I'm no bathtub expert, but a quick search on houzz for the size and shape you want results in ~150 options, including

https://www.houzz.com/products/sequana-pure-acrylic-71-all-in-one-oval-freestanding-tub-kit-prvw-vr~28865416

https://www.houzz.com/products/soho-soaking-bathtub-with-chrome-drain-72-prvw-vr~22475119

Thanks Kariyava, I did the same and you're totally right! I should have better explained -- I don't understand the difference between these $500-$1500 tubs and the ones from our designer above. It seems the acrylic ones are cheaper but I don't know why. Is it just because they dont retain heat as well?

My understanding is that you do not want to buy an acrylic tub. The composite materials from places like V&A are much pricier than acrylic and acrylic does not wear well.

I like this Toto cast iron tub, though it is not as modern and sculptural as the ones you show. It is a quality material with a nice style to it for me.

Good luck on your search.

https://www.supply.com/toto-nexus-soaking-bathtub-fbf794s-01dcp-cotton-polished-chrome/p131395

Have you considered Signature Hardware? They might have solid surface, free standing tubs for less than V&A for example.

It’s the difference in cheepchinesecrapola and cheepchinesecrapola with a designer name and higher price. The only good tubs are going to at least be American company produced, even if they are produced in their personally owned Chinese factories.

The really really cheap ones are lowball bidder with zero quality control or accountability Chinese factories. They could contain anything. And have.

Kohler. American Standard. Duravit. Not V&A. It’s a fancified private label product that is basically Corian but with a cheaper filler than aluminum trihydrate.

Hi all, thanks this is helpful.

Sophie, what do you mean the really really cheap ones could contain anything?

And what do you think of the third tub on my original list -- Hydrosystems seems like it's made in California?

http://www.plumbingoverstock.com/hydro-systems-maestro-collection-mpi6636ato-picasso-66-x-36-tub-only.html?

These options may not be what you are looking for or may be too much on the "cheap" side but Costco carries a variety of freestanding tubs: https://www.costco.com/bathtubs.html. We have the Ove Noah and I really like it. The acrylic looks and feels nice and cleans so easily.

Make sure you and your husband sit in several of these in a showroom. They can be difficult to get in and climb out of, due to the oval shape with high sides. Keep in mind the slippery when wet factor. You don’t want to end up with a very expensive floor ornament you don’t use cause it’s a pain to get in and out of.

Also, the freestanding plumbing pipes coming out of the floor is one more thing to clean around.

I like a drop-in tub that is undermounted to sit within a built-up deck structure. Easier to climb in and out of. And, I like me a glass of wine and candles with a hot bath on a winter night, and the deck provides a place for them. If you want it to be a high-end installation, have the deck and surround be marble.