • This setup is ideal for bathrooms with more space, as it allows for a central bath placement.

  • Choose a rainfall-style shower head for wide coverage.

  • Add a circular or square rail with a shower curtain to help contain water.

  • Ensure drainage is carefully planned beneath the bath.

3. Floor-Standing Bath Shower Mixers

A floor-standing mixer with a handheld shower attachment offers the best of both worlds. These are ideal for use with a freestanding tub, especially for anyone who doesn’t need a full overhead shower but still wants the convenience of rinsing off.


At House of ENKI, our range of freestanding bath taps comes in different finishes to suit any bathroom style.


Benefits:


  • Easy to install next to a freestanding bath or freestanding tub.

  • No need for wall or ceiling support.

  • Adds a sleek, modern touch.

  • Choice of mixer style depends on personal preferences for both style and functionality.

4. Glass Shower Screens for Freestanding Baths

bath with glass shower screen
Adding a fixed or hinged glass shower screen can help you use a freestanding bath as a shower without worrying about water splashing everywhere. Look for minimal, frameless designs to keep the open feel of your bathroom.

Good to know:

  • Choose toughened safety glass for durability.
  • Frameless designs offer clean lines for a modern, uncluttered look.

  • Consider a pivot screen that swings inwards or outwards.

  • Pair with a freestanding or wall-mounted shower system.

5. Smart Layout Ideas for Small Bathrooms

small bathroom
Short on space? You can still enjoy a freestanding bath and shower combo with some clever planning, these ideas are perfect for making the most of a small space.

Ideas for tight spaces:

  • Tuck a back-to-wall freestanding bath into a corner and mount the shower on the adjacent wall, a great solution for a small bathroom.
  • Use compact or freestanding tubs with a smaller footprint, or consider straight baths as a traditional option that fits well in a small bathroom layout.

  • Install a wraparound curtain rail for full water protection without bulky screens.

Design ideas include luxurious marble tiles, stylish grey tiles for a modern touch, and slipper baths for a touch of classic elegance. These features can help create an inviting atmosphere and a sense of luxury in your bathroom.


Looking to maximise compact layouts? Our small shower room ideas guide is full of clever tricks and layout hacks to help you design around limited square footage.

Which Fixtures Work Best?

freestanding bath

When choosing fixtures for your setup, think about more than just looks. Fixtures are available in a range of styles, from contemporary designs that offer a sleek, modern look to those with timeless elegance that blend classic and modern features.


Your water pressure, layout, wall space and how the bathroom is used all make a difference. You’ll want fittings that not only match your bath but also work well in day-to-day use, especially if it’s a family bathroom.


Here’s a closer look at some of the most practical and popular options available at House of ENKI :

Freestanding Bath Taps with Shower Attachment

These floor-mounted taps are a go-to choice for freestanding baths, especially when the bath isn’t near a wall. Most come with a built-in handset, so you can shower, rinse or wash your hair with ease.


They are also a great match for a classic tub, adding timeless charm to your bathroom. One of the biggest advantages is that you don’t need to drill into walls or wall tiles, making them a flexible option during renovations.


They work especially well in centre-of-room bath setups and are available in finishes like chrome, brushed brass, and matte black — perfect for complementing both modern and period-style bathrooms.

Wall-Mounted Mixer Taps

Wall-mounted bath taps are ideal if your freestanding bath sits against or near a wall. They save floor space, look clean and keep surfaces clutter-free.


These taps are often found in traditional bathrooms, including Victorian-inspired spaces where classic design is a priority. With a modern, streamlined finish, they offer practical ease of use, whether you choose a single lever or twin-handle control.


Many people pair them with an overhead shower or a handheld shower head for extra functionality, especially when using the bath for daily showers.

Exposed or Concealed Shower Valves

Choosing between exposed and concealed shower valves comes down to your layout and style preferences.


Exposed shower valves are generally easier to install, making them a great option for renovation projects or older homes. They work well in traditional or industrial-style bathrooms, where visible pipework can add character and depth to the design.


On the other hand, concealed shower valves sit neatly behind the wall, with only the controls and showerhead visible. They’re ideal if you’re going for a sleek, minimal finish — particularly in modern bathrooms.


Tip: Make sure your wall can support a concealed valve setup before choosing it, as not all older homes are structurally suited for concealed installations.

Final Thoughts

There’s no single best way to install a freestanding bath with a shower — it all comes down to your space, needs and taste. Whether you’re going for a classic clawfoot tub with a vintage-style shower or a modern bathroom with black fittings and frameless glass, there’s plenty of scope to make it work.


At House of ENKI , we offer a wide range of taps, shower valves, and accessories in both classic and on-trend finishes like brushed brass, chrome, and matte black — so you can create a look that truly reflects your taste.


Ready to upgrade your bathroom? Explore our freestanding bath taps and shower sets to find the perfect match for your space.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need a thermostatic shower valve with a freestanding bath?

It’s highly recommended, especially if kids will be using the bath. Thermostatic shower valves maintain a steady temperature, even if someone flushes a toilet or runs a tap elsewhere. We stock a range of thermostatic shower valves that pair perfectly with both wall-mounted and freestanding setups.

2. What’s the difference between thermostatic and manual shower valves?

Thermostatic shower valves automatically maintain your set water temperature even if someone flushes a toilet elsewhere in the house. Manual shower valves require you to adjust the hot and cold flow yourself.


Need help choosing? Our thermostatic shower guide breaks down what to look for based on performance and safety.

3. Can I install a freestanding bath tap myself?

If you're confident with plumbing, floor-standing taps are relatively straightforward to install — especially with flexible connectors. That said, we recommend hiring a qualified plumber to ensure everything’s secure and leak-free.

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Dimitri Zobnin

Dimitri Zobnin is one of the co-founders of House of ENKI and brings his wealth of experience in home fixtures and design to each blog post. Passionate about high-quality kitchen and bathroom fittings, Dimitri provides practical advice on selecting products that suit your home’s needs. His insights are shaped by years of hands-on experience and a commitment to thoughtful design. Outside of writing, Dimitri enjoys keeping up with the latest trends in home improvement and tackling his own DIY projects.