How to Simplify Your Bathroom Vanity Selection Process

Whether you are remodeling an existing bathroom or designing a new bathroom, figuring out how much space and what size vanity will best fit that space is definitely a good place to start in your selection process. If ample space is available, consider upgrading a single bathroom vanity to a double sink bathroom vanity. The simple switch is going to add function and value to your bathroom and home. Vanities come in a variety of shapes and sizes, knowing exactly how much width and height you have to work with, is going to significantly help you narrow down options available.

When measuring the vanity area, always pay close attention to the location of doors, electrical outlets and other fixtures. The last thing you want is a door constantly swinging open wide enough to hit your new vanity every time. Covering up the only outlet in the area could also pose a major problem because extension cords are not recommended for bathroom use. A vanity’s proximity to a toilet, tub, or shower must also be taken into account. Always leave enough space for daily function and to easily clean the area when needed. It is recommended that you check local building codes for any restrictions on bathroom vanity installation especially if you are unsure of proper placement.

There are many things to consider when purchasing a new bathroom vanity.  Fortunately, there are also many different types of vanities on the market today.  Features like small versus large, short versus tall, single versus double, counter and storage space are all things that must be carefully considered when making your final decision.  For instance, installing a smaller vanity can add much needed square footage to a small bathroom.  Upgrading to a larger vanity can add a second sink so you no longer have to share one.  A taller vanity could mean you won’t have to bend as far when washing your face or brushing your teeth.  Counter space is something most of us can sacrifice but only if the vanity comes with plenty of underneath storage. 

Upgrading a vanity that has very little storage, above and below, is a wise decision no matter how you look at it.  The extra space can be used to store bathroom supplies, towels, or cleaning supplies.  Keep in mind that you do not have to sacrifice style if you need to add more storage to a vanity area.  Many modern bathroom vanities today come with ample storage above and below the counter top.  Certain sink styles also alleviate space both on top and below depending on which mount style you choose.  For instance, vessel sinks take up more space on top and leave you with more storage space below.  Undermount sinks are the exact opposite.  The type, style, and mounting of a sink can easily increase or decrease the amount of space you have on top or below a vanity area. 

Style is something none of us want to do without when it comes to remodeling or designing a new bathroom.  Thankfully, there are many styles of bathroom vanities to choose from including traditional or antique, and modern or more contemporary.  Depending on the look you are going for, finding a vanity that meets your space, function, and style needs can be fairly easy.  Begin by first determining the overall décor of the space.  Traditional and antique pieces work better in older homes or restorations.  In these instances, a modern vanity would be unnecessary in both function and design but if your home is newer and other design elements of the home are modern then a modern vanity is exactly what you need.

The major determining factor when it comes to the exact style of a vanity usually boils down to the material used and the type of finish applied.  Modern design tends to include materials that are eco friendly like sustainable lumber, darker stains, streamlined or sleek in shape, and offer the consumer a unique overall appearance.  Antique pieces are intricate in design but tend to be larger or bulky, and made of whatever material was popular or considered expensive during that time.  Antique vanities are harder to find and come with larger ticket prices depending on the material used.  Traditional pieces are the cheapest because they are usually made of inexpensive materials and can fit just about any design scheme. 

When purchasing a bathroom vanity, many people forget to check if fixtures like sinks, faucets, mirrors, and plumbing are included. Although many companies do include most of the fixtures needed in order to complete the entire look you are trying to accomplish, some do not. Choosing faucets, mirrors, and sinks can be fun. There are many different sizes, styles, and materials to choose from. For instance, faucets come in an array of finishes including copper, nickel, and stainless steel. Be sure to choose a finish that you can easily carry out throughout the rest of the space or one that matches the existing fixtures in the rest of the bathroom.

Sinks are a great way to add style, color, and an artistic element to your bathroom vanity design. Vessel sinks for instance come in a variety of materials including copper, stainless steel, marble, porcelain, and even intricate glass. Shapes like rectangular, oval, shell-like are the most popular because they add a unique element to the vanity design. The same can be said for vanity mirrors. There are many different shapes, sizes, materials, and finishes to choose from with each bringing any vanity area with another unique design quality. The best thing about accessory shopping is that anything pretty much goes as long as it fits the type of vanity you have chosen.