Choosing the Right Vanity for your Bathroom Remodel

When you’re taking on a bathroom remodel, the vanity is one of the biggest decisions you have to make. Particularly if you have a small bath where space is a luxury, you’ll want to make sure the size and placement is spot-on, otherwise you might be stuck with a bathroom you don’t love. Therefore, you’ll need to take care in choosing the right vanity for your bathroom.Determine How Much Space You HaveThis is your first priority. It doesn’t matter if you’re planning for a massive master bath or a tiny half bath; you’ll need to measure your space and determine how much room you have to work with. The overall width refers to the side-to-side measurement of the vanity top, but you’ll also need to measure the height and depth. The vanity height is decided by your personal preferences, as well as the existence of mirrors or cabinets. Depth is particularly important in smaller spaces, where you’ll have to account for shower doors, the entryway, and the like.Existing PlumbingKnowing where the existing plumbing is will partially determine vanity placement. Remodeling costs will start to increase if you want to change any of the plumbing.SinksIf space isn’t an issue, consider whether you want one sink or two sinks. Pedestal sinks take up the least amount of space, while double vanities clearly occupy the most. A double vanity is a good option if you have a shared bathroom.There are also three main types of sink options:

• Undermount – An undermount sink sits below the counter for a seamless appearance. Counter cleanup is a breeze with this style.
• Top mount – This is also known as a self-rimming sink, and it drops into the counter with the edges resting on top of it.
• Vessel – Usually bowl-shaped, a vessel sink sits on top of the counter.

Mounting OptionsYou also have a choice of several mounting styles:

• Standard/Free-standing – This is the most common type of vanity and has cabinets underneath the sink(s).
• Floating – Also known as a wall-mounted vanity, provides a modern look while opening up floor space.
• Corner – As the name suggests, this vanity is designed to nest into a corner, saving you a lot of space—check to see if your plumbing layout will accommodate this style.

CountertopYou’ll find that some vanities come with a top and some without. If choose one that comes with a top, you’ll have to settle with what you see. Choosing a vanity that doesn’t have a top means you have a choice of countertop color, material, and style. Countertop materials include laminate, granite, quartz, and marble, among others.Vanities are an important part of the bathroom and they contribute in both style and function. Carefully weigh your options and work with an expert to design the right layout for your bathroom.