I think you already did, but if not, try posting your question on the discussions side of this forum. This is the gallery for pictures of finished baths. You'll get better response there.

You also need to take into account the cost of the faucet. A lot of freestanding tubs reguire a floor mounted faucet, and they are very pricey. But I'm like you - love my baths and love the look of a freestanding, so I will try to get one that allows the faucet to be deck mounted and hopefully the savings from eliminating the tub decking/surround will make it cost effective.

I'm getting ready to purchase an Aquatica Purescape tub. They have plenty of styles. aquaticausa.com/

I agree getting in and out of a free standing tub is trully a PITA and if you did not bath before you won't now either. As for the tile sorry but honestly no matter what you choose it will always look like an add on. I agree to either leave the tub or prepare to do the whole floor . If you post a plan of the space done to scale maybe some ideas will pop up.