When discussing bathroom remodels, the focus is on the bathtub and shower. But the vanity can make or break the space. It combines design and functionality in a way that it can easily become a standout feature. It’s usually the first thing you see when entering the bathroom as well.
What is a Bathroom Vanity?
Before getting into the process of buying a vanity, let’s talk about what it is and why it is so important. In common terms, vanity refers to the sink, the countertop, mirror, and storage surrounding it. If you have additional cabinets that are not attached to the sink, it would not be called a Vanity.
In most small or medium bathrooms, the vanity is the only storage space for essentials like extra towels, bath items, and other necessary things. It serves as a base for the sink and faucets, as well as a countertop to keep the items you need while getting ready. It’s also a way to cover all the exposed plumbing and pipes.
Whether you opt for a setup that covers the pipes with minimal storage or a huge wall-to-wall configuration, having a vanity is essential.
Selecting the best vanity
The right vanity for your bathroom depends on a few factors such as the available space, what you need it for, and the number of sinks you want.
Size and space
The first thing to consider is how much space you have for the vanity as well as the clearance when doors are open. In other words, can you walk around when the doors are open? Can you open the bathroom door, shower door, and/or vanity doors at the same time? Another thing to consider is if you can access the areas around the vanity. For instance, if the vanity is next to the shower stall, can you clean the glass doors or would it be out of reach?
To be honest, there is no ‘wrong’ way to place a cabinet. It depends on how the windows and doors are placed, along with the most convenient place to hang a mirror.
Use
Another factor that comes into play when buying a vanity is the intended use. A vanity for the guest half-bath need not have extra storage which is a must in the master bath or family bathroom. The more use a bathroom sees, the more you have to consider storage and easy cleaning accessibility.
If you need storage for bathroom cleaning items, a medicine cabinet, extra towels, etc. then you will need a vanity with more storage. A half-bath may only need a small wall-mounted vanity with one cabinet.
Number of sinks
Most people like to have a double sink configuration in the master bath and a single bowl for other bathrooms. A double sink vanity will need to be at least 5 feet, so you have elbow room and space on the countertop when two people are using it at the same time. You may always want two sinks but it may not be possible if your bathroom space and configuration do not permit it.
Vanity trends
There are a dizzying variety of vanity options when it comes to color, style, and material.
Styles
The most common vanity is the freestanding option which offers maximum storage space. It does not have to be mounted to a wall and so you can place it anywhere. You can get freestanding vanities in multiple colors and sizes, so you get the right one that matches your design and need for storage.
A wall-mounted vanity requires a stud in the bathroom wall but it can really open up a small bathroom visually. These vanities offer modest storage as the bottom is usually open. However, it does offer space to place a trash can or storage containers like a basket.
For really small bathrooms or where you need to reserve floor space for accessibility reasons, corner vanities are ideal. They can fit odd shapes corners, offer at least 1 or 2 storage drawers/cabinets, and are usually wall mounted.
Materials
A vanity typically comes in 2 separate pieces – the countertop and the cabinet. Countertops generally have an overhang of an inch or two, so make sure to order the correct size for your particular cabinet size. You can also buy all-in-one vanities but they can be quite heavy to maneuver into place as both pieces are attached.
Vanity countertops are usually made of a strong, water-resistant material like stone, granite, or quartz. Cabinets are made from wood that can withstand the high humidity levels in a bathroom as well as the weight of the countertop.
Last but not the least, leave room in the budget for a mirror and lighting. The mirror size should match the vanity, so a large double sink configuration will need a bigger mirror which is generally more expensive. You will also need lights all around or at the top of the mirror in addition to the ambient bathroom fixture.
