We're doing the Maax Ella Sleek which is south of $2k. Ferguson guy said he's seen builders put these in $1m homes with a $1500 fixture! It's acrylic but doesn't look it. one good thing about it is that you can deck mount through the back interior of the tub to the floor, hiding the plumbing. (As opposed to the extra cost of freestanding plumbing outside of the tub). I know there are more technical plumbing terms for all of this but anyways, that's the direction we're going in.

Thanks so much for the suggestions and advice. I am concerned about being able to get the tub close enough for a faucet reach but far away enough to clean. Unfortunately, a floor mount is not ideal since we're on a concrete slab. A wall mount would be a much easier install. It would be on a wall backing up to the master closet, so I think we could also have a panel to access the plumbing. I really like the Newport brass fixture, although it's a bit more modern than fixtures we've used in the other bathrooms. I would like to use a readily available brand name so parts are replaceable.

I love freestanding tubs. They are indeed, quite sculptural. I love baths and I like them to be in a pretty environment; it is not about what is practical. I have two in my primary home and two here at our beachhouse. The beachhouse ones are vintage clawfoot, painted aqua, and the ones at our main house are pedestal; one painted silver and one is white. I also love the gorgeous hardware that goes with them! My MBA here and in my main house have wooden floors. I have had one from about 5 yrs and one for 2 yrs. TBH I don't do the housecleaning. But I don't see it as a big issue. I did stay recently in an adorable AirBnB cottage where the tub was shoehorned it and it was obviously an issue keeping it clean under the tub; also the floor was painted in checkerboard but they couldn't get all the way under the tub. I have those pretty brass and nickel trays that fit across the tub for a sponge, soaps, etc. I also like to read a book in the tub; for that I pull up a vanity stool next to the tub. To me, tubs are for special occasions. For practicality, you use the shower. I have been known to lounge in the tub and then shower off in the shower! ETA - it may sound silly, but one should always try a tub before you buy it (I mean sit in it). The length and depth and angle can really vary your experience. BTW, too long is not good (and I am 5'9) .. at some point you feel you are floating.

Thank you! Anglo, I totally agree. We've actually been updating and remodeling the entire house, inside and out, top to bottom, for over the last 10 years. It's taken that long, given the huge amount of DIY and $$ we've put into improving our home. We literally (not figuratively, lol) have our own blood, sweat, and tears invested in these walls! Unfortunately, we saved the master bedroom and bathroom for last! Oh well, at least I'll be able to enjoy it until we move into our next fixer upper :)