@ susan_66 ..precisely my thoughts on revisiting this forum! Just purchased a soft rubbery head rest designed to fit over the edge of these 'modern' baths...so have a headrest that is softer. On revisiting the PICS...YES that metal bath does look creepy and institutional-like but suppose somebody would think it the epitome of class.. PIc No 4...still reminds me of our half-a-wine barrel-tub we had as a make do as kids but the nostalgia would still not make me buy one. Am somewhat perplexed with some of the design features or lack of that are presenting to house-makers as the ultimate in style and trend. I think that some younger people with the idea of being "with it" and having perhaps little experience and more money than sense would go for any of these bath tub ideas. Whatever constitutes comfort to me...I'm all for it ! I really like the look of some of those free standing tubs with the high backs, many with rolled edges...that to me resemble ornaments. I wonder if they would also be comfortable...some seem very short and I like to be able to stretch out in the bath and relax. @ Luke Buckle...with susan_66...I do not like any of these tubs and would not trade my long, heavy enamelled cast iron tub set up against the wall looking out to the plants arranged on the northern veranda for any of these.

Ok first, the 750 wide bath gives 250 more wall space between shower and bath to allow a 750 wide towel rail there allowing for bath sheet size towels. For me this is the most important. Depending on how many towel rails you need you could consider hanging them on walls at back or side of bath too. This addresses functionality first. Opt C out. Niches. Cutting and tiling a niche hole in a brick wall is expensive compared to framing a little height change at end of bath. Niches are also harder to clean and will offer less shelf space. But will add width to area not reduce it. I don’t see an issue with messiness having it on same wall as shower niche. It’s your choice. A fuller floor plan may also help people commenting. Good luck

You will need a bath with three or four tile flanges to match the one in the first photo. It has to do with complying with the building regulations for waterproofing and protecting the timber framing that is under the tiles. If the edge of the bath where it meets the tiles is not properly protected from water seeping through then concealed wet rot could start, and eventually everything will need to be ripped out, and built again. Sometimes even the timber floor joists under the bath rot out and need to be replaced. So I would do your research and co-ordinate carefully with your builder to ensure that the details are correctly built. Some builders will not go to the trouble of getting it right as they don't care if your bath falls through a rotten floor in ten years time. Quite often your choices in the bathroom should also take into account the long term functionality of the bathroom, rather than just the aesthetics. Best of luck with your research, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls/Dr Retro Virtual Visits.

my first suggestion has minimal plumbing changes and no wall changes although i would reverse hinges on the entry door, space for a 90 x 90 shower and rotating the toilet should be quite straightforward for a 730 wide toilet space ( a little tight but adequate for most people especially if you're ok with a 620 door) a standard 1500 x 450-500 vanity will fit under the window and the gap at one end is ideal for hanging a hairdryer with a handtowel rail higher up the wall, there's wall space next to the shower for a bath towel rail and a mirror doored wall cabinet would be ideal...and, for a little more expense another option with a double shower.. a relative term with bathrooms that are always more expensive than expected but well worth obtaining quotes to find out costs for both options for comparison..ie do you want a generous shower or vanity? btw i think moving walls in a solid brick house has potential unwelcome surprises and doesn't improve options and installing different fixtures will need new flooring and waterproofing anyway so no better time to do a full upgrade and changes to the floor is the best way to achieve a walk in shower but you need to discuss with a plumber before making any decisions