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dalcolli

Kohler Underscore not good enough for master bath?

4 years ago

We are finally building and it is time to pick out plumbing. I sent the Kohler Underscore 60"x30" tub to the builder and the plumbing person said it is "something we would typically put in a hallway or basement bathroom". Maybe it is just the size but it seemed to imply it wasn't nice enough which seems really weird to me. It has been a couple years since I researched tubs and picked out the Kohler after trying it out in Ferguson's but I'm pretty sure it is the right one. Now, that comment is giving me doubts. I cannot find any places that have the Underscore in their showroom anymore. I'm 5'9 and focused on good soaking depth. Maybe I just need to go to the 66" but is there any other reason the Kohler Underscore is not good enough for a master bath?

Comments (14)

  • 4 years ago
    last modified: 4 years ago

    It's usually used as an alcove tub in secondary bathrooms. Are you getting the drop in that would then have a tile surround? Have you considered a freestanding tub?

  • 4 years ago

    Yes, planning a drop-in with tile surround. The Underscore seemed a popular choice here for master baths. I started out wanting freestanding for looks really but I am a serious bath taker and want good soaking depth and do not want to clean around a freestanding. Function over looks decision for me. What makes this more for secondary baths?

  • 4 years ago

    I'm also a serious bath taker and went with the Americh "Madison". It's deep and is even long enough so I can straighten out my legs while soaking in it.

  • 4 years ago

    Are you getting the drop-in or undermount version of this tub? The alcove version is what is used in secondary bathrooms. But IMO, if you like it and it is the right size for you then there is nothing wrong with it.

  • 4 years ago

    I don't understand the distinction between master and secondary baths (except secondary baths tend to be used by kids who use tubs more AND are harder on things so more quality is perhaps desired).


    I think it's a good-looking tub but I prefer a tub in an alcove anyway.

  • 4 years ago

    There was a discussion here on Houz comparing the Underscore and the Archer. People weighed in on the pros and cons…height of the side, width of the bottom, angle of the back, exterior and interior embellishments, etc. Take a look. I say…if you have had an opportunity to sit in the tub, like the height, width, angle, etc. GET IT. Who cares what others say?

  • 4 years ago

    @kandrewspa Drop-in but I may have mistakenly pinned a photo of the alcove version so maybe it was just a mistake on my part.


    @ptreckel I'm afraid my memory is failing me and I grabbed the wrong version/size and that's my real concern. Search failed me but I think I remember that thread too and will look again. Thanks!


    @jewelisfabulous Thanks for the rec

  • 4 years ago

    Yes! Thanks for posting the thread, @adawn5!

  • 4 years ago
    last modified: 4 years ago

    I wouldn't worry too much about it. Seems like a nice tub! So much more distinguishes a master bathroom - size, finishes, etc. - I have never noticed what kind of tub was there unless it was a really eye-catching free-standing one. (or god-forbid a gross old jacuzzi one)

  • 4 years ago

    I have used both the Archer alcove and Underscore and vastly prefer the Underscore for actual bathing. However, you should take a peek at the spec sheets and look at the lumbar angle on the various models that will fit in your space. The alcove units usually have a steeper lumbar angle like 15* where the undermount or even drop ins are more like 33*-40* which makes for a much more comfortable soak. Happy shopping!

  • PRO
    4 years ago

    Everyone's idea of what constitutes a master bath is different. If you have the room to have a big fancy tub and huge shower, etc etc then you want the tub area to feel more luxurious ( a deck mounted tub will look great with the right surroundings ) .

    Many homes in my area have an en suite. It is barely a shower a toilet and maybe a pedestal sink. But that can still be luxurious.

    You love to take a bath - the function of that tub will far out weigh any aesthetics, especially since it is a drop in tub! Choose awesome tile and paint colors, lay back and enjoy it!

    The best thing to do is to sit on the floor and have some measure you from your back to your toes and then from the floor to your armpits. That will give you a sense of how much length you need in the bathing well and water depth ( NOT apron height - it will say in the description what the water height is ) .

    Here is the spec for the Underscore


    Compare it to the tub you have now.

    If you can go to a 66" that might be nicer. Also don't forget to factor in armrests - yes or no?

    Good luck!

    dalcolli thanked Debbi Washburn
  • 4 years ago

    Difficult to advise you without seeing the layout of your bathroom or the general style of the house.