Walk-In Shower or Tub: The 2025 Resale Debate
Design platforms report a surge in saved bathroom remodels featuring walk-in showers, which now appear in twice as many projects as traditional tubs. This shift reflects buyer demand for open layouts, seamless tile installations, and ambient spa lighting that define contemporary bathrooms. Homeowners face a key decision during upgrades: convert to a shower-only space for style and convenience, or retain a tub to safeguard property value?
Personal experience from a recent bungalow renovation underscores this tension. A preference for relaxing soaks clashed with the needs of a busy family, leading to a practical shower choice. These elements shape daily comfort, long-term accessibility, and market competitiveness. The case studies below illustrate successful approaches in diverse homes, highlighting ways to integrate aesthetics, utility, and buyer expectations.
Case Study 1: Urban Soak
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Designer: Mason Reed Studio
A deep freestanding tub anchors this compact loft bathroom, positioned against a charcoal plaster wall illuminated by slender sconces. Brushed brass hardware pairs with concrete-look porcelain flooring to add warmth and tactile interest. The designer opted to retain the tub over a shower-only configuration, emphasizing its appeal to urban buyers seeking a luxurious focal point. Industrial elements merge with high-end finishes, yielding a durable space that supports both indulgence and routine use.
Case Study 2: Classic Revival
Location: Charleston, South Carolina
Designer: Willow Gray Interiors
In a historic townhouse, a clawfoot tub coated in deep navy enamel serves as the centerpiece. Hand-painted wallpaper in subtle metallic hues covers the walls, complemented by polished nickel fixtures that capture and distribute soft illumination. Restoration of the original cast-iron tub preserved architectural integrity, avoiding replacement with a walk-in shower. This tub enhances family functionality while reinforcing the home's timeless character through elegant, updated details.
Case Study 3: Cottage Refresh
Location: Burlington, Vermont
Designer: Heather Lyle Home
A compact soaking tub nestles under a window edged with reclaimed pine in this farmhouse update. Beadboard paneling in soft sage adorns the walls, while white hexagonal tiles cover the floor. The designer prioritized retaining the tub for resale strength in family-centric areas, where parents value bathing options for children. Vintage-inspired fixtures blend nostalgia with reliable performance, creating an inviting room that balances heritage and everyday needs.
Case Study 4: Desert Retreat
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
Designer: Studio Elara
Sand-hued limestone tiles and brushed bronze fixtures evoke natural textures in this indoor-outdoor bathroom. A frameless walk-in shower occupies a corner, topped by a skylight that mimics desert sunlight. Elimination of a corner tub freed space for a linen closet and double vanity, prioritizing comfort and efficiency. Slip-resistant surfaces and water-efficient features support longevity, drawing inspiration from resort aesthetics while accommodating daily routines.
Case Study 5: Nordic Simplicity
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Designer: Field & Frost Design
Pale gray ceramic tiles line a fully integrated walk-in shower, paired with a white oak ceiling panel in this streamlined bath. Heated flooring extends from the shower into the vanity zone for uninterrupted warmth. Replacement of an obsolete built-in tub enhanced efficiency and ease of movement. Scandinavian principles guide the neutral palette and barrier-free design, promoting accessibility and broad market appeal through clean, adaptable lines.
Strategic Remodeling Choices
Evaluate layout impacts when selecting between a tub and shower. Tub removal in tight spaces allows installation of dual vanities or additional storage, expanding perceived roominess. In spacious homes, preserving one bathtub maintains flexibility for varied buyer lifestyles.
Target audience guides the decision. Professionals in urban settings favor minimalist showers for their speed and low maintenance. Families and aging buyers prefer tub-shower combinations for safety and relaxation options.
Choose materials that elevate value: select porcelain or natural stone tiles resistant to wear, paired with corrosion-proof fixtures in consistent metallic tones. Opt for neutral schemes like crisp whites, muted grays, or earthy stones to ensure versatility across decor styles. Incorporate layered lighting, such as recessed ceiling fixtures and wall-mounted options, to accentuate surfaces and foster tranquility.
Prioritize accessibility features like curbless entries, adjustable showerheads, and built-in benches. These elements accommodate diverse users, from children to seniors, and position the home for future adaptability. Deep tubs require additions like grab bars to mitigate risks, ensuring visual appeal aligns with practical safety.
Daily Benefits of Your Choice
After installation, assess how the design integrates into routines. Walk-in showers facilitate rapid morning preparations, simplified cleaning, and an airy atmosphere that enhances smaller bathrooms. Tubs offer opportunities for unwinding, providing restorative pauses amid hectic schedules.
Hybrid solutions, such as a modest tub adjacent to an enclosed shower, deliver versatility. Select based on household dynamics: prioritize showers for efficiency in high-traffic homes, or tubs for therapeutic value in relaxation-focused spaces. This tailored approach maximizes enjoyment and sustains long-term value.
