When you design a bathroom, you do not only worry about tiles, taps, and lighting; you create a space that is functional and stylish and that works for your everyday life. At the heart of your functional yet modern bathroom sits vanity units: a piece of furniture that brings ultimate practicality with design flair in your bathroom. It not only provides essential storage to your bathroom but also supports your basin.
While upgrading your bathroom, you have to understand different types of vanity units before making your decision. It should fulfill all of your storage needs and look amazing at the same time. Leading UK supplier Royale Stones offers a wide variety of types, sizes, and finishes to suit your bathroom interior. We help you balance aesthetics with durability!
In this guide, we will explore types of vanity units, their pros and cons, and design inspirations. At the end, you will be able to choose the best vanity unit for your bathroom.
Let’s dive in!
Importance of Vanity Units in Modern Bathrooms
Let’s get this straight: Vanity units are not just for the vanity! You get much more than just the looks. Below are some of the most prominent functions and benefits of vanity units.
Functions
- When you upgrade from just a sink to a vanity unit, you get tons of storage for your toiletries, cleaning products, and daily essential items.
- It provides the base for your sink, or sinks if you live in a family home and want a double unit.
- It defines a design focal point that ties your bathroom decor together.
Benefits of Vanity Units
- Vanity units maximise your space in any small bathroom.
- It hides the unpleasant sights of plumbing and piping.
- It provides a sleek and clean look to your bathroom.
- They are available in endless designs suiting your bathroom aesthetics.
Main Types of Bathroom Vanity Units
Here are the main bathroom vanity units you need to know before purchasing one. You must be aware of all of their features, suitability, and advantages in order to make the perfect choice.
Floor-Standing Vanity Units with Basin
Floor-standing vanity units are one of the most traditional and commonly used vanity units across the UK.
Features of Floor Standing Vanity Units
- They are fixed directly onto your bathroom floor.
- They include a decent amount of built-in storage space.
- They have an integrated basin on top of it.
Best for
They are ideal for medium to large bathrooms.
Advantages
- Floor-standing vanity units are stable and sturdy.
- They usually come with more storage than other types.
- They are easier to install than wall-hung options
Freestanding Vanity Units
Freestanding vanity units are mostly considered and resemble a piece of furniture that stands independently. They are a very versatile option for your bathroom.
Features of Freestanding Vanity Units
- They do not need wall mounting.
- They can be placed almost anywhere in your bathroom, depending on your bathroom layout.
Best For
They are best for bathrooms that have flexible layouts.
Advantages
- Free-standing bathroom vanity units are easy to move and reposition.
- They are widely chosen for traditional and contemporary bathroom designs.
- They are added as a statement piece in modern and classic bathrooms.
Vanity Cabinet with Basin
A vanity unit with a countertop basin is a straightforward, practical, and all-in-one solution for your bathroom. In this piece, a basin is integrated into the vanity unit.
Features of Vanity Units with Basin
- They have a lot of storage space
- You do not need to spend money on the basin separately.
- You save space by combining the sink with your storage.
Best For
They are ideal options for small bathrooms and guest toilets.
Advantages of a Vanity Unit with Basin
- They are space-saving.
- You get a streamlined look in your bathroom.
- They are easy to clean and maintain.
Wall-Hung Vanity Units
Wall-hung or floating bathroom vanities are a modern solution for small bathrooms or modern bathrooms that need to create a cleaner floor space. It is where your unit is mounted onto the wall.
Features of Wall-Hung Vanity Unit
- They create a floating effect in your bathroom.
- Wall hung vanity units leave the space clean beneath.
Best For
They are the best vanity units for small bathrooms in the UK or contemporary and minimalistic interiors.
Advantages of Wall Mount Vanity Unit
- They make your small bathroom look larger.
- They provide a minimalistic and clean look.
- They allow you to clean your floor easily without any mess.
Vanity Unit Without Basin
If you want to make your bathroom customised, this vanity unit will let you do just that! It allows you to choose your own sink style and placement to make it yours.
Features of Vanity Units Without Basin
- It has storage only (the cabinet).
- You will need to buy your basin separately.
Best For
These modern vanity units are best for fully customised bathroom projects.
Advantages of a Vanity Unit Without Basin
- You get 100% design flexibility.
- You can mix and match your countertop basins with these vanity units.
- Vanity units without basins are ideal for luxury bathrooms, offering a sleek and minimalist look.
Bathroom Vanity Units
This is a broad category that covers all designs: traditional, modern, and customised.
Features of Vanity Units for Bathrooms
They are available in below finishes:
- Wood
- Laminate
- MDF
- Solid Surfaces
Best for
These vanity units are best all bathroom types, but it depends on the design of your bathroom.
Advantages of Bathroom Vanity Units
- These vanity units are available in a huge variety.
- They are suitable for all budgets
- You can style these vanity units to match the decor of your bathroom.
Double Sink Vanity Unit
Double sink vanity units for family bathrooms are considered a huge upgrade in any bathroom. They are a luxury option, having two sinks side by side.
Features of Double Sink Vanity Units
- They have dual sinks
- They can have shared or separate storage options
Best for
They are best for large family bathrooms or a couple’s space.
Advantages of a Double Vanity Unit
- They save your time during busy mornings.
- They add a high-end look to your bathrooms.
- The double vanity unit offers a personal space for each user.
Pro-Tip: Here are some of the most popular types of double sink vanity units you can explore: 5 Double Sink Vanity Units for Your Family Bathroom
Corner Vanity Unit
Corner vanity units for compact bathrooms are a space-saving solution. It is designed to fit into the corners of your bathroom.
Features of Corner Vanity Unit
These space-saving vanity units come in a triangular or angled design.
Best for
They are best for compact bathrooms, cloakrooms, or awkward bathroom layouts.
Advantages
- They make the unused corners of use.
- They maximise your storage space in tight spaces.
- They are compact and stylish at the same time.
Slimline Vanity Unit
Designers were at the peak of their creativity when they designed slimline vanity units for cloakrooms and small bathrooms. It is a narrow-depth unit that is designed for compact spaces.
Features of Slimline Vanity Unit
- They are slim built
- They reduce projection in bathrooms.
- They can be integrated with toilets
Best for
They are ideal for cloakrooms, en-suites, or narrow bathrooms.
Advantages of Slimline Vanity Unit
- They can fit into any small space.
- They still offer some storage space.
- They maintain a sleek look.
Custom-Made Vanity Unit
Custom-Made Vanity Units are designed according to your exact specifications. They are designed just for you.
Features of Custom-Made Vanity Unit
They are fully tailored according to:
- Your bathroom size.
- Vanity unit finish you want.
- Basin of your choice.
Best for
These vanity units are best for homes seeking unique and luxurious bathrooms.
Advantages of a Custom-Made Vanity Unit
- They give the maximum design flexibility.
- They fit perfectly in your unusual bathroom layouts.
- They can match your overall bathroom design effortlessly.
Bathroom Vanity Unit Design Inspiration Ideas
Here are some of the most trending design inspiration ideas for vanity units.
- Pair with Mirror and Lighting: Add a backlit mirror and a double mirror for double vanity units for a luxury touch.
- Floating units for a Minimalistic Look: Pair your floating vanities with soft LED lights underneath for a modern finish.
- Matching Taps and Sinks: Use brass or black taps with matching hardware for a designer finish.
- Coordinating with Bathroom Decor: Match your bathroom vanity unit finish with your bathroom floor tiles and wall colour for a cohesive look.
Popular Materials for Vanity Units
Some of the most popular materials for traditional and modern vanity units that UK homeowners prefer are:
- MDF or Laminate: They are affordable, moisture-resistant, and versatile.
- Solid Wood: They are traditional bathroom vanities: classic, durable, and add warmth to your bathroom. But they are expensive compared to some of the other options.
- Ceramic Tops: They are easy to maintain and provide a timeless charm to your bathroom.
- Quartz or Stone Countertops: They look luxurious and are very durable and scratch-resistant.
Vanity Unit Maintenance and Cleaning Tips
You do not install your vanity units and forget about them, just like you do not have to spend a lot of time maintaining them. You just need the right tip to save time, money, and have a cleaner bathroom space. Here are some of the most useful tips for maintaining a clean bathroom:
- For wooden units, wipe the spills immediately so that you can prevent them from swelling.
- For ceramic countertops, clean with cruelty-free products to avoid scratches.
- Quartz or Stone Tops need mild cleaners. Avoid using acidic solutions on them.
- Always ensure to keep your bathroom airy and ventilated to reduce moisture buildup.
Mistakes to Avoid While Choosing a Vanity Unit
Want to choose the perfect vanity units for bathroom? Avoid these mistakes and you will be good to go!
- Choosing the wrong size vanity unit for your bathroom: too large or too small.
- Forgetting about your plumbing location and clearance space in your bathroom.
- Selecting materials that are not suited for your wet environment. For example, choosing a wooden vanity unit near your shower space.
- Ignoring your storage needs in the bathroom. For example, choosing modern bathroom storage units with a low space in your family bathroom.
- Compromising on the quality of your installation. Mkar it professionally fitted and enjoy your bathroom vanity unit for decades to come!
Conclusion
The vanity unit that you choose for your bathroom can make or break the bathroom design. You have options from floor staning to floating styles, you just need to carefully choose the best one for yourself. While choosing one, consider your storage requirements, space layout, and style preferences alongside your budget.
With a wide variety of options from Royale Stones UK, you can find the perfect vanity unit to balance everything: beauty, practicality, and long-term durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many types of vanity are there?
Seven main types: freestanding, with and without basin, wall-hung, double, corner, and slimline options.
What are the three main types of sinks?
Undermount, drop-in, and vessel sinks. Each can be paired with different vanity units depending on the bathroom design preferences.
Which is better, a ceramic or porcelain sink?
Porcelain is slightly denser and more durable than ceramic, while ceramic is more affordable but equally stylish.
What type of bathroom vanity is best?
Depends on your needs. If you have a small space, go for wall-hung. If you have families, double units. If you want design flexibility, a freestanding vanity unit is the best.
What is a floating vanity?
Another term for a wall-hung vanity unit: mounted on the wall, leaving space beneath and creating a modern and spacious effect.