Is a separate tub and shower worth the space?

Whether a separate tub and shower is "worth it" depends on how you actually use your bathroom and how much resale value matters to you. For many Ottawa homeowners, the answer is yes — but only if the space genuinely supports it.

The practical reality is that most people shower daily and rarely use a soaker tub. If you're designing a master ensuite and have the square footage, a freestanding tub paired with a walk-in shower creates a spa-like experience that's genuinely enjoyable. But if you're squeezing both into a tight 5x8 bathroom, you'll end up with a cramped shower and a tub that collects dust.

From a resale perspective, real estate agents in Ottawa often recommend keeping at least one tub in the home if you have young children or plan to sell within 5-10 years. Buyers with kids frequently filter out homes with no tub at all. However, in a dedicated master ensuite — especially in higher-end homes — a large walk-in shower can actually be more appealing than a tub-shower combo.

Space requirements matter a lot here. A comfortable walk-in shower needs at least 36"x36", though 42"x48" or larger feels much better. A freestanding tub needs 5-6 feet of length plus clearance on the sides. Realistically, you're looking at a bathroom of at least 80-100 square feet to do both well without feeling cramped.

In terms of Ottawa renovation costs, a custom tile shower runs $5,000–$15,000 and a freestanding tub installation adds another $2,000–$5,000. A well-executed separate tub and shower in a master ensuite can meaningfully increase your home's value, often recouping a solid portion of that investment.

The honest answer: if you have the space and budget, separate fixtures in a master bath are absolutely worth it. If space is tight, a beautifully designed walk-in shower alone is the smarter choice. If you'd like to talk through your specific bathroom layout, Ottawa Bathrooms offers free consultations to help you figure out what works best for your space.