I am too pragmatic to have a claw foot tub or even a freestanding one...I vote for the flat bottom bath (but make it a nice one) and PLEASE sit in the model before you install it!!!!

I had a spray painter do one in automotive two pack paint. It was a cast iron one that we sandblasted then painted. The enamel finish on the inside was ok so we just gave it a sand and painted it the same way. That was going back about 20 years..... The bath was not installed as it had been used as a water trough on a farm before we reused it so it was easy (heavy as hell though) to get it into the painters booth.

Bathroom renos can be daunting as there are many things to consider and usually the space can be limiting. Free standing baths are stunning and come in many shapes and sizes. You have mentioned that you and the boys will use the bath, ensure you factor in the "users" height as this will determine the bath size and depth. Firstly is the plumbing remaining in the same position? Floor mounted bath mixers can be installed with a concealed under floor box or the above floor connection method. The concealed box method is advisable before the flooring is installed, and has the benefit of a lower profile floor plate, which is preferred. The above floor method may be done where the first approach is not possible. Free standing bath mixers visually create an impact when paired with the freestanding tub, ensure you have enough room around the tub as it will be difficult to clean if it sits too close to walls and or vanities etc..many freestanding bath mixers offer functional hand showers as well as the spout, ideal for washing soap out of kids hair. Would love to see a lay out of your bathroom to assist with tap ware placement. Good luck with your bathroom renovations, always happy to assist you. Carmen Collaborative Interiors

Firstly, most baths for sale now are acrylic. Secondly if installing a stone or metal bath on the top floor, how would you get it up there? A crane may be required. And accessed through unbuilt walls or windows. Thirdly, if installing a stone or metal bath on the top floor, then the flooring has to be reinforced to provide a stable base for the weight of the bath and the water and the person. The stone or solid baths are double the price of acrylic baths. So overall, since no one will notice the difference, it is up to you and your budget.