Freestanding Tubs We have been seeing the freestanding tub gaining in popularity over the last few years and there seems to be every indication that this trend will continue into 2017. For years the master bath tub was front and center in every bathroom design and put on a pedestal—literally. Surrounded by marble or tile and raised up on a platform or deck, the tub and its surroundings grew in importance and size with each passing decade.