Tub or No Tub? Making the Right Call for Your Home

At Arcane Grain, we hear this question all the time from Raleigh homeowners: "Do I really need a tub in my primary bath?"

It used to be non-negotiable. But today, more and more people are opting for larger walk-in showers and skipping the tub altogether.

So how do you decide?

Start With How You Live

If you haven’t used your bathtub in years, that’s worth paying attention to.

Many couples find they only use the shower, even in luxury homes. In that case, removing the tub can free up space for a spa-worthy shower, double vanity, or added storage.

We recently worked with homeowners in Apex who hadn’t used their tub in over five years. What they really wanted was a rainfall shower, heated floors, and better lighting. By removing the tub, we created a space they now describe as their favorite part of the house.

For some, a tub is still a sanctuary. If you truly unwind in the bath, or if you’re planning for kids, that’s a strong reason to keep it.

This decision should begin with your actual habits—not just design trends.

Think About Resale (But Don't Let It Run the Show)

In the Raleigh market, most buyers want at least one tub somewhere in the home.

But it doesn’t always need to be in the primary suite. If you have a hall bath or guest bath with a tub, that’s often enough to satisfy future buyers.

So if removing your primary bath tub allows for major quality-of-life improvements, it can absolutely be the right move.

We’ve helped plenty of homeowners make this trade-off, and they’ve never looked back.

In Cary, one couple chose to eliminate their large garden tub in favor of a larger shower with a bench, two shower heads, and integrated lighting. When they later listed their home, feedback centered on the elegance and function of the updated bathroom—not the missing tub.

Consider Space and Flow

Primary bathrooms are rarely huge, especially in older Triangle homes. Removing a tub can open up the floor plan, making the room feel more functional and serene.

You can:

• Install a zero-threshold shower

• Expand counter space

• Add a linen cabinet or laundry drop zone

Some homeowners choose to include built-in seating or additional vanity storage, improving both the visual flow and the morning routine.

Every square foot counts. And what you gain in space might matter more than what you lose in tub volume.

The Emotional Factor

For some homeowners, tubs carry nostalgia or emotional weight. Maybe you remember bathing your children there. Or maybe it just symbolizes rest.

That’s valid. Remodeling is personal, and we always encourage clients to weigh emotional value alongside function.

If you’re even a little unsure, there are creative ways to include a smaller soaking tub without sacrificing flow.

One family in Durham opted for a Japanese-style soaking tub with a compact footprint and deep basin. It offered the relaxation they wanted without dominating the room.

Future-Proofing Your Remodel

Another consideration is aging in place. Many Raleigh-Durham homeowners plan to stay in their homes long-term, and that means thinking ahead.

Walk-in showers with no thresholds, built-in benches, and handheld sprayers can offer greater comfort and accessibility over time.

Removing the tub may not just be a style choice—it can be a move toward safety and long-term ease.

Final Thoughts on the Tub or no Tub Decision

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer in the tub or no tub debate.

The right choice depends on how you live now, what brings you comfort, and how you plan to use your space.

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If you're wrestling with the tub question, Arcane Grain can help you think it through. Let's design a bathroom that feels just right for your next chapter.

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