I have no clue about what you mean by useable space . Soakers are IMO the best use of tub space and IMO a 54” tub none soaker is a complete waste of space . Do a shower and forget the tub or look at Japanese tubs

Yes I have been deciding between those exact two tubs. I’m going to get the Kona because the Aqua Eden only has 37” of flat tub space before it inclines In the back whereas the Kona maximizes usable space (essentially 49”!) by not having an incline in the back. It seems in the Kona tall people can actually sit down without bending their legs. The Aqua Eden looks wonderful for a very, very deep soaking tub. I was worried my kids would have trouble getting in and out of such a High tub but seems great for adults! Thanks So much!

@Patricia Colwell Consulting you are right that soaking tub options are the way to go. I didn’t see many 54” tub options that weren’t labeled “soaking”. I would have done a regular shower instead, but a tub is great for resale value and this was the best place to put one In my house. This tub will largely be used as a shower as my kids get older.

also, what I meant by usable space is the dimension of the inner basin/bottom of the tub. My tall husband can at least sit in the Kona tub without bending his legs. I am thinking for the rare times this tub is used for a bath by an adult, we can get some waterproof cushions to lean against.

I am a habitual bath taker, you will be very uncomfortable in a straight sided box for a tub. Try this, sit on the floor straight up, with your legs flat, not comfortable for more than a few minutes. I guess if it’s a wash and get out kinda tub, it would serve that purpose. Something about warm water, it makes you want to lean back in it.

From Build.com

@cindylou62 you are so right. I realized it was difficult to get a Kona tub delivered to me anyway and I think it was a sign. Pretty sure the Aker tub is ideal. It’s deep but not too deep to step over easily and has an inclined back that still leaves room for a 40” bathing well.

Really appreciate your thoughts!

A 54” junk quality tub is for temporary tiny kid bathing. Adults won’t fit. Beyond toddler stage, it is much better to have a shower. A54” tub is a resale drawback. Not a plus.

@User the real estate people I’ve spoken with in my area about shower vs. tub have told me that, because my neighborhood is full of and sought after by young families, having a tub is essential. And my own kids still benefit from a tub. I live in an urban area where people have a reduced expectation of space and luxury when it comes to bathrooms so a smaller tub is not out of the norm. I have seen plenty of reviews for 54” tubs where adults have been fine using them. Certainly not ideal, but it works for tight spaces and I’m glad they exist!

Runnermon. How do you like the Aker tub? I am trying to decide on a 54" tub. Thanks