That is a definite disadvantage of a free standing tub. Put a garden stool or small table next to the tub to hold supplies and then put everything away when not in use.

would you have a photo of the space you intend to put the free standing tub?

It's on paper...new build. The glass shower stall is right beside the tub. Model home shows a dropin tub with tile surround.
Here's the tub:kohler free standing bathtub

It's probably wiser to go undermount with tile surround. The freestanding just looked so cool and was super comfortable. My daughter just suggested building a niche or inset in the drywallat the end of the tub, just an inset with a piece of the shower tile on the bottom to catch messes. What do you think? Thank you for the discussion. Very helpful. Still have time to change my mind.

Waterworks makes high quality etagere, 14" x 14" x 26". They also make side table 17" x 11" x 19-1/4"h.
These items are found in their Easton Collection ... And actually are on sale June 2nd through June7th 2014 in their Los Angeles showroom. 310-289-5211

I'm in Canada but this looks nice. Maybe it's here too! Thanks.

This has always been my bugbear. There are two solutionsThe wooden or metallic tray placed across the bath or,If it is placed against a wall (rather than true freestanding) you can always build a ledge/niche https://www.houzz.com/photos/classic-contemporary-residence-contemporary-bathroom-new-york-phvw-vp~1187796

hi hellen54, I have always had an issue with cleaning in those hard to reach corners. Maybe you can re-think the design if it's not too late? Otherwise you can have your pro design a closed in waterproof shelf unit that exactly fits butted to tub in the corners. It looks so pretty, but unless you are size 0, save yourself the agony of getting behind there to clean later!

I just purchased a small wooden stool to use as a tub shelf next to our free standing tub. You also can't perch on the edge of the tub to trim your toenails, so the stool is doubly useful.