One of the most fiercely debated topics during a primary bathroom remodel is whether to keep a bathtub or replace it entirely with a massive walk-in shower. For decades, a luxury home in Bellevue wasn't considered complete without a massive soaking tub. But in 2026, lifestyle preferences have shifted dramatically.
The vast majority of Bellevue homeowners are abandoning traditional bathtubs in favor of expansive, spa-like walk-in showers. However, for resale value, real estate experts recommend keeping at least one bathtub in the house (usually in a guest or hall bath) for families with small children.
The Case for the Walk-In Shower
Walk-in showers are the undeniable focal point of modern luxury bathrooms. Homeowners are reclaiming the square footage previously wasted by massive 1990s jacuzzi tubs to create daily spa experiences.
- Daily Utility: Most adults shower every day but take a bath maybe three times a year. A large shower is highly functional.
- Accessibility: Walk-in showers (especially curbless designs) allow for easy entry, making them ideal for "aging in place" and preventing slip-and-fall accidents.
- Luxury Features: A large walk-in shower can accommodate dual showerheads, rain cans, steam generators, and built-in bench seating.
- Visual Space: Frameless glass enclosures make the entire bathroom feel significantly larger and brighter.
The Case for the Bathtub
While massive drop-in platform tubs are out of style, the elegant, sculptural freestanding soaking tub has seen a massive resurgence in high-end Bellevue homes—provided the bathroom is large enough to comfortably fit both a tub and a shower.
- Resale to Families: If your home is in a highly-rated school district like Bellevue School District or Issaquah School District, your target buyers will likely be young families. A bathtub is essential for bathing toddlers.
- Deep Relaxation: For athletes or those who use bathing for muscle recovery and stress relief, nothing replaces a deep soaking tub.
- Architectural Statement: A beautiful freestanding tub placed under a large window or chandelier acts as a stunning piece of art in the room.
If you have a standard 5x8 guest bathroom with a tub/shower combo, do not replace it with a shower-only unit if it is the only bathtub in the house. Instead, upgrade it to a deep alcove soaking tub with beautiful custom tile walls.
The Ultimate Compromise: The "Wet Room"
If you have the budget and the space, the hottest trend in luxury Bellevue bathroom remodeling is the "Wet Room." This involves waterproofing a massive section of the bathroom behind a single wall of glass. Inside this waterproof zone, you place both the freestanding soaking tub and the dual open showers. It provides the ultimate spa aesthetic while containing all splashing and moisture in one dedicated area.
"Design for how you actually live 364 days a year, not for the one day a year you might decide to take a bubble bath."
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