Designing your dream bathroom vanity can seem like a daunting task, but breaking it down into simple steps makes the process much more manageable. With some planning and savvy design choices, you can create a beautiful and functional bathroom vanity that suits your unique style and storage needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to design the perfect vanity for your bathroom.
Choosing a Location
The first step is deciding where to locate your new vanity. Here are some factors to consider:
- Traffic flow – Make sure the vanity doesn’t obstruct the way into the bathroom or conflict with the door swing. An island or wall-mounted vanity can help optimize traffic flow.
- Plumbing – Try to choose a location with existing plumbing to minimize construction costs.
- Natural light – Position the vanity near a window to utilize natural light for tasks like makeup application and grooming.
- Electrical – Ensure convenient access to power outlets for appliances and lighting.
- Existing features – Work the vanity into your layout without interfering with other fixtures like the toilet or shower.
Take measurements of your bathroom and create a simple floor plan sketch to visualize different vanity placement options. This will help you select the optimal location.
Selecting a Vanity Style
With your vanity location chosen, now you can explore design styles. Consider the following options:
Freestanding Vanities
A freestanding vanity sits away from the walls like a piece of furniture. Freestanding vanities include:
- Island vanity – Surrounded by open floor space on all four sides. Creates a dramatic focal point.
- Peninsula vanity – Attached to a wall on one side and accessible from three sides. Offers flexible placement.
Wall-Mounted Vanities
Wall-mounted vanities attach directly to the wall and support the sink basin. Benefits include:
- More open floor space
- Easy cleaning underneath
- Contemporary look
Vanity Cabinets
Vanity cabinets sit atop legs or a enclosed base anchored to the floor. Traditional cabinet-style vanities allow you to customize the countertop and sink.
Pedestal Sinks
For small baths, pedestal sinks provide a streamlined look. The sink basin is mounted on a central pedestal in place of cabinet storage.
Vessel Sinks
Vessel sinks sit on top of the vanity countertop like a decorative bowl. The exposed sink design makes a style statement.
Consider your design tastes, storage needs, and bathroom layout to select the ideal vanity type.
Choosing Vanity Dimensions
Now it’s time to pin down the vanity’s physical dimensions. Measure your bathroom space carefully to determine appropriate vanity sizing.
Width – Measure across the allocated vanity space. Leave sufficient clearance on each side – at least 21 inches from the center of the toilet.
Height – Standard vanity height is 31-34 inches tall. For taller users, consider a 36-inch vanity or customize with an adjustable height.
Depth – Standard depths range from 18-22 inches deep. Deeper vanities offer more storage.
Overhang – If recessing the vanity between two walls, allow for a 2-3 inch overhang beyond the walls.
Sink basin – Select a basin width that fits comfortably within your vanity width.
Take note of any size constraints, like small bathrooms, when choosing dimensions. A narrow 24-inch vanity may be best for fitting into tight spaces.
Selecting Vanity Materials
The materials you choose for the vanity cabinet, countertop, and sink will impact the style, durability, and cost. Consider these options:
Cabinet Materials:
- Wood – Affordable, classic material. Choose durable oak, maple or hickory.
- Thermoplastics – Economical option for mold-resistant cabinetry. Brands include Durat and Swanstone.
- Engineered wood – Composite wood is water-resistant. Choose brands like Medite or Plytanium.
- Metal – Sleek option. Stainless steel or powder-coated metals resist moisture.
Countertop Materials:
- Natural stone – Granite, marble, and travertine add elegance. Seal properly.
- Quartz – Highly durable. Resists scratches, heat, and stains.
- Solid surface – Acrylic-based. Seamless appearance. Choose brands like Corian.
- Laminate – Affordable. Formica and Wilsonart offer many pattern options.
- Tile – Use mosaic tiles or large format tiles. Grout lines require maintenance.
- Concrete – Industrial look. Can be stained, polished, or stamped.
Sink Materials:
- Ceramic – Affordable and durable. Available in multiples colors and styles.
- Stainless steel – Sleek, modern look. More expensive but durable.
- Solid surface – Matches countertops for a seamless appearance.
- Glass or stone – For a decorative vessel sink. Check durability.
Select materials that provide the look you want while fitting your budget and everyday use needs.
Designing Storage Solutions
One key advantage of vanities is integrated storage. Evaluate how much you need to store in your bathroom to drive your storage design.
Consider including:
- Drawers for organizing smaller items like makeup and toiletries. Full extension drawers provide easy access.
- Cabinet space for rolled towels, hair tools, cleaning supplies. Optimize with shelves, dividers, and trays.
- Pull-out storage for a hidden space to tuck away extras. Great use of corner spaces.
- Wire pull-out baskets to corral awkward items like curling irons. Hang inside cabinets.
- Towel rods or bars mounted to sides or inside cabinets for space-saving towel storage.
- Lift-top vanity designs to store bulkier items like hair dryers out of sight.
Maximize every inch by selecting smart vanity storage solutions to accommodate all your bathroom stuff.
Incorporating Design Elements
Beyond the basics, don’t forget about the design elements that add flair and customization to your vanity. Consider incorporating:
Fixtures
- Unique faucets, whether widespread, centerset, or wall-mounted. Matching finishes create a coherent look.
- Artistic or vintage-inspired plumbing fixtures for eclectic charm.
- Decorative legs or feet to lift a vanity cabinet off the ground.
- Custom hardware like ornate drawer pulls, knobs, and hinges.
Lighting
- Built-in LED strip lighting to illuminate under cabinets or the sink workspace.
- Decorative sconces or pendants for accent lighting and style.
- Lighted mirrors for ideal visibility for grooming tasks.
Personal Touches
- Customize with paint or wallpaper inside the vanity cabinet.
- Display favorite decorative items on top of the vanity.
- Monogram the drawers or cabinet for a personal touch.
Mirror or Backsplash
- Anchor your vanity with a statement mirror or tile backsplash.
Don’t overlook the finishing touches that make a vanity truly dazzling.
Shopping for Bathroom Vanities
Once you’ve made all the design decisions for your dream vanity, it’s time to start shopping! Here are some top places to browse beautiful bathroom vanities:
- Home improvement stores – Shop in-store or online at Lowe’s, Home Depot, or Menards. Many options across styles and price points.
- Furniture stores – IKEA, Crate + Barrel, and Pottery Barn offer modern vanity collections.
- Bath showrooms – Specialty stores like Bed Bath & Beyond, Kohler, and Ferguson Bath offer high-end vanities.
- Online specialty retailers – Wayfair, Overstock, and Build.com have a huge online selection.
- Classifieds – Check for quality secondhand finds on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.
- Antique stores – For a unique vintage or antique vanity to revamp.
Shop smart by measuring carefully, researching brands, and comparing pricing. Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Take advantage of sales, coupons, and rebates to score the perfect vanity at the best price.
Hiring a Contractor
Installing a new vanity requires plumbing and electrical work, so hiring a contractor is highly recommended unless you’re very DIY-savvy. Here are tips for finding the right contractor:
- Ask friends for referrals or read reviews online. Look for contractors specializing in bathroom remodeling.
- Interview multiple contractors and ask for estimated bids. Get quotes in writing.
- Verify credentials like licensing, insurance, and bonding. This protects you if issues occur.
- Ask plenty of questions to understand timelines, materials, subcontractors, permits, and more.
- Review the contract thoroughly. Confirm project costs, payment schedules, and contingency plans.
Hiring a professional ensures your vanity is installed properly for optimal function and longevity.
Designing Your Dream Bathroom Vanity: Key Takeaways
Designing and installing your perfect bathroom vanity need not be a dreaded process with the right approach. Keep these key tips in mind:
- Consider placement, plumbing, and electrical early when selecting a vanity location.
- Choose a vanity style like freestanding, wall-mount, or traditional cabinet that fits your bathroom layout and needs.
- Carefully measure your existing space to select the right vanity size and dimensions.
- Pick durable, moisture-resistant materials suitable for a damp bathroom environment.
- Incorporate smart storage solutions for towels, toiletries, and bathroom essentials.
- Add personalized flair with fixtures, lighting, mirrors, or specialty finishes.
- Shop smartly online or in stores once you have clear design criteria in mind.
- Hire a professional contractor to ensure proper installation.
With careful planning and design consideration, you can create your ultimate bathroom vanity – organized, stylish, and uniquely you. This step-by-step guide equips you with everything needed to tackle your vanity project with confidence. Happy designing!
Frequently Asked Questions about Designing Bathroom Vanities
How much space do you need for a double vanity?
A double vanity usually needs a minimum of 60 inches of total width. Allow at least 30 inches of clearance space per sink, plus wiggle room in the middle. For proper traffic flow, plan for at least 21 inches of clearance from the vanity to adjacent walls or fixtures.
What is the standard bathroom vanity size?
The most common vanity size is 24-30 inches wide and 18-22 inches deep. Standard vanity height is 31-34 inches. Measure your bath dimensions to determine the ideal vanity size. Allow for overhang if recessing between walls.
Should you choose a single or double sink vanity?
It depends on your bathroom size and needs. A double sink vanity is great for busy households that need two sinks operating simultaneously. A single vanity requires less space and is adequate for one or two users.
How much space should be between a toilet and vanity?
Ideally allow at least 21 inches from the toilet center to the nearest vanity edge. A minimum of 15 inches is required by many building codes. Measure carefully to ensure enough clearance for comfortable access.
What is the most popular vanity color?
White or off-white vanities remain the most popular choice for their versatile style. But any color can work beautifully – grays, blues, and warm wood tones are also common vanity color options. Choose your favorite hue!
What countertop material is best for bathroom vanities?
Quartz and granite make excellent vanity countertop materials due to their durability and water-resistance. Marble looks elegant but requires more maintenance. Tile, solid surface, and laminate offer affordable options.
Where should you position vanity lighting?
Ideal vanity lighting placement is about 30 inches above the counter on each side to evenly illuminate your face for grooming tasks. Mini pendant lights hung at eye level also provide great task lighting.
How deep should a vessel sink vanity be?
Vessel sinks require slightly deeper vanities, ideally 20-22 inches deep. This allows clearance for the sink bowl and faucet positioned higher on the countertop. Add a pop of color with a decorative vessel sink!
What are the most important things to consider when choosing a bathroom vanity?
The location, dimensions, style, color, material, durability, functionality, and budget are key considerations. Prioritize adequate storage, lighting, and plumbing access. Focus on your unique needs and style.
Conclusion
I hope this comprehensive guide provided you with all the necessary information to plan, design, shop for, and install your dream bathroom vanity. The process involves many decisions – like choosing materials, dimensions, and accessories – but breaking it down step-by-step helps make it feel more manageable. Use this as a detailed reference when undertaking your own vanity project. Have fun putting together a beautiful, organized, and functional new focal point for your bathroom!
