However, even a cursory look through any catalogue is sure to throw such conceptions out of the window.

Baths are now designer objects, an investment that allows you to demonstrate your taste and individuality, flaunt your financial status, or express your ergonomic expertise.

Take for example the widespread idea that baths need taps incorporated into the fixture.

There are now many floor-standing taps on the market that ideally complement freestanding tubs. This allows the actual bath to stand as an object in its own right while providing a practical advantage in keeping it clean.

A double-ended bath looks ultra-stylish with taps mounted in the middle, or why not position a floor-mounted tap off-centre?

Or choose a water supply that lets water in through the overflow or from a wall-mounted mixer?

And if you really want to impress, then a hydrotherapeutic whirlpool can be incorporated into your tub. Even aromatherapy is being included into the bathing experience.

For a fresh look, modern freestanding baths can be clad in a host of surfaces: copper, wood, leather or even faux leopard skin. While it is true that these will increase the price of the average bath, it may not be as much as you think. Take your time. Search around. You never know – customising your bath to your own exacting standards may well prove worth every penny you spend.

When designing your bathroom, allow for spatial considerations with regards to your bath. There are dozens of rectangular or corner baths on the market that fix neatly onto a walled area, and are designed to have panelled or tiled fronts. These come, of course, in various standard sizes although one can also have them custom made – an expensive option.

A shower bath is another space-saving alternative because it combines the two without requiring a separate shower recess. There are also lovely traditional baths, which are free standing, and lend a past era feel to the room. They have rough, cast-iron exteriors and smooth enamel or acrylic interiors. At first cold to the touch due to the metal, they are actually good insulators when filled with hot water. Speaking of free standing, one can also buy acrylic baths that are free standing and these are moulded on the inside with durable, lightweight acrylic that is scratch-resistant. Free standing baths usually have stylish “feet” and roll-top edges.

Another great bath idea is a spa-bath, also known as a Jacuzzi, or a whirlpool bath. Once viewed as a luxury, some in our stressful world now view a spa-bath or a whirlpool bath as a necessity. The spa introduces jets of air bubbles to the bath while a whirlpool pumps both air and water through the powerful jets. Either one is a great addition to your bathroom.