Luxury Showers vs. Whirlpool Tubs, Thoughts?

New home design trends vary widely in nature from the latest colors and materials to enduring features with a presence that spans decades.  Take for instance the whirlpool tub, an expected feature in owner’s bathrooms for the past 20 years.  The whirlpool tub is considered by most to be a prerequisite in the move-up home market.  But even as this icon of luxury holds its mandatory status today, some  home buyers  and home builders alike are now questioning the need for the whirlpool bath. 

In recent years, luxury shower accommodations have gained favor in the move-up home buyer market and for good reason.  Simply put, Americans are more likely to shower than bathe.  Furthermore, shower technologies have advanced with rain-shower heads, temperature controls, body spray jets and water-efficient designs.

As new homes offer advanced shower applications and the shower expands its presence, we are left to wonder, “Should the whirlpool tub remain a part of the owner’s bath experience?”  In some cases, the bathroom configuration can be improved by removing the large tubs and using a smaller garden tub and gaining a larger shower area.  In other cases homeowners have asked to remove the tub altogether, opting for a bathroom design centered on a luxury shower.  Nevertheless the option is yours when you purchase a new home. 

So what do you think?  Is the whirlpool tub a must-have in your owner’s bath?  Or would you prefer a garden tub?  What about no tub at all and a larger luxury shower?  Email us your thoughts at BlogFeedback@jwhomes.com.

Authored by, Shane Roach, VP of Homebuilding Operations for John Wieland Homes and Neighborhoods