When building or buying a new home, your bathroom layout isn’t just about function – it’s about lifestyle. The right mix of tubs and showers affects comfort, resale value, and how well your home fits your needs for years to come.
Your bathroom design influences:
Functionality – for families, guests, or aging in place.
Space – tubs take more room; walk-ins feel open.
Resale value – most buyers expect at least one bathtub in a home.
Bathtubs Offer:
| Bathtub Pros | Bathtub Cons |
|---|---|
| Luxury look: Freestanding soaking tubs are functional art. | Takes space: Large tubs can dominate square footage. |
| Relaxation: Perfect for stress relief and sore muscles — your own spa day at home. | Harder access: Not ideal for those with mobility challenges. |
| Family-friendly: Easier for bathing kids and pets. | Water use: Filling a tub consumes more water and energy. |
| Resale boost: For future buyers there should be at least one tub in the home. |
Prefer a Shower? Consider these pros and cons:
| Shower Pros | Shower Cons |
|---|---|
| On trend: Large, walk-in showers with tile surrounds are replacing tub-shower combos in new builds. | More upkeep: Glass doors need regular cleaning to prevent mineral buildup. |
| Custom comfort: Rain showerheads, benches, and steam options bring the spa home. | Less kid-friendly: Not ideal for small children. |
| Safe and accessible: Curbless designs make aging in place easier. | No soak factor: Missing that end-of-day relaxation. |
| Eco-friendly: Uses less water than a bathtub. |
The Best of Both Worlds
The best choice might just be a mixture of tubs and showers.
Combo option: A tub-shower combo saves space while offering versatility – ideal for guest or secondary bathrooms.
Separate spaces: If your layout allows, include both – a freestanding tub and walk-in shower in the primary suite.
Design Trends in New Construction
New homes today blend luxury with practicality. Popular features include:
Matte black or brushed brass fixtures
Large-format tile walls for seamless, easy-to-clean surfaces
Zero-threshold showers for accessibility
Smart temperature controls for customized comfort
Sustainability and Efficiency
Modern fixtures make it easier to stay eco-conscious:
Low-flow showerheads and insulated tubs reduce water and energy use.
Tankless water heaters provide steady comfort while cutting waste.
Natural light design – think transom windows or skylights – keeps bathrooms bright and efficient.
Cost Considerations
Factor in costs as you decide on the best options.
A walk-in shower with glass enclosure may cost more upfront than a standard combo but adds value and long-term usability.
A freestanding tub is a premium feature that can elevate resale appeal in luxury markets.
In smaller homes, choosing one versatile combo can free up square footage for other must-haves.
Thinking Ahead
Your needs will change – plan for them now.
Building new gives you the chance to future-proof with curbless showers, wider doorways, or walk-in tubs.
For resale, balance design with universal features that work for all ages and lifestyles.
The Final Decision:
You need to pick what works for you, but keep this in mind:
Choose what fits your lifestyle now and later.
If you value convenience, go for a spacious walk-in shower.
If relaxation and family routines matter, include at least one bathtub.
And if you can? Have both – your future self will thank you.
Ready to design your dream bathroom? Check out NewHomeSource for inspiration and the most complete listings of new home communities near you.
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Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.