Even though most bathrooms tend to be the smallest areas of our homes, their contribution to our daily life is undeniable. They’re the places we go to refresh ourselves and get ready in the morning, and the spaces we come back to in the evening to unwind from a long day. You don’t need anything fancy, just a few basic elements to create comfort and convenience.
With that said, one of the most significant parts of any bathroom is the vanity. It’s usually the first thing people notice when they set foot in this area and the item that ties everything together. It doesn’t matter if you’re trying to create a traditional bathroom look or something more modern, the vanity is what sets the tone for the whole space.
Contents
What Kinds of Bathroom Vanities Are There?
When you’re trying to decide on a functional and contemporary single vanity for your personal oasis, you’ll first have to decide on the manner of installation. This largely depends on the size of your bathroom and configuration, as well as the general theme you’re trying to go for.
Wall-Mount Vanities
Kicking things off with a slightly minimalist approach, wall-mount vanities offer a space-saving solution for smaller bathrooms, as they’re mounted to the wall and do not take up any floor area. They’re inherently quite appealing and modern but can be styled to fit into a traditional aesthetic with the right materials and finishes.
Since they don’t have legs, they’re usually easier to keep clean with fewer nooks and crannies that dirt can get trapped in. Their floating design also creates an illusion of more space and makes the whole room feel more open and airy.
Freestanding Vanities
Freestanding vanities are the more classic option, with their timeless feel and elegant look that never go out of style. Their name comes from the fact that they don’t need to be mounted to anything, so you can move them around freely and put them wherever you like.
In terms of design, you can go as intricate or as simple as you like, depending on the feel of the bathroom. If your space is fairly small, you should opt for a contemporary single vanity with a smaller sink and countertop. If there’s more room to work with, go for more spacious models with greater countertop space and an extra storage drawer.
Corner Vanities
A corner vanity is certainly an underrated option, as it fits in tight spaces and makes the most of an area that would otherwise be left unused. It tucks right into the corner of your bathroom and is great if you’re trying to create a traditional look with the intricate detailing.
This type of vanity is not as spacious and often comes with open shelving, but it does have its own signature charm that can easily turn a bathroom into a quaint oasis or a luxurious hideaway. Just make sure the installation is properly done, as it needs to be supported and mounted correctly.
Which Material Is Best for Bathroom Vanities?
Aside from the particular model and general look, the material that makes up the vanity is equally as significant. It should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also able to withstand high levels of humidity and fluctuating temperatures.
Timber
Perhaps the most common material used in bathroom vanities is timber, thanks to its versatility and ageless beauty. Its natural texture and tone bring a certain warmth to the whole setup, while the wide range of different stains and finishes allows you to tailor it to your own taste.
The kind that’s used in bathrooms, however, needs to be properly treated with a moisture-resistant sealant or lacquer to ensure that it doesn’t get warped or damaged in the long run. It’s different from regular timber, as it requires additional sealing and protection against water damage.
Plywood
An alternative to timber is plywood, which is a natural and renewable material that’s easy to work with. It shares some of the qualities of timber, such as a natural look and luxurious feel, but it’s a bit cheaper and more lightweight. It also has high water resistance and won’t absorb humidity easily, so it’s ideal for high-moisture environments like bathrooms.
Despite its enduring properties, plywood is often overlooked due to its somewhat plain appearance. It doesn’t have the same character as other materials and usually requires painting or other decorative treatments to make it stand out from the rest.
Concrete
Next up is the ever-popular concrete, which is undoubtedly one of the most versatile materials out there. It’s derived from natural sources and is extremely strong, so it won’t be easily damaged or warped by high levels of humidity.
When properly sealed, concrete is also easy to clean and maintain. It can take various finishes, from glossy to matte, with charming shades of white and grey that imminently elevate the look of your bathroom.
Stainless Steel
Finally, stainless steel is a sleek and appealing option with its elegant lines and glossy look. It’s incredibly durable and doesn’t lose its shine or colour over time, so it’s always a smart choice if you want to keep your space looking crisp and modern.
Plus, it’s easy to clean and maintain since it doesn’t require any kind of extra treatment or resealing. All you need is a damp cloth and some mild detergent every now and then to keep it sparkling and shimmering.