Slipping into a luxurious stone bath or an outdoor bath after a long day feels like a reward and a reset, right in your own home. But if you’re on the hunt for the perfect stone tub for your bathroom, it isn’t just about what looks good on Pinterest or Instagram. Making the right choice means thinking about space, style, function, and what will suit your unique needs for years to come, so choose wisely.
Stone bathtubs look stunning and can turn an ordinary bathroom into a day spa. Still, the path to finding one isn’t always obvious. Here’s a closer look at the things to weigh up before you decide.
There’s a reason these baths are at the top end of the market. Stone tubs are typically crafted from either natural or composite stone, and that brings some pretty incredible attributes:
● Natural insulation: Stone holds warmth, keeping your bathwater hotter for longer.
● Sturdy: They’re heavy-duty and solid – these tubs won’t flex or creak.
● Unique: Many natural stone options mean no two baths are exactly the same.
● Luxury: Instantly elevate the look and feel of your bathroom.
But like anything premium, there are trade-offs. Stone tubs are generally heavier, pricier, and they need a bit of planning ahead when it comes to installation.
Size: The First Big Question
Before you fall for a sculptural tub on a showroom floor, take out your tape measure. Stone baths come in a massive range of shapes and sizes, including the versatile hugi range. The right one will depend on your bathroom dimensions and who’s going to use it.
Factors for sizing up:
● Bathroom layout: Will the tub be a feature or tucked into a corner?
● Height and depth: Deeper tubs allow soaking, but are you (or your guests) comfortable stepping in and out?
● Length and width: Standard tubs start at about 1500mm, but some stretch to over 1800mm. Measure twice before you buy.
● Clearance space: There should be at least 100mm between your tub and walls for easy cleaning – more if you want a freestanding bath look.
Handy tip: Sketch your layout or use CAD software, then play around with possible tub positions. Your supplier, such as Domenic Bathroom Ware, can help with this step.
Materials: Natural Stone vs. Composite
Let’s talk material. Both natural and composite stone bathtubs can look spectacular, but there are some real differences.
|
Material |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Natural Stone |
Authentic look, unique veining, durable |
Heavier, pricier, needs careful installation |
|
Composite Stone |
Lighter, more affordable, easier to shape |
Still heavy, may scratch/chip over time |
Natural stone tubs (think marble, granite, travertine) offer one-of-a-kind finishes that feel genuinely organic. But at 200–500kg (empty!), they’ll need serious floor support.
Composite stone (made from crushed stone and resin) keeps the look but with a bit less weight and cost. Newer blends are tough and look very convincing, making them a popular choice for homes where natural stone just isn’t practical.
Style: Shape, Colour, and Finish
Here’s where you can throw your personality into the mix.
Shapes Galore
● Oval: Soft, classic, great for long soaks.
● Rectangular: Modern and neat; fits well against walls or in alcoves.
● Round: Makes a big statement, needs more room.
● Freestanding bath: Looks great from all angles, perfect for larger rooms or even as a luxurious outdoor bath.
● Back-to-wall: Halfway between built-in and freestanding, offers a compromise for space and style, while being suitable for the Hugi range.
Colour Choices
White and off-white baths are most common, but stone offers scope for everything from raw grey to dramatic black or even warmer shades like beige or charcoal. Lighter colours give a clean, spa feel; darker tubs pop as a focal point but can make a space feel smaller.
Surface Finishes
● Polished: Glossy, smooth, more reflective.
● Honed: Matte, velvety, understated.
● Textured: Looks rugged and natural; needs extra cleaning care.
Weight: Don’t Ignore the Elephant in the Room
The average stone bath weighs anything from 150kg (composite) to 500kg or more (marble/stone). That’s before you add water or a person inside. Floor strength isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s vital.
What to consider:
- Is your bathroom on a concrete slab or wooden floor?
- How much weight can your floor support? (Your builder can help with this calculation.)
- Do you need to reinforce the floor? This might add to your project cost.
- Will it fit through the house? Stone tubs don’t bend, so measure your doorways and hallways.
For apartments or upstairs bathrooms, weight is usually the main limiting factor.
Comfort: Try Before You Buy
While aesthetics matter, you want your soaks to be comfortable, too. Some things to check before committing to a particular tub:
● Is the backrest sloped enough for lounging?
● Do your shoulders and neck feel supported?
● If two people might use the bath together, is it wide enough?
● Can you reach the floor or do you float? (This affects how relaxing the experience is.)
Test sitting in different models in the showroom and choose the one that best fits your needs. Don’t be shy — staff expect it!
Maintenance: Keeping Your Bath Beautiful
Stone tubs do require a bit of looking after.
● Always check what sealant (if any) your tub has. Natural stone often needs to be resealed every couple of years.
● Clean with mild, non-abrasive detergents — no harsh bleach or gritty scrubs.
● Wipe spills promptly, especially with marble which can stain from oils or dyes.
● Consider a regular gentle polish (as recommended by the supplier) to maintain the finish.
Composite tubs are a bit easier to maintain, but good habits keep both types looking fresh and flawless.
Price Guide: What’s the Damage?
Stone tubs are definitely a statement piece when it comes to price. Here’s a quick ballpark for New Zealand, featuring the hugi range:
|
Type |
Approximate Price (NZD) |
|
Composite Stone |
$3,000 – $7,000 |
|
Natural Stone |
$6,000 – $25,000+ |
Extras such as delivery, installation, and floor reinforcement are typically not included and should be budgeted for as well.
Delivery and Installation: Watch Out for Pitfalls
A freestanding bath cannot be simply dropped in and plumbed up like a basic acrylic model.
Things to check:
● Entry paths: Measure doorways, stairs, and halls. You may need to remove a window or use a hoist.
● Delivery timing: These baths are often made to order and can take 4–12 weeks.
● Experienced installer: Not every plumber or builder installs stone baths regularly.
● On-site access: Even tile and vanity work should be done around the bath, to avoid damage during late placement.
Many suppliers, including Domenic Bathroom Ware, can help coordinate this process and avoid costly surprises.
Sustainability: Good for You and the Planet?
Some composite stone tubs are manufactured using recycled materials and eco-resins, making them a better choice for the environment when you choose wisely. Natural stone is low on chemicals and can be long-lasting, but check that it’s sourced responsibly to minimise environmental impact.
Ask about certifications, recycling options, or the supplier’s own environmental commitments.
Customisation: Making It Yours
Another selling point for stone baths is the level of customisation possible.
● Size/shape: Many brands will alter length, width, or height for a custom fit.
● Cut-outs: Want a headrest or tap ledge? Ask if it's an option.
● Drain position: Customise right or left, depending on your layout.
Check lead times and extra charges for these tweaks. Sometimes, waiting a few extra weeks is worth getting it just right.
Why Go Through All This for a Bathtub?
Choosing a stone bath or an outdoor bath isn’t just about ticking a box or snagging a trend. For many, it’s about building a space where you want to linger — maybe with a glass of wine, a book, or just your thoughts. It’s a tactile centrepiece with real personality.
In a country like New Zealand, where people value quality and materials that last, these tubs make a real impact and can even boost the value of your home.
And when you’re ready? Get advice from people who know bathrooms inside out. A showroom visit can help you feel the difference, and experts like those at Domenic Bathroom Ware are happy to listen, suggest, and help bring your bathroom vision to life right down to the tiny details.
Imagine slipping into that perfect stone bath and finally switching off. That’s the goal.