Rustic bathroom vanities are a popular choice for creating a warm, inviting bathroom with old-world charm. Made from natural materials like wood, stone, and metal, rustic vanities bring a sense of nature into the bathroom while providing storage and counter space. This extensive guide will explore everything you need to know about designing and installing a beautiful rustic bathroom vanity.
What Defines a Rustic Bathroom Vanity?
Rustic bathroom vanities are characterized by certain design elements that give them their timeworn, natural aesthetic:
- Materials: Rustic vanities use materials like solid wood, reclaimed wood, oak, pine, cedar, and antique wood. Stone slabs like marble, granite, and slate are also common. Wrought iron, galvanized metal, copper, and brushed nickel are used for hardware and accents.
- Finishes: The wood and metal surfaces are usually unfinished, stained, glazed, or treated to achieve a weathered, worn-in look. Common finish options include natural, whitewashed, grey-washed, distressed, and rustic.
- Details: Rustic vanities often incorporate elements like exposed frames, visible joints, rough edges, and unique markings from the wood’s natural grain. Other details include exposed pipes, woven baskets, and hammered metal hardware.
- Farmhouse Style: Many rustic vanities overlap with farmhouse styles. Features like white shiplap, cubby shelves, and gooseneck faucets give them a country cottage vibe.
- Warm Colors: Earthy tones like browns, tans, reds, and oranges are prevalent on rustic bathroom vanities. Soft greens and blues also complement the natural materials.
- Simple Lines: Rustic vanity designs tend to be simple and functional. Ornamentation is minimal, letting the wood, stone, and metal textures speak for themselves.
Benefits of a Rustic Bathroom Vanity
Installing a rustic bathroom vanity offers several advantages beyond its attractive visual style:
Adds Warmth and Texture
The organic textures of wood, stone, and metal bring life to bathrooms with their natural grain patterns, pitting, and color variations. The tactile elements appeal to the senses and feel pleasant under your fingertips.
Provides Durability
Properly sealed natural wood and solid surface stone tops are highly durable in moist bathroom environments. Rustic vanities made from quality materials will withstand daily use for many years.
Offers Storage Solutions
With their cabinets, drawers, and shelves, rustic bathroom vanities provide ample storage space to corral all your toiletries out of sight. Built-in hampers and pull-out trays are great for organization.
Easy to Clean
The smooth, nonporous materials used for rustic vanities like granite and sealed hardwood can be easily cleaned and sanitized. Their simple styling also eliminates nooks and crannies where grime can hide.
Adds Personality
Rustic vanities give your bathroom its own unique character you won’t find in a big box store. The handcrafted charm and small imperfections add warmth, story, and originality.
Complements Many Design Styles
With their versatility, rustic vanities pair well with several bath decor styles including farmhouse, cottage, coastal, lodge, and more. Their natural beauty acts as a neutral design canvas.
Provides Value
Rustic bathroom vanities made from quality reclaimed woods and vintage materials often increase in value over time. Their patinas become more beautiful as they age.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Rustic Bathroom Vanity
Selecting the right rustic vanity requires some careful consideration regarding size, materials, color, and more:
Size
Make sure to measure your bathroom space first to ensure the vanity will fit. Consider traffic flow, door swings, and clearances. Standard vanity widths are 24”, 30”, 36”, 48” and 60”. Depth is usually 21”-24”.
Materials
Choose wood types like pine, oak, or cedar that stand up to moisture. Marble, granite, slate, and limestone make durable stone slab tops. Opt for high-quality metals that won’t corrode like brushed nickel and copper.
Style
Decide if you prefer a more elegant Old World style, a casual farmhouse look, or a refined rustic aesthetic. This will guide your choice of materials, finishes, hardware, and details.
Color/Finish
Select a finish that gives your vanity the desired look – from light whitewashed to dark espresso. Softer colors like pale blues suit coastal bathrooms while deeper reds and browns match traditional decors.
Faucets
Look for faucets with finishes that match the vanity hardware. Farmhouse styles have high-arc spouts. Vintage-inspired fixtures add old-fashioned appeal.
Sink
Undermount sinks preserve counter space on top while vessel basins make a style statement. Stainless, ceramic, copper, and stone sinks pair well with rustic vanities.
Storage
Maximize storage options with drawers, cabinets, pull-out trays, and open shelving. Make sure the layout is functional for your needs. Closed storage hides clutter.
Lighting
Sconces, pendants, and accent lighting amp up the rustic style. Go for exposed Edison bulbs, wagon wheel fixtures, or antique-style lamps.
Budget
Authentic reclaimed wood commands higher prices. You can find quality rustic vanities at lower price points if you choose wood veneers and faux finishes over solid wood slabs.
Rustic Bathroom Vanity Ideas
Rustic vanities come in endless shapes, sizes, and styles. Here are some top design ideas to inspire your perfect rustic bathroom:
1. Reclaimed Barn Wood Vanity
- Salvaged barn wood oak planks sandblasted to bring out the texture
- Soft grey stain adds worn character
- Floating design with metal frame exposes pipes
- Double vessel sinks sit on a reclaimed pine slab
2. Rustic Stone Vanity
- Honed marble stone top and hand-chiseled limestone base
- Iron gate door fronts add antique farmhouse charm
- Cubby drawers break up the solid stone
- Round copper sink exudes vintage style
3. Whiskey Barrel Vanity
- Actual refurbished whiskey barrels act as the cabinet and drawers
- Rough-hewn oak top complements the bourbon-soaked oak barrels
- Wrought iron hardware echoes the metal hoops of the barrels
- Exposed plumbing under sink has industrial accent
4. Modern Rustic Vanity
- Sleek solid teak wood construction with minimalist lines
- Natural wax finish allows the wood grain to shine
- Undermount rectangular porcelain sink
- Hidden storage behind unembellished cabinet doors
5. Farmhouse Vanity with Shiplap
- Classic farmhouse silhouette with tapered legs
- Genuine pine wood shiplap covers cabinet fronts
- Distressed paint and visible wood grains add character
- Cast iron fixtures and galvanized metal accents
6. Rustic Beach Vanity
- Weathered cedar planks with a light grey bleached finish
- Woven baskets for open storage suit beachy vibe
- Wave-shaped floating shelf made of driftwood
- White porcelain vessel sink pops against dark wood
As these examples illustrate, rustic vanities can take so many different forms. Whether you prefer a more polished or refined rustic style or want to go bold with full-on reclaimed woods, there are endless options to give your bathroom that perfect natural, timeworn aesthetic.
How to Finish and Protect a Rustic Wood Vanity
Since wood vanities will endure hot, humid bathroom environments, it’s crucial to apply the proper finish. Follow these steps:
1. Lightly Sand Surface
Use fine 120-180 grit sandpaper to smooth any rough spots on bare wood. Make sure the surface is clean.
2. Apply Wood Conditioner
Applying a sealant first helps the stain absorb evenly. Let it fully dry per the manufacturer’s directions.
3. Stain the Wood
Use a water-based penetrating stain in your desired color. Apply with a clean brush or cloth evenly with the wood grain. Let dry completely.
4. Seal with Polyurethane
Apply 2-3 coats of satin water-based poly, sanding lightly between coats. The finish protects the wood from moisture damage.
5. Add Topcoat for Extra Protection
For even more water-resistance, finish with a layer ofConversion Varnish one brand of conversion varnish, a ceramic-infused topcoat.
6. Apply Beeswax Polish and Conditioner
Maintain the natural beauty of your wood vanity by regularly applying beeswax wood polish. Buff it in to strengthen the finish and enhance the patina over time.
Following these finishing steps helps ensure your rustic wood vanity will stay looking beautiful in your bathroom for many years while avoiding water damage, fading, and stains.
Rustic Bathroom Vanity Maintenance Tips
To keep your rustic vanity looking its best, be sure to:
- Wipe down all surfaces with a soft, damp cloth after each use. Microfiber cloths easily remove water spots.
- Immediately wipe up any spills to prevent stains. Use a mild soap and water solution if needed. Rinse with clean water and dry with a towel.
- Avoid abrasive cleansers, harsh chemicals, and scrub brushes that can scratch wood and stone surfaces.
- Seal any new stains right away with an appropriate wood or stone sealer per the manufacturer’s recommendations. This prevents the stain from setting.
- Re-sand and re-stain wood surfaces as needed if scratches or chips occur to keep the finish uniform. Re-apply protective sealants after.
- Re-seal natural stone every 1-2 years as sealants break down over time due to moisture exposure. Use a stone-safe sealing product.
- Use bath mats, tray liners, and toilet brush holders to protect vanity surfaces from toiletries that can erode finishes.
- Tighten hardware, hinges, and knobs periodically to keep doors and drawers operating smoothly.
- Use furniture polish and beeswax on wood surfaces to nourish the finish.
With the proper care, a quality rustic bathroom vanity will remain a beautiful focal point in your bathroom for decades to come. The natural patina will only improve with age.
Rustic Bathroom Vanities by Size
The size of your bathroom and vanity space will inform what dimensions will work best. Here are some top-rated rustic vanities for popular sizes:
Narrow Depth Rustic Vanities (21-24 inches)
Narrow depth vanities leave more space for doors, traffic flow, and small bathrooms.
- Wyndham Collection Sheffield 72” Double Vanity – This gorgeous reclaimed wood double vanity has a depth of only 21.5”. The aged bourbon finish and Carrara white marble top give it rustic elegance.
- Design Element London Double Sink 48” Vanity – At 24” deep, this vanity with double undermount sinks still provides storage with its three central drawers. The distressed gray finish has chippy appeal.
Medium Depth Rustic Vanities (25-27 inches)
This versatile depth accommodates most bathrooms well.
- Virtu USA Caroline 60″ Single Bathroom Vanity– The Cararra white marble top and solid oak construction give this 25” deep vanity farmhouse style. The arched mirror and vintage brass finishes amp up the rustic charm.
- Rosecliff Heights Augusta 61″ Solid Fir Wood Single Vanity – Made from sustainably sourced solid fir with iron handles, this single vanity has a depth of 27”. Beautiful multicolor variations in the natural wood grain shine through the smooth lacquered finish.
Extra Deep Rustic Vanities (28-30 inches)
Maximize storage with these extra roomy vanities.
- Greyleigh Laramie 61″ Double Bathroom Vanity Set – At 29” deep, this reclaimed pine double vanity has expansive storage with dovetail drawer construction. The weathered grey finish highlights knots for rustic texture.
- Brayden Studio Hanimals 30″ Single Bathroom Vanity – Made from mango wood solids and recycled elm wood veneer, this cool single vanity features a pet-themed walnut finish. With a depth of 28”, there’s plenty of room for toiletries and towels.
Extra Wide Rustic Vanities (Over 60 inches)
Make a bold statement with an extra wide double vanity.
- Rosecliff Heights Caudle Double 72” Vanity – Gorgeous aged teak wood in a grey weathered finish spans 72” wide. At just 24” deep, it works in large and small bathrooms alike.
- Sunnywood Annora 72” Double Vanity – With its massive width of 72” and depth of 22”, this double vanity provides two large undermount sinks and a huge central drawer for storing all bathroom essentials. Reclaimed pine wood in a rich coffee finish gives it rustic style.
No matter your bathroom’s size and layout, there is a beautifully crafted rustic vanity available to match your space and storage needs. Carefully measure the room and opt for narrower depths if space is tight. For large bathrooms, go bold with an extra wide double vanity.
Rustic Bathroom Vanity Ideas by Budget
Rustic vanities come in a wide range of price points to suit any budget. Here are great options under $500, $1000, $2000, and over $2000:
Under $500
- Tangkula 47” Distressed Bathroom Vanity – This budget-friendly single vanity has a farmhouse look thanks to the distressed white finish. Includes an undermount ceramic sink.
- Horace 48” Antique Bathroom Vanity Set – Only $339, this single vanity features a pine wood top and engineered wood facade with an antique grey rub-through finish. Includes ceramic sink and mirror.
Under $1000
- Elegant Home Fashions Nova 60” Rustic Double Vanity – Real oak veneers and wood grain finishes give this spacious double vanity rustic flair. Includes two undermount sinks and roomy drawers for only $899.
- Virtu USA Wyndham 48” Single Vanity – Constructed of solid Alder wood and featuring brushed nickel hardware, this single vanity with soft-closing drawers costs just $899.99.
Under $2000
- Spa Escapes Norbrook 60” Rustic Double Vanity – Made from American black walnut with an oil-rubbed bronze finish, this gorgeous double vanity comes with two porcelain undermount sinks for $1,670.
- Spa Escapes Sedgewick 72” Double Vanity – From solid mindi wood and wood veneers, this double vanity has a hand-rubbed tobacco finish. It comes with two sinks for $1,899.
Over $2000
- Virtu USA Caroline 60” Single Vanity – A showstopper carved from cultured Italian Carrara marble and white oak, this single vanity costs $2,250. Brass feet and antique mirror add allure.
- Spa Escapes Fairhaven 84” Double Vanity – Truly stunning with its solid Appalachian hardwoods and forged iron handles, this massive reclaimed wood double vanity costs $4,550.
For less than $500, you can find smaller rustic vanities great for powder rooms. Budget $1000-$2000 for most standard-sized single and double vanities in quality wood species. For statement pieces over $2000, you’ll get premium materials, ornate detailing, and top-end style.
Recommended Places to Shop for Rustic Bathroom Vanities
Several retailers specialize in rustic bathroom furniture so you can browse a wide selection all in one place:
- Wayfair: Over 2,000 rustic bathroom vanities with free shipping on most. Sort by size, finish, price, and more. Often runs sales on select styles.
- Overstock: Rustic wood vanities in hundreds of styles all eligible for free shipping. Includes major brands like KraftMaid and Southern Enterprises at discounted pricing.
- Home Depot: Wide in-store selection of affordable to luxury rustic vanities. Available in single and double configurations up to 72”. Free shipping on $399+.
- Lowe’s: Hundreds of rustic and farmhouse vanities across a range of sizes and prices. Offers free in-home delivery on large purchases and online ordering with in-store pickup.
- Build.com: High-end handcrafted rustic vanities in specialty woods like quipo and lyptus. Custom sizing and finishing options available. Pricey but unparalleled quality.
- Pottery Barn: Upscale rustic vanities in premium reclaimed and solid woods. Styles like French Country and aged bourbon finishes. Ships directly with white glove delivery service included.
- Vintage Bath: Specializes in unique, antique-inspired vanities. Many one-of-a-kind options from salvaged woods, vintage metals, and repurposed antiques.
Take your time browsing the abundant rustic vanity options at these retailers and home improvement stores. Compare sizes, prices, materials, and styles before making your purchase.
Rustic Bathroom Vanity Design Inspiration
Here are some stunning rustic bathroom images featuring a variety of vanities to provide design inspiration:
