For me it would be the 60 inch drop in with the deck on all four sides. I prefer the finished look.

hi sg, we're going through the same reno replacing an old, huge corner whirlpool. We opted for a 72" x 42" drop in whirlpool, angled into the alcove and framed as yaya suggests on all four sides. I like the straight design better than the corner tubs that include the seat or open well and wanted the longer leg length. We'll have deck mounted faucets off to the front far side. I wasn't sure that a tub that large would work until I asked for a template, so you may want to get one for your dream tub before deciding on the brand and/or size. I also wanted a very comfortable tub and wanted to keep the center drain so my options may have been a bit more limited than yours.

I'd interview a few other plumbers before deciding as I'm not sure why he is less confident about a drop in. True, the drop in will need proper underlayment, but once done according to the mfg's specifications should not pose undue problems. Ask bill v or other gurus in the bathroom forum, if you haven't already done so.

If you decide to go with the open front, maybe it could work as a design if you plan decorative tile outlining the entire tub and maybe bring the design across the front on the floor. I don't know if the Kohler Archer corners are hard angles that would fit flush with framing or whether you'd have to have the front project a bit from the framed tile, but that would be another design concern. I suppose you could also recess the freestanding with the frame, but having the open front would not be my first choice unless other plumbers think the first one has a valid concern in your situation.

The main question is, are you a tub person who enjoys long soaks? If so, then get the larger tub.

The faucet doesn't have to stay where it is so why not deck mount it along the front (long-side) of the tub and center the tub along the wall.

Regarding the plumber......interview more plumbers. The first guy has stated he prefers free standing tubs so that tells me he probably doesn't have much experience with built-in's. Also, make sure your carpenter is aware of how the plumbing is going to run within the framing.

Yayagal, thanks for your input...that's good to know. I'm thinking that the four sides tiled around would look more finished and "intentional" too. The more I imagine the other design, the more chopped up it feels to me. Won't it look like I was trying to make something fit that didn't? Not the most polished, professional result!

Abundantblessings, good to see you! (Did you ever get my e-mail?) Yes, I'm not sure why he indicated that a drop-in would be more difficult. Something about it not being secured into the mud well? Otherwise, I was impressed with this fellow. He seems capable & very nice. Talked to two other plumbers who didn't seem very nice, frankly, but that's another story! I haven't gotten his pricing yet, so need to see what he's charging for his services before I proceed with him anyway. Thanks for your feedback...it helps! Good luck with your project!

Hi Ann! Thanks for your reply. I am a bath taker, not a shower taker. Have never once ever used the existing tub in the 5 yrs. we've lived here. Dh & I both use the guest bath. I am petite (5 ft. 1") & don't need a lot of room in a tub. Dh is not so tall either.

We may be putting the house on the market in a few years, so am trying to make choices that will appeal to others. That's tricky, as we all know we can't please every potential buyer out there.

In addition to changing the tub, I'm pulling out the plastic stall shower across the room & tiling that, so there will be a place for showering, though I am not a shower taker, as I said before. I realize a decent shower is a must, as most people prefer showers.

No, so sorry I didn't get your email. Please try again and I'll respond so you'll know I got it. I know GW was having email issues last month or so.

I had forgotten you're petite, though do consider your potential buyers won't necessarily be. Like you, I wouldn't use the existing whirlpool in our last two homes. The older plumbing allowed too much yuck. New designs are much, much better. I can let you know about our tub in case that may work for you. We have already replaced and expanded a similar plastic shower. If you can put in a frameless door it will really enhance the resale value. I will love our bath, if I can ever get our guy to install the tub. Totally different than the cheapo we found here.

Yes, your guy is right about the potential for flex if not properly secured. But then my response is what prevents him from doing so?!! There's are several tutorials about this issue that you can research before talking with him again.