How to Create an Outdoor Bathtub on a Budget

An outdoor bathtub is a great way to get into the spirit of the season and to add some lush greenery to your garden design ideas. It also provides a different experience to a spa, offering tranquility and the ability to soak amongst your favorite plants, or even under the stars. And while you may think it's a luxury only the rich and famous can afford, the truth is that you can achieve a similar look on a budget with just a little ingenuity.

When it comes to outdoor soaking tubs, the most important consideration is of course water supply and temperature. Unless you have an in-ground pool, the water needs to be heated and brought over from your home via a hose. In some cases, you can hire a plumber to run underground pipes all the way to your new tub, but this will be costly and isn't suitable for every home.

To solve the problem, homeowners have a few options:

Many people opt for an outdoor bath that's filled with warm or hot water when they want to relax. This means that you can have a soothing soak and still keep the cost down by only heating the water you're using at the time. It's worth noting, however, that outdoor bathtubs tend to lose heat rapidly, so they may need to be covered and insulated when it's not in use.

Some homeowners prefer to create a more traditional feel to their garden by installing a tub in a raised platform. This makes the most of views, and it can also be a useful way to keep the space feeling private. It's also ideal for people who don't have the space for a full-size garden tub, but who want to add some relaxation to their landscape design.

A stone garden wall is an elegant backdrop for a freestanding bathtub, especially when it's finished with a textural blend of natural materials. In this example, a mix of slate-hued tiles and textured sandstone lends a sophisticated vibe to the space. Planting the surrounding area with ferns can further enhance the relaxing vibe of the nook.

Another idea is to make your tub a feature of the garden by positioning it in an open corner with a backdrop of tall shrubs and climbing plants. This offers both privacy and a sense of drama, and it can be complemented by an array of fragrant flowers, such as these purple blooms that frame this bohemian tub.

Alternatively, you can go for a sleek modern look with an outdoor tub that's built into a deck. This creates a more contained environment and helps protect the tub from weather, but it can work well for any type of garden design. A stripe of white pebbles can help to add a sense of clean line to the scheme, while a few simple plants can provide an eye-catching contrast. This video shows how to build an outdoor soaking tub with a galvanized stock tank and wood-fired heating system.