The vanity in your bathroom might seem like a simple detail, but the design of it can be quite complex. From the layout to the type of sinks, material and faucets, there are plenty of decisions to make, and how you make them will impact the look of your entire bathroom.
Layout
Whether you are building a custom home and deciding on the layout of your bathroom or renovating an existing space to improve the flow and aesthetic appeal, the first step in designing your bathroom vanity is figuring out what the layout is going to look like. This involves knowing where you will place the vanity in your bathroom, figuring out how large it needs to be and deciding between one or two vanities in the space.
A galley layout allows for two vanities separated by a walk-through in between them. You can add a sink to each vanity, or one can be used for cleaning up and the other for putting on makeup and doing your hair.
Horizontal vanities are another popular choice in many bathrooms. They maximize storage by incorporating drawers and shelving and also provide a very streamlined appearance. Horizontal vanities offer plenty of counter space, making smart use of every square inch of your bathroom.
L-Shaped vanities are a bit less efficient when it comes to how you use your space because corners are not always functional, but they make for an attractive addition to many master baths. This is a great choice if you have a lot of space in your bathroom and really want to avoid feeling cramped even when more than one person stands at the vanity at the same time.
If you only plan to add one vanity and it is more than 60” wide, consider adding two sinks to it. This is almost a standard in many master baths and functional in secondary bathrooms as well. While sticking to one sink means more counter space, the two sink design is on-trend and a popular choice of many design professionals.
Number of Sinks
After you have determined the layout of your vanity and know how many sinks you would like to add, it’s time to focus on style. Vanities can be contemporary, classic or even created by repurposing a cherished family heirloom. There are built-in vanities, free-standing vanities and even floating vanities that attach directly to the wall. You might choose to stain or paint your vanity and include drawers or open shelving.
Countertops
Your next selection to make is a countertop. There are many different materials that work well for this purpose in a bathroom including granite, marble, quartz, solid surface, wood or laminate. Granite and quartz are probably the two most popular choices, but granite countertops will need to be re-sealed periodically to maintain their appearance. Marble is a softer surface and does look beautiful in a master bath, but it can take a beating when used in a part of the home that gets a lot of use and sees a lot of wear and tear. Wood and laminate provide a unique appearance, but they might not mingle well with the high moisture content in most bathrooms. Discuss your choice with a qualified Peoria general contractor to review the pros and cons of each and determine which will work best in your space.
Type of Sink
Next in the process comes determining the type of sink you would like to include in your bathroom. There are many different options here including undermount, sinks that attach directly to the wall, drop-in and vessel sinks. Each is available in a variety of different materials including ceramic, glass, marble, porcelain, natural stone and even metal. When selecting your sink, consider the overall look of the bathroom and what you are going for – whether that be traditional, contemporary, shabby chic, artistic or something that is uniquely your own. Some sinks, including many undermount sinks, are virtually unnoticeable, but others, such as vessel sinks, become a focal point on your vanity and can really shape the appearance of your bathroom.
Finishings
Finally, it’s time to pick fixtures. This includes deciding on the lighting style you would like as well as any knobs and pulls, faucets and mirrors. There is no shortage of options here, and what you ultimately decide will depend largely on your personal taste and budget. Consulting with a knowledgeable Peoria design and construction professional can help you to narrow down your selections and make smart choices that will really enhance your bathroom.
Renovating a bathroom in Peoria involves making lots of choices including the vanity. Take the time to review all of your options, consider your budget and consult with a knowledgeable general contractor to help you make the right choices. Alair Homes Peoria is always here to assist. For a free, no obligation consultation, give us a call.