The extraordinary history of vanity units dates back 260 years.
In 1762, a London-based cabinet maker named Thomas Chippendale made this furniture piece for the first time. Its earliest name was the toylet table. This name evolved to the dressing table and then to the vanity table.
Interestingly, vanity tables were first housed in bedrooms. They were moved to the bathroom when indoor plumbing started in the late nineteenth century.
Despite its widespread use in UK homes, one of the most frequent questions asked in our store is, “What is a vanity unit?” Fortunately, the humble vanity unit is a lot less alien to our customers today than it seems.
A bathroom vanity is a structure that directly supports a washbasin.
In this detailed blog post, you will learn about the following:
- What Is a Vanity Unit?
- What Are the Different Types of Vanity Units?
- Vanity Units for Small Bathrooms
- Vanity Units with Large Storage
- Reasons to Include a Vanity Unit in Your Bathroom
- How to Choose a Vanity Unit?
- How Much Do Bathroom Vanity Units Cost?
Navigate to any section of this post by clicking on the links above.
What Is a Vanity Unit?
Featured in many bathroom installations, a vanity unit combines a washbasin and storage. Though most commonly mistaken for bathroom cabinets, this stylish piece of furniture swaps the traditional basin pedestal for additional storage with a wealth of style and finish options.
Available in both traditional and contemporary styles, vanity units are coupled with a basin in a range of different ways: recessed into the furniture, semi-recessed, sitting on top of the countertop, or encompassing the entire top of the vanity unit.
With so many ways in which the washbasin can be positioned, complementing your suite with a vanity unit is a versatile solution that can fit neatly into a compact space or sit as a focal point in a large family bathroom suite.
Why Is It Called a Vanity Unit?
A vanity unit is called so because it conceals unsightly plumbing lines. You can count on this furniture piece to beautify your bathroom.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines vanity as inflated pride in oneself and something that is vain, empty, or valueless.
Unlike the dictionary definition, a vanity unit isn’t empty or valueless. It serves many useful purposes, storage being the chief one.
But it’s quite possible that homeowners motivated by a desire to show off and gain admiration may opt for expensive, high-end vanity units. This statement piece can quickly draw the attention of guests and visitors alike.
Despite this truth, there’s more to this multi-purpose unit than vanity alone.
What Is a Vanity Unit Used For?
A vanity unit combines a basin and a cupboard.
While a basin is used for washing the face and hands, brushing teeth, and applying makeup, a cupboard is used for storage.
Imagine a medium-sized cupboard with many shelves and drawers. Storing quite a lot of essentials in a vanity unit – razors, shaving cream, shampoo, conditioner, hairdryer, face wash, eye cream, towels, and more becomes easy.
A vanity unit is extremely practical, enabling you to create storage space. The variety of widths and the range of door and drawer options available makes it easy to find the one that matches your style and bathroom decor to perfection.
What Are the Different Types of Vanity Units?
There are primarily two types of vanity units – freestanding and wall-hung.
Freestanding Vanity Units
Freestanding vanity units – also known as floor-standing vanity units – maximise your storage space, providing generous room for toiletries, cleaning essentials, and even towels.
The main advantage of a freestanding vanity unit is that it hides the plumbing lines and presents you with ample storage space to keep your bathroom organised. These vanity units are also sturdier compared to wall-hung vanity units as their entire weight rests on the floor.
With regards to the number of doors or drawers, these square, triangular, or rectangular-shaped units are available in a wide range of options. You can even choose a combination of both.
A large freestanding vanity unit can support two basins, and this design is known as a double basin vanity unit.
Wall-Hung Vanity Units
Wall-hung vanity units – also known as floating vanity units – are securely mounted on the wall. The free floor space beneath the vanity unit presents your bathroom with a contemporary look.
Since the weight of the vanity unit – and the items inside – is borne by the wall, you need to ensure that it is fixed securely.
A major positive aspect is that unlike in freestanding vanity units, you don’t need to worry about water damage as the unit is at a safe height above the floor.
Wall-hung vanity units are ideal for small bathrooms, as they don’t take up any floor space. These vanity units are lighter and less expensive than freestanding vanity units.
Vanity Units for Small Bathrooms
In a small bathroom, an uninterrupted stretch of floor space can create an illusion of more space. With this factor in mind, the following three types of vanity units have been specifically designed for small bathrooms to provide space-saving features:
Cloakroom Vanity Units
While big is beautiful, small can be stunning!
Cloakroom vanity units are miniature-sized compact packages that deliver both style and function. The main feature of these units is that they can make small bathrooms feel bigger.
Some of these units are truly small with a width of 320mm, height of 800mm, and depth of 270mm. But don’t be deceived by its size – this slimline vanity unit comes with a basin and drawers or shelves.
You can choose from our wide and varied collection – single or double door, single or multiple drawers, different colours, freestanding, wall-hung, contemporary, traditional, and a variety of other features.
Corner Vanity Units
Corner vanity units present you with a great option to maximise space.
An effective way to maximise space would be to install a triangular-shaped unit in a regular-shaped bathroom. Alternatively, you can install a rectangular-shaped unit at the intersection of two walls in an irregular-shaped bathroom.
In a small bathroom, a corner vanity unit can provide extra storage space. This centrepiece also adds a distinctive touch, combining style and functionality.
Corner vanity units are ideal for tucking into a corner or an awkward space in a cloakroom or en-suite. These units offer a wealth of storage within their compact dimensions.
With a product like Oliver Corner Fitted Furniture which is designed for wall-to-wall corner installation, you can keep the space organised by concealing toiletries, towels, and other bathroom essentials in its shelves, cabinets, or even drawers.
Combination Vanity Units
Combination vanity units combine three essential bathroom elements: basin, toilet, and storage space. The premium models also include a mirror cabinet.
This striking slimline furniture set is available in various widths and configurations. The chief advantage of this unit is that the built-in cupboard storage reduces the depth of the unit, making it the perfect choice for a small bathroom.
The availability of these units in a wide range of dimensions enables you to choose between a wider basin and narrower toilet area, or vice versa, to suit your bathroom space.
Vanity Units with Large Storage
The measurements and extent of some vanity units are on the large side, providing large storage features. These units are suitable for large bathrooms and are discussed below.
Large Vanity Units
When several family members use one bathroom, there can be a scramble during busy hours. At such times, keeping the bathroom essentials of each person within reach and organised can be a challenge.
Don’t be distressed! A large vanity unit is the right solution.
Large vanity units increase efficiency in your bathroom. Since they offer tonnes of storage space, you can allocate different drawers and shelves so that everyone has a clear-cut place for themselves.
With everything organised and stored separately, any family member can find their things easily. This saves a ton of time even if they are using the space at the same time.
When you allocate space, consider the people who will be in the bathroom together. Keep their things at the opposite ends of the vanity unit so there’s less chance of them getting in each other’s way.
Before you buy, check out different types of large vanity units. And depending on your family’s needs, look for features such as more worktop space, extra large drawers, drawer dividers, and internal lighting for drawers.
Double Sink Vanity Units
Double sink vanity units minimise the scramble during busy periods by allowing two people to use the bathroom simultaneously.
They are, doubtless, a huge boon in shared bathrooms. With two sinks, you’ll never need to brush your teeth in the kitchen sink during “rush hour”.
A double sink presents a great opportunity for two children – and adults – to share the bathroom comfortably. It’s also convenient to have separate His and Hers sink areas and keep the personal grooming things in different sections of the vanity unit.
Other than the practical functionalities, double sink vanity units look more visually impressive. If you are keen on making a statement in your family bathroom, check out our best double sink vanity units.
The large dimension of this unit need not be an issue. You can make it work in your favour by creating a spectacular centrepiece, minimising the amount of wasted space.
As said earlier, the double sink vanity unit also enhances the aesthetics of your bathroom. You can add matching fixtures, such as wall mirrors and gold-plated sink taps, that complement the unit.
Reasons to Include a Vanity Unit in Your Bathroom
Wide Range of Options to Suit Any Bathroom
A vanity unit is the mainstay of your bathroom because it provides order, safety, and comfort.
If you need to add further functionality to your bathroom suite, adding a vanity unit is a great way to complement the storage capabilities and the style of your suite.
In Bathroom City, vanity units are available in a wide range of styles, sizes, and types. Regardless of your bathroom aesthetic, you can easily find one that matches it to perfection.
Adds Imperative Storage Spaces
The primary purpose of a vanity unit is to provide essential storage space in your bathroom. Even a small vanity unit of width 320mm can help you conceal most of the bathroom essentials.
A vanity unit presents you with a practical and easy way to stay organised. Your bathroom will look neat and clean as you can effectively store all the essentials – beauty products, toiletries, spare towels, toilet rolls, and hair dryer – out of sight.
Easy Bathroom Upgrades
The humble vanity unit can make or break the whole aesthetic of your bathroom.
With this highly functional furniture piece, you can define the style of your bathroom and make optimal use of the space under the sink. This unit is not just the focal point of your bathroom. It can also act as a unifying design piece for the entire room.
Therefore, choosing the right vanity unit is an easy way to upgrade the overall look and functionality of your bathroom.
How to Choose a Bathroom Vanity Unit?
When choosing a bathroom vanity unit, regardless of whether you are building a bathroom from scratch or renovating an existing one, you’ll need to follow the steps outlined below.
Step 1: Consider the Bathroom Size
Double-check the length and breadth of your bathroom. Calculate the exact workable space.
The following are some standard vanity sizes (width dimension):
- 320mm
- 400mm
- 500mm
- 600mm
- 950mm
- 1,200mm
- 1,300mm
- 1,500mm
- 1,700mm
Vanity units of many other width dimensions are also available. Evidently, you can use every square centimetre of available space, even if your bathroom is tiny. But look at the size you can realistically accommodate.
Keep in mind your workable space. Don’t pick a vanity unit that’s too large. Also, leave enough space for the door swing – the opening and closing of the door. Ensure that the sink or the countertop doesn’t obstruct the door.
Step 2: Choose the Vanity Unit Type
You have already seen the different types of vanity units.
Firstly, determine which type of vanity unit would suit your bathroom best: freestanding or wall-hung.
If the workable space is somewhat limited, you can opt for a wall-hung vanity unit. But if space isn’t a constraint, you can opt for a freestanding vanity unit.
Once you determine the right type, you can evaluate your options further.
If your bathroom is small, consider the following vanity types: cloakroom vanity unit, corner vanity unit, and combination vanity unit. Pick the vanity unit that would serve your purpose best.
Likewise, if your bathroom is large, you can opt for a large vanity unit. And based on your family’s needs, consider both the single sink unit and the double sink unit.
Step 3: Choose the Right Vanity Unit Style
Depending on the bathroom aesthetic you desire, you can decide on the vanity unit style: traditional or modern.
If you want your bathroom to exude class and elegance, then a traditional vanity unit would be the right choice.
These units generally feature wood-finish panelled doors, ornamental handles, and a floorstanding design.
But if you want to create a beautiful, relaxing, and minimalist bathroom, then a modern vanity unit would be a better choice. These compact units occupy minimal space yet make a bold statement.
Step 4: Pay Attention to the Colours
The colour of your vanity unit is a huge factor. For example, if you want to create a timeless look, you can choose a grey vanity unit.
Opt for a colour that either matches or complements the existing colour scheme. Make sure that the colour you choose also matches the bathroom style.
Step 5: Consider the Style of Other Furniture Elements
A strong bathroom design will not only look attractive but also function seamlessly.
The vanity unit should coordinate well with the other elements in your bathroom. So make sure it blends well with the other existing furniture elements.
Smaller spaces also benefit massively from the careful placement of a vanity unit. A compact vanity unit oozes contemporary vogue with its minimalist styling and ultra-versatile design.
There are a few other things to consider when choosing a vanity unit, as well.
How Much Do Bathroom Vanity Units Cost?
The price range of vanity units we sell is truly vast.
In Bathroom City, the base model starts at £98, while the most expensive premium model costs £3,568.
In between this huge range, you can find value-for-money vanity units at virtually every price point. We assure you that you will find a vanity unit that suits your budget and enhances your bathroom aesthetic.
All the vanity units we sell are manufactured by reputed brands and come with extended guarantees. So you can simply install one and forget about it.
For a detailed breakdown of bathroom vanity unit costs and to explore various options, check out our comprehensive guide on How Much Do Bathroom Vanity Units Cost.
Shop Bathroom Vanity Units
At Bathroom City, you can pick from our huge selection of vanity units – the choice is truly mind-boggling. You can choose from a wide range of precision-crafted, fitted vanity units. Regardless of your bathroom size – whether it’s ultra-small or ultra-large – we have you covered.
Other related articles you might also like to read: