Couple Removes Bathtub to Create Walk-In Shower in Small London Flat
A London couple who prefer showers over baths removed their tub to free up space in a cramped bathroom. They designed a new layout with a walk-in shower and hidden storage, keeping the plumbing in place. The renovation cost $19,000 and resulted in a retro, colorful space that reflects their personal style.
The couple's decision was driven by practical concerns beyond simple preference. The existing shower curtain failed to protect the windowsill, leading to gradual rot in the wood trim. By keeping the plumbing in its original position, they avoided additional construction costs and complications.
Luiza handled the design herself, drawing inspiration from 1930s kitchen tile details and a Hoxton Hotel bathroom featuring mint green tiles paired with black-and-white fixtures. The four-week renovation required borrowing a neighbor's bathroom, which proved the most challenging aspect of the project.
This renovation reflects a broader shift in how urban dwellers prioritize bathroom functionality over traditional fixtures. As small apartments become more common in cities, homeowners may increasingly choose walk-in showers to maximize limited space. The project's success could encourage others to reconsider assumptions about what bathrooms must include, though such renovations require significant investment and may not suit households with children or mobility needs.