Elevate Your Space with Vanities for Small Bathrooms
With smaller homes on the rise, especially in space-conscious urban areas, choosing vanities for small bathrooms that still allow your space to feel open and inviting can be a daunting task. To streamline your decision-making, we’ve compiled a list of various small sinks and vanities for small bathrooms worth considering, along with clever storage solutions to help you maximise your limited space.
Types of Vanities for Small Bathrooms
When choosing between different types of vanities for small bathrooms, you should first consider the layout of your space. If you’re renovating, you may be limited to the choices of bathroom vanity; however, if you’re building a new bathroom, you can prioritise the placement of your vanity to make the most of your space.
Wall Hung Vanities for Small Bathrooms
A wall hung vanity, often referred to as a ‘floating’ vanity, is one of the most practical vanity designs for small bathrooms. By keeping the floor open and uncluttered, it creates the illusion of a larger space. Wall-hung vanities can easily fit into unconventional spots like between baths and toilets, offering a sleek, minimalist look while maintaining a sense of openness.
Freestanding Vanities for Small Bathrooms
A freestanding vanity is a stand-alone piece of furniture that can be easily adapted into a vanity for small bathrooms. You can create one from almost anything, making it a budget-friendly choice that doesn't require professional installation like a floating vanity, other than for plumbing requirements. It's also a great way to infuse character into your space, as you can repurpose old furniture from vintage stores. You can also customise a freestanding vanity to fit into awkward spaces, making it an ideal solution for bathrooms with unusual layouts.
L-Shaped Vanities for Small Bathrooms
An L-shaped vanity for small bathrooms are a great option if you’re looking for space-saving bathroom vanities. By tucking it between two walls, L-shaped vanities provide ample storage and countertop surface without encroaching on the room's limited floor space. This design also helps create a more open feel, enhancing flow while maintaining functionality and accessibility.
Best Vanities for Small Bathrooms: Single vs Double Vanity
A single vanity is a unit designed for one basin, making it the best type of vanity designs for small bathrooms or powder rooms. In contrast, a double vanity accommodates two basins and offers ample countertop space, making it perfect for simultaneous use by multiple individuals, especially in larger families— however, these are recommended for larger bathrooms.
How big should a vanity for a small bathroom be?
When selecting a vanity for a small bathroom, size plays a crucial role in achieving both practicality and style. A vanity width of 600mm to 900mm is generally ideal for compact spaces, providing enough storage while allowing for comfortable movement around the bathroom.
For depth, a vanity measuring between 450mm and 500mm works well, offering a good balance of surface area without dominating the room. Standard heights for vanities are typically around 800mm, but you might consider a slightly lower or higher option to better suit your needs.
Ultimately, the best size for your vanity will depend on your bathroom’s layout and your personal preferences, so be sure to measure your space thoroughly before making a choice.
How much does a small vanity cost?
The cost of a small vanity varies based on the brand, materials, and quality. For example, at ABI Interiors, our selection of vanities measuring 900mm and under range from $799.90 to $1,299.90.
If you’re working with a strict budget, there are more affordable options on the market, such as repurposing a second-hand vanity or turning vintage furniture into a vanity — both of which are also environmentally conscious.
Types of Small Vanity Sinks for Bathrooms
Overmount Vanity Sink
An overmount sink, also known as a top mount sink, is a basin that sits visibly above the countertop. This includes sinks that rest fully on the surface or are placed in a pre-cut opening, with the rim resting on and supported by the countertop. Overmount sinks are ideal for smaller spaces, such as recycled freestanding vanities, as they don’t require heavy-duty materials for support. They rest on top, simplifying installation by eliminating the need for cutouts or complex fittings.
Undermount Vanity Sink
Undermount sinks are installed beneath the countertop with no exposed rim, creating a seamless, uniform look. Secured with brackets or adhesive, they are ideal for maximising countertop space; however, they do require ample cabinet space for plumbing and housing the sink, making them less ideal if storage is a priority over countertop space.
Wall-Mounted or Pedestal Vanity Sinks
If you’re really short on space and storage isn’t a priority, such as in a powder room, opt for smaller wall hung or pedestal sinks. With so many variations in style available, wall-hung and pedestal basins allow you to express your creativity without taking up valuable floor space.
Small vanities often lack bench and cabinet space, so maximising storage elsewhere in the room is key. Consider adding floating or built-in shelves or a vertical narrow vanity unit to take advantage of wall space. If your vanity doesn't have drawers, use baskets underneath to keep items organised while adding texture to the room, preventing a stark, closed-off look.
If you want more hidden storage, consider a mirrored medicine cabinet for smaller essentials, and install hand towel rails on the side of your vanity to reduce wall clutter.
Thoughtfully selecting vanities for small bathrooms can make all the difference in both style and practicality. From sleek, wall-mounted vanities to charming freestanding designs, there’s a variety of bathroom vanity ideas for small bathrooms that’ll suit your space!
Need further inspiration for your small bathroom? Check out these blogs:
Small Bathroom Ideas On a Budget