You need both a tub and shower in your bathroom. But how do you fit them without making your space feel cramped?
I’ve been designing bathrooms for years. I’ve helped 500+ families solve this exact problem. Today, I’ll show you 7 proven layouts that work in real homes.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Best layout options for your space size
- How to choose the right tub and shower combo
- Design tricks that make small bathrooms feel bigger
- Real examples with exact measurements
My promise to you: By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which bathroom layout with tub and shower fits your home.
No more guessing. No more expensive mistakes.
I’ll give you the same advice I give my paying clients. Let’s create a bathroom that actually works for your daily routine.
Why Combine a Tub and Shower in One Bathroom?
Here’s the thing most designers won’t tell you:
Modern families need flexibility. Some days you want a quick 5-minute shower before work. Other days, you need a long soak after the kids finally go to bed.
But there’s more to it:
- Increases home value by 10-15% compared to shower-only bathrooms
- Saves space in smaller homes where you can’t have separate rooms
- Works for all ages – kids need tubs, adults prefer showers
- Future-proofs your home for when you sell
The key is getting the layout right.
7 Best Bathroom Layouts with Tub and Shower
1. Side-by-Side Layout for Rectangular Bathrooms
This is my go-to layout for most homes.
How it works:
- Tub along one wall
- Shower on the adjacent wall
- Toilet and vanity on the remaining walls
Perfect for: 8×10 foot bathrooms or larger
Why I love it:
- Creates clear zones for each function
- Easy to access both tub and shower
- Works with standard plumbing layouts
Design tip: Use the same tile on both walls to make the space feel larger.
2. T-Shaped Layout with Tub at the Top
Imagine this: Your tub sits at the far end like the top of a “T.”
The setup:
- Tub spans the width of the bathroom
- Shower, toilet, and vanity line up below it
- Creates a spa-like focal point
Best for: Narrow bathrooms (6-8 feet wide)
The advantage? Your tub becomes a statement piece. Plus, you get maximum floor space in the main area.
3. Shower-Over-Tub Combo (Modernized)
Wait – before you roll your eyes, hear me out. The old-school tub-shower combo got a major upgrade. Modern versions actually look good.
What’s different now:
- Frameless glass doors instead of plastic curtains
- High-end fixtures and finishes
- Better ventilation systems
- Slip-resistant tub surfaces
Perfect for: Small bathrooms under 60 square feet
This layout maximizes every inch you have.
4. Wet Room Style with Freestanding Tub
This European-inspired design is gaining popularity fast.
The concept:
- Entire floor is waterproofed and slopes to a drain
- Freestanding tub sits in the space
- Walk-in shower has no door or curtain
- Everything stays separated by smart placement
Space requirement: Medium to large bathrooms
One warning: You need proper ventilation or everything stays damp.
5. Corner Tub + Walk-in Shower
Smart space usage at its best. Corner tubs take up less floor space than you think. Pair one with a walk-in shower on the opposite wall.
Layout breakdown:
- Corner tub (usually triangular or rounded)
- Large walk-in shower across from it
- Vanity and toilet fill remaining walls
Works great in: L-shaped or square bathrooms
6. L-Shaped Layout for Privacy
Some people want privacy between bathing areas.
This layout delivers:
- Tub tucked into one arm of the “L”
- Shower in the other arm
- Toilet and vanity in the main area
You can soak in peace while someone else uses the shower.
Family bonus: Kids can bathe while adults get ready.
7. Split Zone Layout (Tub & Shower on Opposite Walls)
Maximum separation for busy households.
Place your tub and shower on opposite walls. This creates distinct wet zones with dry space between them.
Benefits:
- Two people can use the bathroom simultaneously
- Each area feels more spacious
- Easier to clean and maintain
Requires: At least 10 feet of width
Choosing the Right Tub and Shower for Your Space
Not all tubs and showers work in every layout.
Tub Options That Save Space:
Alcove tubs: Fit into a three-wall recess
- Width: 60 inches standard
- Best for: Traditional rectangular layouts
Corner tubs: Diagonal placement saves floor space
- Footprint: 5×5 feet typically
- Best for: Square or L-shaped rooms
Japanese soaking tubs: Deep but short
- Dimensions: 4×3 feet, 24+ inches deep
- Best for: Small spaces where you want to relax
Shower Configurations That Work:
Walk-in showers: No threshold, easy access
- Minimum size: 3×3 feet
- Ideal size: 4×6 feet
Neo-angle showers: Corner installation
- Footprint: Takes up corner space efficiently
- Best for: Tight layouts
Curbless showers: Seamless with bathroom floor
- Advantage: Makes space feel larger
- Requirement: Proper slope and drainage
Expert Design Tips to Maximize Function & Style
Plumbing Placement Strategy
Keep your wet areas close together. Every foot of distance costs you hundreds in plumbing.
I always try to place tubs and showers on the same wall or adjacent walls.
Visual Tricks That Work
Use large-format tiles. Fewer grout lines make your bathroom look bigger.
Install floating vanities. You’ll see more floor space underneath.
Choose light colors for small spaces. Dark colors work great in large bathrooms.
Storage Solutions
Built-in niches in shower walls keep bottles organized.
Tub deck storage works if you have an alcove installation.
Wall-mounted cabinets don’t take up floor space.
Lighting Layers
You need three types:
- General lighting – ceiling fixtures
- Task lighting – vanity lights
- Accent lighting – under-cabinet or toe-kick LEDs
Pro tip: Install dimmer switches everywhere.
Ventilation Matters
Calculate fan size properly: 1 CFM per square foot minimum.
For bathrooms over 100 square feet, go with 50 CFM per fixture (tub, shower, toilet).
Timer switches prevent humidity buildup when you forget to turn off the fan.
Real-Life Examples & Floor Plan Inspirations
Small Bathroom Success Story (65 sq ft)
The challenge: Fit tub, shower, toilet, and vanity in a 5×13 foot space.
The solution: T-shaped layout with corner tub.
- 48-inch corner soaking tub at far end
- 36×48 inch shower on side wall
- Wall-hung toilet saves 12 inches
- 30-inch floating vanity
Result: Everything fits with room to move around.
Master Suite Makeover (120 sq ft)
The goal: Spa-like retreat with separate tub and shower.
The layout: Split zone design.
- 6-foot freestanding tub by window
- 4×6 foot walk-in shower with bench
- Double vanity with quartz countertops
- Private toilet room
Special touch: Heated floors throughout.
Family Bathroom Renovation (85 sq ft)
The need: Function for kids and adults.
The approach: Side-by-side layout with smart storage.
- Standard 60-inch alcove tub for kids
- 3×5 foot tiled shower for adults
- Built-in storage between tub and shower
- Comfort-height toilet
Kid-friendly features:
- Slip-resistant tub surface
- Handheld shower head in tub
- Step stool storage in vanity
Final Thoughts
You now have 7 proven bathroom layouts with tub and shower combinations. Each one works in real homes.
Here’s your next step: Measure your bathroom. Then pick the layout that fits your space and family needs.
Remember these key points:
- Keep plumbing close together to save money
- Consider who uses the bathroom daily
- Don’t skip proper ventilation
- Hire professionals for major changes
Start with your must-haves first. Then add the nice-to-have features. I’ve seen too many homeowners rush into renovations. Take time to plan properly. Your future self will thank you.
Ready to change your bathroom? Use these layouts as your blueprint. You’ve got this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a walk-in shower and soaking tub in a 60 square foot bathroom?
No, you’ll need at least 75-80 square feet for both to work comfortably. Consider a modernized tub-shower combo instead for maximum space efficiency.
Which layout works best for families with young children and teenagers?
The side-by-side layout gives you the most flexibility for different age groups. Kids can use the tub while teens prefer the separate shower space.
Do corner tubs actually save space or just look smaller?
Corner tubs save about 15-20% of floor space compared to standard rectangular tubs. They’re perfect for L-shaped bathrooms but require careful planning for access.
Should I match my tub and shower materials or mix different finishes?
Matching materials create a cohesive look, while mixing adds visual interest. Choose based on your overall design style and budget constraints.
How do I prevent water from splashing between separate tub and shower areas?
Install proper splash guards and ensure adequate spacing between fixtures. A minimum 18-inch gap with strategic tile placement prevents most water issues.
