Bathroom Vanities: What You Need to Know

Looking to renovate your bathroom vanity? There are many types, styles and sizes of bathroom vanities to choose from. So, before installing a new vanity and sink, it can be beneficial to recruit the help of a bathroom renovation specialist. A reno professional will help you choose the best vanity for your bathroom and ensure that it is properly (and safely) installed.

To help you get started, our Edmonton renovation experts have shared their insight on the most common types of bathroom vanities, as well as the top trends. Check out what they have to say below!

What are bathroom vanities?

First thing’s first – what are bathroom vanities?

Typically, vanities are cabinets that also hold the bathroom sink. The key here is that the cabinets are attached to the sink. If you have cabinets in your bathroom but they aren’t connected to a sink, then this is not considered a vanity.

While most vanities include a sink, countertop, storage space and a mirror, some have minimal storage and are mainly used to hide the sink’s plumbing. For example, pedestal sinks are considered vanities. Although they offer no storage, these types of vanities do a great job of hiding plumbing.

There are many benefits to having a bathroom vanity, especially one with lots of cabinet space. Installing a new vanity and sink will allow you to add storage space and will create a tidy and organized bathroom.

Different Types of Bathroom Vanities

There are six common types of bathroom vanities.

1. Pedestal sink
2. Free-standing
3. Floating (or wall-mounted)
4. Under-mounted
5. Vessel
6. Vanity cabinet

Pedestal Sink

A pedestal sink is the simplest type of vanity you can install.

Pedestal sinks require very little space. Therefore, if you have a small bathroom, this type of vanity may be the best option. Pedestal sinks are great for concealing plumbing and creating a sophisticated and elegant look. However, the downside to a pedestal sink is that it provides little to no countertop space and no cabinets for storage.

Free-Standing Bathroom Vanities

A free-standing vanity has its own legs and sits in the bathroom like a piece of furniture. If you are installing a new vanity and sink and don’t want a unit built onto the wall, a free-standing bathroom vanity may be the right choice for your bathroom.

Like pedestal sinks, free-standing bathroom vanities are great for smaller spaces. However, unlike pedestals, free-standing vanities commonly offer storage under the sink. They also usually have more counter space and are square or rectangular in shape.

This type of vanity comes in various styles and is more versatile, as it is available with one or two sinks.

Floating Vanity

A floating, or wall-mounted, vanity is mounted to the wall. This leaves space between the vanity and the floor, giving the impression that the unit is floating.

This type of bathroom vanity is common in modern design. The main benefit of a floating vanity is the floor space underneath. This space helps to make the bathroom appear bigger and creates more room for storage.

Please Note: when installing a new vanity and sink that’s floating, installation is very important. The install must be done correctly so that the unit is securely fastened to the wall. Therefore, hiring a professional renovation company, like Nord Alta, to help with your reno and securely install your floating vanity is highly recommended.

Under-Mounted

An under-mounted vanity holds an under-mounted sink. An under-mounted sink is recessed and mounted below the countertop (inside of the vanity). As a result, the sink is flush with the counter.

Under-mounted vanities are easier to clean, as debris can be wiped directly into the sink. Unfortunately, the downfall of this type of vanity is that there’s less space under the counter for storage.

Vessel

A vessel vanity is a vanity that has a vessel sink on top. Unlike an under-mounted sink, a vessel sink sits above the counter.

Like many types of bathroom vanities, a vessel vanity will commonly have storage underneath, as well as lots of counter space.

There are several benefits to vessel vanities. The most significant advantage is that a vessel vanity offers more counter space than most vanities. This is because the sink takes up less space than a typical recessed sink. Keep in mind, however, that cleaning around the sink will be more difficult than with an under-mounted sink.

If you’re installing a new vanity and sink, consider a vessel sink to help you create more counter space. Vessel sinks come in many different shapes, sizes, and materials. As a result, you can get creative with the aesthetic.

Vanity Cabinet

A vanity cabinet is similar to what you have in your kitchen. It consists of a countertop, sink, pull-out drawers, and cupboards.

This type of bathroom vanity provides the most storage and typically the most counterspace as well.

Now that you know what your options are, let’s take a look at some bathroom vanity trends to help you decide which type of vanity you want!

Bathroom Vanity Trends

These bathroom vanity trends will provide you with some inspiration for renovating your bathroom vanity.

Open Shelving

If you’re looking for a spa-like bathroom, consider a vanity with open shelving. Not only does open shelving create a beautiful look, but it also provides more storage space.

If your bathroom is small, this can be an exceptionally great design choice. Open shelving will give you more room to store towels and other bathroom essentials, plus the open space will make your bathroom look bigger.

Floating Bathroom Vanities

Floating vanities are a favourite right now. Not only are they sleek and stylish, but they also create an open and beautiful space.

Like with open shelving, your bathroom will look and feel bigger with a floating vanity. Best of all, the height of a floating vanity can easily be adjusted during installation. Unfortunately, height options are limited when it comes to free-standing vanities and pedestal sinks. Therefore, if height is a concern, installing a new vanity and sink that is floating is likely your best option.

Under-Mount Sinks

Vanities with under-mounted sinks are a very popular option. Homeowners prefer under-mount sinks because they are easier to clean (especially compared to vessel sinks). They also offer a sleek and modern look.

Vessel Sinks

Depending on the style you’re going for, vessel sinks are another common trend. A vanity with a vessel sink will create a more luxurious-looking bathroom. Plus, many people prefer vessel sinks because they provide more counter space, as well as free space under the sink.

Double Sinks and Vanities

Double sinks and vanities are extremely popular, especially in master bedroom ensuites. Many homeowners find that having two sinks is more convenient and that the additional storage space is helpful.

The biggest issue with installing a double vanity is space. On average, a double vanity measures 60 to 80 inches in length. Of course, the more counter space you want, the larger the unit will need to be. So, before you set your sights on double sinks, be sure you measure your space to guarantee there is enough room.

Tips for Installing a New Vanity and Sink

Ready to renovate your bathroom vanity? Here are some important factors to consider before you install a new vanity.

1. What style are you going for?

Bathroom vanities have a major impact on the look and feel of a bathroom. Therefore, it’s important to decide what style you’re going for before you start looking at vanities. There are so many options to choose from – so, going in without a good idea of what you’re looking for can be daunting!

If you need help with bathroom design tips or renovation ideas, check out our bathroom renovation blog.

2. How much space do you have?

The size of your bathroom will also impact the bathroom vanity you choose. For instance, some vanities are more suitable for small spaces than others.

If you have a tight space, you may want to consider a pedestal sink. Alternatively, floating bathroom vanities are a good choice for small bathrooms, as they will make the space look bigger and offer room underneath for additional storage.

On the other hand, large bathrooms look much better with large vanities. In this case, installing a new vanity and sink that fills the space is ideal.

3. What is the bathroom used for?

If the bathroom you’re renovating is the main bath or a master ensuite, you’ll likely need more counter and storage space. If the bathroom is a small guest washroom or powder room, you might consider style over functionality. This is why it’s important to consider where the bathroom is located and who will be using it.

4. How many sinks do you want?

Deciding on the number of sinks you want will also help you narrow down your options. If you’d like two sinks, you’ll need a larger vanity.

5. What’s your budget?

Your budget will determine the size, style, and quality of the bathroom vanity you choose. Setting a budget is a good idea before starting any renovation.

How much does it cost to install a new vanity and sink?

When installing a new vanity and sink, homeowners can expect to pay $600 to $4,000. The total cost will depend on the size and quality of the vanity, as well as the home renovation company you hire to install it. Whether the bathroom vanity is custom-built or pre-made will also greatly impact the price.

For a complete bathroom renovation in Edmonton, you should budget for at least $20,000.

6. What materials do you want to use?

Bathroom vanities are available in many different materials. Consider what kind of countertop you’d like, as well as what you want the cabinets to be made from. These choices will have a huge impact on the style of your bathroom, as well as the price of your renovation.

What is the best material to use for a bathroom vanity?

The best material to use for a bathroom vanity depends on whether you are doing a high-end renovation or something more moderate. For a top-of-the-line bathroom, we recommend solid wood cabinets and stone countertops (e.g. granite or marble).

If you’re looking for a cost-effective reno, these expensive materials won’t be feasible. Instead, for cabinetry, consider medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). As for the countertops, using synthetic materials will help you save some money. Laminate and cultured marble, for example, offer a beautiful finish and will hold up well over time.

Need more help choosing the perfect bathroom vanity?

As one of the top bathroom renovation companies in Edmonton, Nord Alta is here to help. If you have questions or need help getting started with your bathroom reno, give us a shout!