We are going with a freestanding in our new master bath both because we like the looks and also with our layout it worked better. Given the cost of a good tiling job I'm not sure a built-in would have been less expensive than a standalone. We had 2 drop-in tubs (one to be removed with shower stall) and one of them still in-- acrylic-- which we put in 12 years ago and somewhat regret now because it flexes and the grout cracked over time so it has needed a lot of maintenance. (this is mostly because of the material we chose). But when our kids were younger they loved the bubbles!

The WetStyle f/s tub has a removable tray that sits across the tub. I like numberjunkie's idea of a shelf or ledge behind the tub for placing items and also like the idea of having the shower wall next to the tub tiled half-way up to have a space for installing a grab bar. WetStyle has an optional shelf that surrounds the tub, but I think it would make it more challenging to get in and out of the tub - would need to hop over the shelf. The drop-in tub I was initially considering was 72"x42" but that would likely not fit, so would need to be 72"x36". This weekend I looked at an open house (new construction) in my area that had a drop-in tub with a narrow space for the deck surround (see attached photo). The deck was tiled on the top and on the apron with white subway tile. I noticed that with the narrow deck space (about 2") and the tub overhang, it would be awkward to sit on the edge of the tub and swing my legs in or out of the tub. Wiithout space for a deck that is wide enough to comfortably sit on, ease of entry or exit may come down to depth of the tub and options for placement of grab bars. The Wetstyle tub is 22" deep; the drop-in tubs are generally deeper, more like 26"

thank you, all! that's a great point to be considered, writersblock. We will definitely be trying in person, but when I went looking and trying yesterday with our designer (not DH b/c he was at work), everything I sat in was just long enough for me to stretch out and be comfortable but i was thinking that's not terribly fair to DH. however, the reminder of needing to brace in order to be comfortable is a very important one! I'll have to go back with an eye toward depth. Trying out is a must, but wanted to see if there were brands I should be seeking out for length. Now I guess I'll ask if there are brands I should be seeking out for depth!

Not a fan of that light fixture. Would not want to look at/into the light but rather have the fixture provide light for the room. If you want an interesting ceiling hung light, consider this LED one: https://www.beautifulhalo.com/6led-leaf-design-semi-flush-light-nordic-style-acrylic-ceiling-flush-mount-in-warmwhiteneutral-p-326243.html?currency1=USD&track=PA_G_SUS325&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI1IbvvfjH5QIVVdyGCh0DNgObEAQYASABEgI74fD_BwE You might consider a faux window light -- perhaps even a stained glass one: http://diphotoshop.com/3-tips-for-highlighting-the-exterior-architecture-of-your-home/ http://nanobolt.co/fake-window-light-box/ Or a fake window skylight light: The local hospital has one but I couldn't find a pic on line that would load. Are you aware that there are light fixtures made specifically for corners? I like this one best: http://kapemvun.info/foliage-not-flowers/ but there are others worth considering, too. http://kapemvun.info/easy-fix-for-fall-flowers-to-get-up-your-garden-2/ http://kapemvun.info/10-no-fail-drought-tolerant-perennials-for-low-water-gardens/