If you’ve ever dreamed of soaking under the open sky, surrounded by nature and the comforts of home, this outdoor tub project is for you. We took a simple backyard space and transformed it into a serene, spa-like retreat — complete with a freestanding soaking tub, custom privacy walls, and bold, patterned concrete flooring. The result? A stunning backyard feature that’s as functional as it is beautiful.

Why Build an Outdoor Tub?

An outdoor tub brings a unique blend of luxury and relaxation to your home. Whether you want a romantic escape, a place to unwind after a long day, or a stylish feature for entertaining guests, an outdoor bath area creates an experience that feels straight out of a boutique resort — without ever leaving your property.

Plus, adding an outdoor soaking area can boost your home’s value and appeal. Many buyers love the idea of an elevated backyard space that offers both beauty and functionality.

Step 1: Planning the Space

We started with a bare backyard area and envisioned a design that balanced style, privacy, and durability. The location we chose offered:

Sunlight and shade for comfort in all seasons.
Proximity to water access for filling and draining the tub.
Privacy potential with fencing and custom slatted walls.

Step 2: Building the Foundation

A solid foundation was key for stability and longevity. We poured a concrete pad — not only to support the tub but also to give us a canvas for a bold flooring design.

Instead of leaving the concrete plain, we used a geometric stencil pattern in black and white for a high-impact, modern-bohemian look. This design ties in perfectly with our outdoor aesthetic while being durable enough to handle the elements.

Step 3: Creating Privacy & Style with Slatted Walls

To make the space feel intimate without closing it off from nature, we built slatted cedar privacy walls on three sides. The warm wood tones contrast beautifully with the black accent wall, giving the entire structure a high-end, designer feel.

These walls also allow airflow and filtered sunlight to pass through — creating a relaxing, airy atmosphere.

Step 4: Elevating the Tub

We built a wooden platform to elevate the tub slightly above the patterned floor. This creates a focal point and makes the soaking area feel even more luxurious. The rich wood stain adds warmth and ties in with the slatted walls for a cohesive look.

Step 5: The Final Touches

Once the structure was complete, it was all about creating the right vibe:

String lights for nighttime ambiance.
Greenery in modern planters to soften the space and bring life to the design.
A textured outdoor rug to add comfort underfoot.
Decorative shelving on the back wall for candles, drinks, and spa essentials.

Outdoor soaking tub