Choosing the Right Vanity for Your Bathroom
When it comes to bathroom renovations, the vanity is one of the most important elements you’ll choose. It’s not just a functional feature—it’s also a central design piece that can make or break the style and usability of the space. Whether you’re updating a small ensuite or planning a luxurious main bathroom, here’s how to find the right vanity for your needs.
1. Measure Your Space First
Before falling in love with a specific style, be sure to measure your available space accurately. Consider how much room you’ll have in front of the vanity for opening drawers and cabinet doors. Leave enough clearance between the vanity and nearby elements like the toilet or shower.
Tip: In tight bathrooms, a corner or floating vanity can open up the space.
2. Think About Your Storage Needs
A clutter-free bathroom starts with smart storage. If your household uses the bathroom daily for skincare, grooming, and storage of cleaning products, choose a vanity with drawers, shelves, or a combination of both.
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Drawers work well for smaller items like makeup and razors.
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Cupboards are better for bulkier items like towels and toilet rolls.
Floating vanities can be stylish and modern but often sacrifice some storage, so make sure it fits your lifestyle.
3. Choose the Right Sink Style
The sink type can influence both the function and the look of your vanity. Here are your main options:
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Integrated sinks: Sleek and easy to clean, as the sink and counter are all one piece.
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Undermount sinks: Sit below the counter and offer a clean look.
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Vessel sinks: Sit on top of the vanity for a bold, modern statement.
Make sure the sink pairs well with your tapware—especially in terms of height and water flow.
4. Match Your Style & Finish
Your vanity should complement the overall style of your bathroom. Whether you lean toward rustic, contemporary, or classic design, there’s a vanity style to match:
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Modern bathrooms: Look for clean lines, flat-panel doors, and neutral colours like white, grey, or black.
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Traditional bathrooms: Consider raised-panel doors, warm woods, or decorative handles.
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Transitional bathrooms: Mix modern fixtures with timeless cabinetry.
The finish matters, too. Matte, gloss, woodgrain, and stone all bring different visual textures to the space.
5. Don’t Forget the Practical Bits
Finally, make sure your chosen vanity ticks the boxes for real-life functionality:
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Plumbing compatibility
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Moisture-resistant materials
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Soft-close drawers and doors
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Easy-to-clean surfaces
Need Help Choosing the Perfect Vanity?
At Aidan Kelly Construction, we help homeowners across Carlow, Wexford, Wicklow, Kildare, Kilkenny, and Laois make smart design decisions that look great and last. If you’re planning a bathroom renovation and want expert guidance, we’re here to help.
