Cleaning behind and under a free standing tub sounds like an ordeal to me.

you could just enclose that pipe (with an access panel somewhere) and have the tub right next to it (imagine it behind this beadboard)

I like something like this better. you could exted the wood decking portion to conceal the pipe

Like this. imagine the tile wall portion to the left is concealing the pipe. you could take it up, or make it like a bench or shelf for plants

I like the tile up the wall on the back because it's easier to keep clean

if you take it up to hide the pipe, see if you could do some insert cubbies

or maybe do a half wall to conceal the pipe

Iles I agree. But that does not stop me from wanting one lol.

Beth, many thanks for pic, you sure do have right touch!

t seems it will work either way whether frestanding or drop in tub. My tile is darker one and pic looks gorgeous! Built in cubbies is great idea, I do plan on heated towel rack on opposite side, might look too clustered?