Inflatable shower bathtub compresses into wall

A trio of designers from China conceptualized a space-saving bathtub that inflates and then compresses into a bathroom’s wall when not in use.

The innovative tub, winner of the Red Dot Design award in 2015, integrates a shower panel on one end that is attached to the wall. It can switch from shower to bathtub mode and vice versa on just a press of a button.

This concept is useful in homes with small bathrooms, including condominium units. With real estate prices spiraling, developers are looking to construct vertically and be wise on space.

Collapsible and mini bathtubs are increasing in supply and becoming trendier. Other new models can even be brought along when travelling and fit a big suitcase. This shows that bathroom fixture makers are adapting well to the trend of smaller homes and the need to maximize living spaces.