No so long ago, home spa baths were all the rage - the bigger the better. The sight of a huge, deep, luxurious tub might have a certain come-hither appeal but, really, who has the time for the ritual that a long, hot soak involves? As many a spa owner has discovered, the bath that takes up most space in the bathroom can actually be the thing that's used the least. They're also difficult to clean.
But a shower: now there's an indulgence that can be equally romantic and indulgent, yet far more practical.
Designer Monique McLintock is increasingly asked to remove tubs once proudly installed. The trend, she says, is showers built for two.
'It's more sensual to take a shower together than a long soak, because it is sexy to have raindrops fall on your body,' she says.
McLintock, of Monique McLintock Interiors, says busy couples may need to get dressed and ready at the same time.
'So in some instances, the his and hers shower is preferred for practical reasons. Having a bathroom that works for your lifestyle is much more important than being bound by the outdated thinking of keeping a bathtub in the master bedroom.'