There’s something about a freestanding bathtub that instantly changes how a bathroom feels.
It transforms the room from purely functional into a place to slow down, unwind, and recharge. Whether your style leans modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, today’s luxury bathrooms prove the tub isn’t simply another fixture. It’s the centrepiece.
The award-winning bathrooms below were designed by HAVAN members and recognized through the 2026 HAVAN Awards for Housing Excellence. Each showcases a different way to create a spa-inspired retreat that blends beauty, comfort, and everyday living.
Make Your Tub the Centrepiece
Four Seasons proves that one standout design feature is all it takes to create a truly luxurious bathroom.
Winner: Best New Bathroom
Builder: Infinity West Development Group Ltd.
Photo Credit: Martin Knowles Photo/Media
A sculptural freestanding soaker tub takes centre stage in front of a dramatic backlit onyx feature wall, instantly drawing the eye. Warm stone-inspired finishes, brushed gold accents, layered lighting, and a calming neutral palette complete the space, creating a private retreat that feels more like a five-star spa than a primary ensuite.
Design takeaway: Choose one statement feature and build the room around it. Whether it’s a dramatic stone wall, striking lighting, or a freestanding tub, a strong focal point creates a bathroom that feels timeless and luxurious.
Let the View Become Part of the Bathing Experience
Some bathrooms don’t simply include a freestanding tub. They build the entire room around it.
Builder: Black Thumb Contracting | Designer: Banfield Design Co.
Image Credit: Janis Nicolay Photography
The Ridge House places a sculptural soaking tub in the corner of the room, surrounded by windows on two sides that fill the space with natural light while maintaining privacy. Warm limestone-inspired porcelain, wood cabinetry, layered lighting, and brushed brass fixtures create a calming retreat that feels connected to nature. Every element was thoughtfully planned to support everyday wellness while delivering timeless luxury.
Design takeaway: If you have the opportunity, position your tub where it captures the best views and natural light. A well-placed window transforms a relaxing bath into an experience.
Frame the Tub Like a Piece of Art
The most memorable bathrooms don’t tuck the bathtub into a corner. Instead, they make it the focal point.
Builder: Marino General Contracting | Designer: Enviable Designs
Winner: Best Bathroom Renovation 50 sq ft and Over
Photo Credit: Tracey Ayton Photography
The award-winning Modern Retreat places a sculptural freestanding tub inside an elegant arched alcove. Soft curves, warm neutrals, textured tile, white oak cabinetry, and brass fixtures create a calm space that feels luxurious without being overdone. The layout also separates bathing, makeup, and circulation areas, giving the room a sense of order and openness.
Design takeaway: Position the tub where it becomes the first thing you notice when entering the room.
Let Natural Light Do the Heavy Lifting
Luxury doesn’t always come from expensive finishes. Sometimes it’s simply about the way light fills a room.
Builder: Teragon Developments & Construction Inc. | Architect: Vivid Green Architecture
Photo Credit: Tyler Garnham
Geary House transformed an unused attic into a serene primary suite, with a classic clawfoot tub sitting beneath a large window. Traditional wainscoting, timeless finishes, and heritage-inspired details create a peaceful retreat while preserving the home’s original character.
Design takeaway: Whenever possible, position a bathtub near natural light. It instantly creates a brighter, more relaxing atmosphere.
Mix Timeless Materials with Modern Comfort
Luxury bathrooms don’t need to chase trends.
free-standing tub, classic design, white gold
Builder: Capital Contracting
Photo Credit: Cory Stevens Photography
Ocean Surf blends classic design elements with practical features that will age gracefully. A freestanding tub anchors the room while a checkerboard tile floor, furniture-inspired vanity, wall-mounted faucets, and generous shower create a bathroom that feels elegant today and years from now. The layout also supports long-term accessibility with a low-curb shower and thoughtful fixture placement.
Design takeaway: Choose materials and fixtures that feel timeless instead of trendy.
Texture Creates Luxury
Colour isn’t the only way to create visual interest.
egg-shaped free-standing tub
Builder: Fifth Element Construction & Renovations Ltd
Photo Credit: Jonathan Folk Media
Spice of Life relies on layers of texture instead. Sand-toned tile, textured wallpaper, reeded cabinetry, opal glass lighting, and a freestanding tub combine to create a calming, spa-inspired atmosphere. Strategic lighting shifts the mood throughout the day, making the bathroom equally suited for busy mornings and relaxing evenings.
Design takeaway: Mix textures instead of adding more colours. The result feels warm, sophisticated, and relaxing.
Design Around the Bathing Experience
Sometimes the entire renovation begins with one question: How do we make soaking in the tub unforgettable? That’s exactly what inspired Starlit Soak.
bathtub with skylight, arched builtin
Builder: Fifth Element Construction & Renovations Ltd.
Photo Credit: Derek Stevens Photography
The bathtub was repositioned beneath an existing window, while a new skylight was added directly overhead to create a bathing experience surrounded by daylight and nighttime skies. An arched shower, handcrafted tile, layered lighting, and concealed storage complete the tranquil space.
Design takeaway: If space allows, make the tub the destination rather than an afterthought.
What Makes a Luxury Bathroom Feel Luxurious?
Every award-winning bathroom featured here has its own personality, but they all share a few design principles that elevate the everyday.
- A statement freestanding bathtub
- Natural light that creates a bright, calming atmosphere
- Timeless materials with warmth, texture, and lasting appeal
- Spa-inspired layouts designed for comfort and relaxation
- Thoughtful lighting that sets the mood
- Smart storage that keeps the space feeling uncluttered
- Quality craftsmanship that brings every detail together
The result is more than a beautiful bathroom. It’s a space that invites you to slow down, recharge, and enjoy a few moments of calm at the beginning or end of every day.
Which Style Is Right for You?
Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of a clawfoot tub, the drama of a backlit stone feature wall, or the serenity of a tub surrounded by natural light, the best luxury bathroom reflects how you want to live.
The common thread isn’t a particular style. It’s thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and creating a space you’ll enjoy every day.
Ready to Create Your Own Spa-Inspired Bathroom?
Whether you’re planning a full renovation or gathering ideas for your dream ensuite, the right team makes all the difference.
The award-winning bathrooms featured here were designed and built by HAVAN members who specialize in creating beautiful, functional spaces tailored to every lifestyle.
Visit the HAVAN Member Directory to connect with trusted builders, renovators, designers, and industry professionals ready to bring your vision to life.
