2021 update: Back in 2016, Aker offered a number of tubs and shower bases in retro colors. Alas, checking for this update I see that their color palette is now narrower; I called the company and they confirm the colors available are the ones shown on each page — there are no special order colors above and beyond these.
That said, I see you can still get tubs (and alcove shower products, check their site) in two shades of gray, two off-whites, and black (and white, of course.). These are not always easy to find in tubs made today. Read the Aker page for yourself to learn what materials are used to make these products.
Where to find these: Aker — a manufacturer of bathtubs, shower walls, and more
Thanks to Lynne and Bob for leading me to this manufacturer!
Need to repair pitting on my Dresden Blue
Fiberglass tub insert
Hi Miriam, on questions like this it’s recommended to contact the manufacturer. Good luck.
There was a color back in the day that was extremely popular. It was a cross between beige and pink. I always called it “flesh.” I think the peach bisque is the closest to that.
It’s unfortunate that the few manufacturers still making colored plumbing fixtures barely publicize that fact. We need to make these companies aware that there *is* a market for them beyond the occasional old house owner that needs to replace a broken fixture and wants it to match what’s already there.
Looking through the Aker website, it seems this company generally markets their wares to the trade – plumbers and remodelers – rather than directly to consumers (although they’ll happily sell to anyone). They custom-build the nonstandard colors which is why they can offer such a wide variety of colors in a wide variety of products (I WANT this 6′ long “innocent blush” tub/shower module! http://www.akerbymaax.com/en/products/tubshowers/alcove/sbw3672 ; Or maybe this deep, wide tub: http://www.akerbymaax.com/en/products/bathtubs/rectangular/gt4860 ). I also note that none of their retailers are anywhere near the left coast. Also that they are owned by MAAX – a really big company. There’s hope.
Oh, now THIS is uncanny! My husband and I were just talking about sourcing colored shower pans only last night!
On a slightly unrelated note, you wouldn’t by any chance know of a period correct (to the 70’s, that is) low-boy toilet? I love the look of the old Kohler Pompton and Rochelle models, but as we’ll be building a house from scratch I suspect building codes will require a modern, ultra-low-flush design. So no salvage unfortunately…
The closest one I can find manufactured nowadays is the Kohler Rialto. (I’ve dated that back to 1984, but I’d like to know if it was around any earlier.)
I’m going to check American Standard and other brands next. Otherwise it’ll be from Peerless in Harvest Gold.
Rialto is discontinued. San Raphael is similar, but more expensive.
Oh dear, you’re right. I don’t know what page I was looking at that had Rialto listed!
Hmmm. The search continues…!
Modern technology meets Mid Mod flair. Love it!
My standard 60″ Aker tub DOES have the overflow. Its nicely covered so you don’t look into a gaping black hole. What I like about it is that it has a raised pebby lumpy bottom. Not the hard to clean sandpaper type shapes. If that makes any sense.
As for the colors, ask your plumber. He took care of ordering my tub and installing it, and I’m wondering if they have color sheets or have access to samples through the trade.
PS You’re welcome Pam!
Lynne, that’s the answer to my question. All my previous tubs had it under the flipper for the drain plug which you can’t see until you’re seated.
My fiberglass tub for mobile homes doesn’t have one – yikes! the first time I filled and then got in. Or should I say Eureka!
Nearly every tub I’ve seen made in the last 60 years has standardized round openings for both the drain and the overflow. You can fill them with all sorts of styles – lever-operated, tap drain to open/close, a strainer, a rubber drain plug on a chain, etc., which are made by many manufacturers.
Oh, my! This is a godsend to those in older 2-story homes who really wanted to install a second bathroom with tub upstairs but were concerned about the combined weight of the tub, water, and bather.
Question – do the tubs have that overflow/overfill hole thingie under the faucet? I can’t see by the photo.
Hi Carolyn, I’m not sure re your question. I called Customer Service at Aker to get help with this story, and they were very helpful. I’m sure they could tell you.