Bath Cabinetry: How Should I Choose a Bathroom Vanity?
As much as we’d like the process to be simple, selecting the right bathroom vanity takes careful consideration and planning. Choosing the ideal bathroom cabinetry is an important step in any bathroom renovation or construction project.
The right bathroom vanity not only enhances the aesthetics of your space but also provides essential storage and functionality. It’s a decision that will have a significant impact on the overall look and functionality of your bathroom, so it’s important to get it right. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to help you find the bathroom cabinetry that perfectly suits your needs and style.
At 10% Cabinetry, we are passionate about helping homeowners achieve their dream kitchens and bathrooms. Whether you prefer classic elegance or modern flair, 10% Cabinetry is the perfect solution to help you transform your home with timeless elegance and high-quality cabinetry.
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Bath Cabinetry: How Should I Choose a Bathroom Vanity?
Choosing a Bathroom Vanity in Simple Steps
Consider Who Will Use It, and How
The first step is to consider who will be using the bathroom vanity and how they will use it. This will guide your decision-making process. For example, if you’re renovating an ensuite for yourself and your partner, both of whom want access to a sink in the morning, a double-sink vanity may be the best option. However, if it is a personal master bathroom, a single vanity may be sufficient.
It is also important to examine how you intend to use the bathroom vanity. If you do a lot of hair and makeup in the bathroom, you’ll need a vanity with enough counter space and storage to hold your grooming supplies. However, if the vanity is solely functional, a more streamlined design might be enough.
Assess Your Space
Before delving into designs and features, it’s critical to assess your bathroom vanity design. Take careful measurements of your available area, including door swings, walkways, and other fittings. Don’t forget to evaluate the vanity’s depth and make sure there’s adequate space for people to walk around in the bathroom.
Don’t forget about the amount of natural light in your bathroom. This can influence your vanity colour selection and whether you need to include additional lighting in your bathroom vanity design.
Assess Your Plumbing Situation
The position of your bathroom’s plumbing will influence where your vanity can be put and which style will function best. Relocating plumbing can be costly and time-consuming, so it’s usually advisable to stay with your current configuration.
Floor-mounted vanities are normally compatible with ordinary plumbing layouts; however, wall-mounted vanities might require relocating the sink’s water supply and drain lines. If you’ve decided on a specific bathroom vanity style, keep in mind the additional cost of plumbing modifications.
Evaluate the Bathroom Layout and Dimensions
The physical limits of your bathroom space will also influence the size and placement of your bathroom vanity. Consider door swings, the location of the shower, and the proximity to the toilet. Walking through the area with a vanity stand-in might help you visualize the flow and identify potential challenges.
Once you’ve determined the best placement, you can begin narrowing down the vanity proportions. Most vanities are 24″ to 60″ wide, 17″ to 24″ deep, and 30″ to 36″ high. Measure your available area carefully to ensure the vanity you choose fits perfectly.
Determine the Ideal Size
Vanity size is crucial for both functionality and visual balance in your bathroom. Here are the common bathroom vanity sizes you can easily find on the market:
Width
Small spaces (18-36 inches): Ideal for powder rooms or narrow bathrooms. These compact vanities can still offer surprising amounts of storage with clever design.
Medium (30-60 inches): Suitable for most standard bathrooms. This range offers flexibility for single or double-sink configurations.
Large (60+ inches): Perfect for spacious master bathrooms or shared spaces. These vanities provide ample storage and counter space for multiple users.
Height
Standard: 32-36 inches
Comfort height: 36-38 inches (better for taller individuals)
Custom heights: Consider the users’ heights and preferences. For families with children, a lower height might be more accessible.
Depth
Standard: 21 inches
Narrow: 16-18 inches (for tight spaces)
Deep: 22-24 inches (for larger bathrooms needing more storage)
Remember that non-standard sizes may require custom countertops and might limit your sink options.
Decide on Your Storage Needs
One of the primary advantages of a vanity is the additional storage it offers. Consider what you’ll need to store in the bathroom, including toiletries, cleaning supplies, towels, and hair products. This will assist you in determining the type and quantity of storage required, whether it be drawers, cabinets, or a combination of the two.
Keep in mind that drawers and cabinet doors require varying amounts of space, so your bathroom’s layout may impact which storage solution works best. Evaluate your storage needs and choose features accordingly and consider:
Drawers: Great for organizing smaller items like makeup, toiletries, and hair accessories. Look for drawers with dividers or customizable organizers.
Cabinet doors: Ideal for larger toiletries and cleaning supplies. Consider adding pull-out shelves or lazy Susans inside cabinets for easier access.
Open shelving: Adds visual interest and easy access. Perfect for displaying decorative items or storing frequently used towels.
Combination: Mix of drawers and cabinets for versatility. This allows you to customize storage for different needs.
Hidden storage: Look for vanities with tip-out trays in false drawer fronts, perfect for small items like toothbrushes.
Tower storage: Some vanity sets come with matching tall cabinets or shelving units for additional storage.
If you have the space, consider adding a hamper or laundry basket area. This can help to keep your bathroom clean and organized.
Select Your Sink Style
The sink is an important component of the bathroom vanity, and there are many different models to choose from, including standard, vessel, under-mount, and all-in-one options. Consider how much counter space you would like to give to the sink, as well as the overall style you’re going for. An under-mount sink, for example, can increase usable counter space, whereas a vessel sink makes a strong design statement.
When considering between a single or double sink bathroom vanity, it depends on:
- Available space
- Number of users
- Desired counter space
Double sinks are ideal for shared bathrooms, offering separate spaces for two people to get ready simultaneously. However, they require more width and may reduce counter space. Single sinks provide more counter area and can be a better choice for bathrooms primarily used by one person or where counter space is a priority.
Consider Faucet and Sink Compatibility
Ensure that your chosen vanity is compatible with your preferred faucet and sink type, consider the following:
Sink types
Undermount: Installed beneath the countertop for a seamless look.
Vessel: Sits on top of the counter, creating a striking visual element.
Drop-in: Installed from above, with a rim that sits on the counter surface.
Integrated: Made of the same material as the countertop for a sleek, continuous look.
Faucet holes
Single-hole: For faucets with a single lever or knob.
Centerset: Three holes spaced 4 inches apart, common for traditional two-handle faucets.
Widespread: Three holes spaced 8-16 inches apart, allowing for separate hot and cold handles.
Consider the placement of the faucet with the sink. Ensure the spout reaches far enough into the basin to avoid splashing.
Choose Durable, Moisture-Resistant Materials
Given the high-moisture environment of a bathroom, it’s essential to select bathroom vanity materials that can withstand frequent exposure to water, steam, and cleaning products. Wood veneers, laminate, and thermofoil are all excellent options that combine style and functionality.
The materials you choose will impact both aesthetics and durability; let’s take a close look:
Bathroom Cabinet Materials
Solid wood: Durable and high-end (e.g., oak, maple, walnut). Each wood type has its grain patterns and natural variations.
MDF (Medium-density fiberboard): More affordable and moisture-resistant. Good for painted finishes but may not hold up as well to moisture over time.
Plywood: Strong and resistant to warping. A good middle-ground between solid wood and MDF.
Metal: Durable and moisture-resistant, often used in industrial or modern designs.
Countertop Materials
Natural stone: Granite, marble (beautiful but requires maintenance). Each piece is unique, adding character to your vanity.
Quartz: Durable and low-maintenance. Offers consistent patterns and a wide range of colours.
Solid surface: Seamless and easy to clean. Can be moulded into various shapes and integrated with sinks.
Concrete: Offers a modern, industrial look and can be customized with pigments.
Wood: Provides warmth but requires regular sealing to protect against moisture.
Finishes
Paint: Offers a wide range of colour options. Consider using moisture-resistant paint for better durability.
Stain: Highlights natural wood grain. Different stains can dramatically change the look of the same wood species.
Laminate: Affordable and easy to clean. Modern laminates can closely mimic the look of wood or stone.
Lacquer: Provides a glossy, durable finish that’s resistant to moisture.
When choosing materials, consider not only the appearance but also the maintenance requirements and how well they will withstand bathroom moisture.
At the end of the day, the most important factor is that your chosen bathroom vanity reflects your style and preferences. There are no “wrong” choices when it comes to bathroom vanity design—only the ones that truly make you happy.
Design experts from 10% Cabinetry are here to help. Selecting the perfect bathroom vanity might be challenging, but you don’t have to go alone. 10% Cabinetry design professionals are available to help you through every stage of the process, from assessing your needs to achieving your vision. Simply schedule a consultation with 10% Cabinetry, and we’ll work together to design a bathroom that exceeds your expectations.
At 10% Cabinetry, we are passionate about helping homeowners achieve their dream homes. Whether you prefer classic elegance or modern flair, 10% Cabinetry is the perfect solution to help you transform your home with timeless elegance and high-quality cabinetry.