A bathroom vanity is an essential component of any bathroom design. It is the focal point that serves as a practical storage solution for toiletries and other bathroom essentials. It also sets the tone for the overall look and feel of the space.
There is a wide range of sizes, styles, materials, and finishes to choose from. Bathroom vanities can be customized to suit any design aesthetic. Choose from a sleek and modern look or a more traditional and ornate feel.
By updating your bathroom vanity, you can add value to your home as well as personalize the area to a style of your choice. Read more to learn about the history of the bathroom vanity and options that might suit you.
THE ORIGIN OF THE BATHROOM VANITY
Before the luxury of private bathrooms, people would share communal outhouses, have chamberpots, or simply dig a hole in the ground. It wasn’t until the 11th century that bathrooms were integrated into the architecture. Many castles featured “garderobes,” which were the early variations of the modern toilet. It offered a straight shoot area built into the castle that dropped waste to a lower-level waste pit.
The need for modern bathrooms didn’t take root until the Victorian era when cultural ideals of cleanliness began to change. Washstands became more common and were placed in bedrooms. They were commonly made of wood and featured a bowl and a pitcher of water placed on top to wash your face or hands. These washstands are the predecessor of modern bathroom vanities as we know them today.
Evidently, bathroom vanities are a reasonably new invention in human history. Today, with modern plumbing technology and design, we get the luxury of choosing the ideal design for our bathroom vanities.
TYPES OF MATERIAL TO CHOOSE
These days, bathroom vanities commonly have a wooden storage base with some sort of stone or easy-to-clean material slabbed on top.
Wooden bathroom vanities are a popular choice for their natural beauty and warmth. They come in a range of wood types, including oak, maple, walnut, and teak. Wood vanities can be stained or painted to match your bathroom décor. Natural, light wood can add a rustic or traditional look to your space.
Engineered wood is a more affordable alternative to solid wood vanities. It is made from wood fibers and resins that are pressed together, resulting in a material that is strong and durable.
Engineered wood is common in mass production today. The vanities can mimic the look of natural wood but are less susceptible to warping and cracking due to moisture. It is perfect for creating a rustic bathroom vanity.
Metal vanities are modern and sleek. They are often made from stainless steel, brass, or aluminum and offer an industrial appearance. Metal vanities are resistant to water damage, easy to clean, and can be affordable.
Glass vanities are elegant and sophisticated. They can create a dramatic effect in your bathroom. They are available in clear or frosted glass and can be mounted on a metal or wooden base. Glass vanities can make a small bathroom feel more spacious by reflecting light.
The most common material used for countertops is probably stone vanities, such as marble, granite, and quartz. This material is luxurious and durable. They are resistant to scratches, stains, and heat and can add a sense of opulence to your bathroom. Stone vanities require little maintenance and last for many years.
For the bathroom sink of the vanity, porcelain is a standard choice. It is easy to clean and durable. To add a unique touch, there is also marble and other types of stone.
Overall, the type of materials you choose for your bathroom vanity will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and the overall design aesthetic of your space.
ANTIQUE TO MODERN TYPES OF BATHROOM VANITY STYLES
Antique bathroom vanity hardware can be an elegant addition to your bathroom vanity. These Victorian-style cross handles are a signature design of the time and remain in style. You can find many reproductions to add to your bathroom.
This luxury Victorian pedestal sink design features brass hardware and a porcelain basin. Pairing this with a wall-mount mirror and woven storage baskets under the sink can create a unique yet sophisticated look. It is perfect for smaller bathrooms.
Mid-century modern design is coming back. It is a timeless style that offers warmth to any space because of the colors and type of light wood used. This wood bathroom vanity features MCM’s signature tapered legs. A circular mirror contrasts the clean, straight lines of the countertop wonderfully.
This minimalist, floating vanity for bathrooms is a staple of modern design. This white bathroom vanity features floating cabinets and shelves with a rectangular mirror that elongates the room.
The vessel sink mimics the style of old washstands. This particular double vanity offers great counter space.
Painted styles for your bathroom vanity cabinet add a fun splash of color. This double sink is perfect for couples, offering sufficient storage space underneath. A sage green cabinet with gold accents is an exciting modern choice for your bathroom.
COMPLEMENTARY PRODUCTS
After putting so much thought into your bathroom design, don’t let unsightly light switches and receptacles take away from it. Lider’s mission is to provide the perfect finishing touches to your design. Our elegant line of screwless wall plates will surely integrate into your space perfectly, without taking away from the design.
Shop our expanding catalog of products to find aesthetically pleasing solutions for your electrical needs.