26 bathroom vanity ideas for a chic-meets-functional design

Your bathroom vanity ideas are some of the most important in your design. It has to marry functionality and beauty in one, especially if it's the main focal point in your space.

We often talk about the best places to buy bathroom vanities that are of beautiful quality, look chic, and include plenty of storage, but what about how they work as part of your bathroom ideas? It's just as important as the vanity as a single furniture piece, and something designers say you should spend time considering.

So, how can you ensure your bathroom vanity is not only timeless and functional, but also works seamlessly in your scheme? Here are a few designer-approved ideas that experts always return to, from countertops and materials to fit and size.

26 bathroom vanity ideas that are as functional as they are stylish

When designing a bathroom vanity, think about the practicalities – how your vanity will work day to day – as well as its aesthetics. Striking the right balance between these two elements will make for a long-lasting, functional design that you will love.

From floor-standing to floating, wall-hung to double and single vanity designs, using a stylish vanity unit can beautifully transform the look and feel of your bathroom and your day-to-day rituals.

1. Zone your vanity with wall paneling

Especially in large bathrooms, zoning different areas can help to give the room structure, rather than feeling like a vast space. In this space, bathroom wall paneling has been used to zone the vanity area, creating a warmer, more inviting feel.

'We took a carefully considered approach to updating the vanity wall, aiming to create maximum impact with minimal disruption and a measured budget. The transformation centerd around the introduction of a bespoke warm oak vanity unit, which softens the cool tones of the existing marble tiles and adds a sense of warmth and balance to the space,' says Chloe Will, founder of Interiors by Chloe.

'To bring further texture and interest, we designed the vanity drawers with tongue and groove paneling, a detail that not only brightens the room but also echoes the wall panelling behind as well as the characterful exposed trusses in the adjoining bedroom.'

2. Pair a marble sink with dark tiles for a moody design

A successful bathroom vanity is about the whole area, not just the sink basin or vanity unit. In this bathroom, a beautiful marble sink was introduced, so dark tiles were added to the walls the allow the stone to stand out.

'This bathroom was all about embracing drama in a restrained and considered way. We used a deep teal tile, glossy and richly pigmented, to wrap the lower half of the walls,' explains interior designer Christopher Boutlier.

'The horizontal stack keeps it feeling tailored and modern, while the subtle contrast of light grout adds dimension without pulling focus. Above, a textured wallcovering introduces softness and depth. It helps ground the space and gives the room a slightly dressed-up, almost tailored feel, which I love in small spaces like this.'

3. Mix materials for a timeless look

Your bathroom vanity is the perfect place to add a bit more fun to your design. You don't have the same functional restrictions that you do in a shower area, for example. And introducing a mix of materials is a great way to add interest and a sense of luxury.

'In this bathroom project, we selected a solid oak vanity with a marble top. This pairing brought together the natural warmth of timber with the freshness and refinement of marble,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.

'Combining materials is an effective way to introduce texture and contrast in a bathroom. The oak added depth and character, while the marble helped to keep the space feeling clean and uplifting. The vanity also provided generous storage, which was key to maintaining a sense of calm by keeping everyday items neatly out of sight.'

4. Embrace the wooden vanity revival

Should you use wood in a bathroom? If this space is anything to go by, the answer is yes. Wood is making its way back into our homes, and your bathroom vanity ideas are a timeless way to introduce it to your wash space. To make it more interesting, add textured profiles to the doors.

'In this project, we designed an oak vanity with fluted detailing on the doors. This subtle texture added softness to the space and introduced a handcrafted feel,' explains Lauren. 'Thoughtful details such as door profiles and carefully considered hardware can completely transform a room. These smaller elements often become quiet focal points and contribute significantly to the overall design,' she adds.

5. Embrace the beauty of brass

We often consider only two options when it comes to our bathroom sink – a full vanity unit or a simple pedestal sink. But why not opt for something more decorative, like the custom brass stand in the scheme?

'My favorite feature is the custom sink stand we designed for the Waterworks Sten vessel sink. With its light brass frame, the sink appears to float in the space,' explains interior designer Azali Kassum. 'A traditional vanity or console would have overwhelmed the room as well as the doorway. Older homes, like this one, often present these types of spatial challenges. Finding a creative solution resulted in a magical moment for this powder room.'

6. Cater to the height of your bathroom

Every bathroom is different, so it's important to design a vanity that fits the dimensions of your room. For example, if you have tall ceilings, consider the proportions and how you can tailor your design to feel in keeping with them.

'This primary bathroom vanity is unique because it was designed to address the needs of taller homeowners. We custom-built it at 39” paired with 12-foot ceilings and super tall mirrors to make the space feel both luxurious and functional,' explains interior designer Bambi A'Lynn Bratton.

This approach prevents the room from feeling too open and cold, and gives a sense of grandeur rather than empty, forgotten space above eye level.

7. Add a sense of luxury with an vanity island

Kitchen islands have become commonplace in designs, but what about bathroom islands? They are a luxurious addition, and the perfect place to locate a vanity if you lack usable wall space.

In this bathroom by Marie Flanigan, a vanity island sits at the center of the room, becoming the ultimate getting-ready spot. Marble waterfall countertops and a luxe finish, while ceiling-mounted mirrors and lighting add a sculptural finish.

8. Upcycle vintage furniture into a vanity

Vintage bathroom ideas have plenty to offer for a characterful space, but one of the best ways to introduce something old to your space is to repurpose old furniture into a bathroom vanity.

'In this space, an old wooden sideboard has been repurposed as a vanity unit, providing generous storage and a natural warmth that sits well in a home setting, which is a cottage,' says Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs.

'The visible grain and aged finish add interest without dominating the scheme, and the freestanding format works neatly under the eaves.'

9. Mix design styles for an eye-catching vanity area

No room has to be restricted to one design aesthetic. In fact, mixing different styles and eras is a great way to create a stylish and unique design. In this bathroom, a more modern vanity has been paired with a vintage-inspired wallpaper.

'The vanity had to feel refined and modern, but without encroaching on the flow of the room. We chose a streamlined, almost sculptural basin that sits lightly on a slender bronze frame, so although it spans a generous width, it doesn’t feel bulky,' explains Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms.

'That clean-lined silhouette plays beautifully against the richness of the wallpaper and the irregularities of the period architecture - the sloped ceiling, the original leaded window. It doesn’t try to mimic the traditional detailing; instead, it offsets it. That push and pull between old and new is what brings the space to life.'

10. Pick the right size and shape vanity for your room

The style and shape of your vanity will primarily be defined by the size and shape of your bathroom. For a large spacious master bathroom, a double vanity makes for the perfect star attraction, while smaller cloakroom ideas will require a more compact, petite design.

‘There are so many options for bathroom vanities, depending on the look you want to achieve. This bathroom is defined by its narrow profile, so it was important to find a piece that would work well in the space. Opting for this modern design, which is on legs rather than cabinetry and a minimalist white countertop, makes the room appear brighter and airier,’ explains Kristina Phillips, of Kristina Phillips Interior Design.

11. Opt for a floating basin in small bathrooms

If you’re trying to figure out the perfect bathroom vanity ideas for a small bathroom design, then a wall-hanging unit is the perfect piece. Creating the illusion of more space, is exposes the flooring beneath – this emphasizes the footprint of the room while also showing off even more of your elegant bathroom flooring.

'A floating vanity creates the illusion of more space when the floor is exposed –especially if combined with hidden pipes and a wall-mounted faucet. What's possible with a vanity depends on existing plumbing and whether the pipes are being floor-mounted or wall-mounted. It’s important to discuss with your plumber what's possible first and then source a vanity that fits your design vision,' said Jameelah Davis and Ebonee Clark, co-founders of Lauren Wesley Designs.

12. Pay attention to your countertop material

The countertop material is a vital component of your bathroom vanity ideas. Taking up a significant portion of the room, it will play a significant role in setting the tone and atmosphere for the room.

As such, your bathroom countertop ideas are an as important part of your bathroom vanity ideas as the base on which it stands. After all, you will see a lot more of the countertop than you will the drawers or legs beneath.

‘We're seeing more organic materials in bathroom design. Stone, concrete, and even teak are becoming luxury chic in bathrooms. It’s a simple design element, but it gives the bathroom a finished feel,’ explains Lance Thomas of Thomas Guy Interiors.

13. Maximize awkward spaces by installing a fitted vanity

Bathrooms are traditionally the smallest room of the house and as such have to make the most of the available space. As such, every nook and cranny has a valuable role in your bathroom design.

Here, a small corner of the bathroom has been utilised to house a fitted vanity complete with a marble countertop and upstand. It has been paired with statement wall lights and a mirror to create a compact space which is just as functional as larger bathroom vanity ideas

14. Use your vanity to add block color to your space

If you have a minimalist bathroom decorated in a monochrome scheme, then your vanity offers the perfect opportunity to add more bathroom color ideas to your room, like in this bathroom.

The beautiful cornflower blue vanity has a symmetrical design that suits the clean lines of the room while also bringing color and character to the space. The vanity is accentuated with black brassware which ties the new piece in with the existing taps, door knob and light fixtures.

15. Give your bathroom a lifestyle aesthetic with a dresser inspired vanity

We are seeing a huge trend for bathroom vanities that look more like a chic dresser. They are an ideal design if you want your space to feel more elegant. ‘A great way to refresh a tired bathroom is to opt for a vanity that looks like furniture, such as this dresser-inspired vanity,’ says interior designer Kristina Phillips.

'Opt for a design that extends to the side wall to ensure the maximum amount of usable counter space. Adding a mirror wall with sconces mounted above the vanity ensures plenty of reflected light.'

16. Add a curtain for cottage charm

Nothing creates a laid-back cottage feel like floral prints – whether that's as part of cottage kitchens ideas or cottage bathroom ideas. Whether you're working around a small footprint or simply want to add more character, replacing your vanity doors with curtains is a charming choice.

‘All the hard surfaces of a bathroom can create quite a clinical feel, so we like to bring in fabric and color where we can to add softness and warmth,’ says interior designer Sarah Vanrenen. ‘Here, a pretty chintz curtain hangs from a scalloped frame, concealing plenty of bathroom storage.’

17. Maximize vanity storage for a minimalist bathroom aesthetic

As it's often the smallest room of the house, bathroom space is at a premium and therefore it is vital that your bathroom vanity ideas, and with it your bathroom storage ideas, work for you.

'You have to maximize every inch of space you have in the bathroom,' says designer Mel Bean, who designed the bathroom above. 'Adding mirrors and vertical sconces creates the illusion of more space. Built-in cabinetry and a multi-drawered vanity add function as well as sleek design so you can keep the counters free of clutter.'

18. Capitalize on your vanity's elegance with bathroom lighting

In order for your vanity unit to be well-lit and functional for use at all times of day, planning in lighting designs beside your mirrors is essential. With so many beautiful bathroom lighting ideas to choose from, why not make a statement with your vanity lighting?

These traditionally inspired gold and glass wall lights create an eye-catching focal point in the room. Positioned above the mirror helps to maximize the illumination provided by the lights – a great option for bathroom lighting ideas over mirrors.

19. Organize your bathroom with two single vanities

Great for master bathroom ideas, using two single vanity units can make a bathroom feel more organized, spacious, and distinguished. It can also lead to more creative freedom when decorating and styling the unit, making it completely your own.

In this bathroom, the two single vanities are positioned close together to establish a vanity zone in the bathroom, however, by using two separate units, it makes the area feel more spacious, ideal for when there is more than one person occupying the bathroom.

20. Play with symmetry with perfectly spaced basins, mirrors and lights

In most bathrooms, the vanity is the first feature you see, especially if it sits at the center of the room. So, to ensure your vanity feels aesthetically pleasing, think about embracing symmetrical design with your accessories.

'A symmetrically designed vanity unit helps create a calming sense of balance. Take the symmetry up a level with perfectly spaced mirrors and wall-mounted bathroom lighting ideas, as shown above,' says Irene Gunter, director at Gunter & Co.

'This approach helps zone the unit, giving each user their own clearly defined wash-space. We like to allow at least 5 inches between basins to provide sufficient elbow room for two to use comfortably.'

21. Choose undermounted basins for an understated, minimalist look  

Attached to the underside of the countertop, under-mounted basins offer a sleek, minimalist look.

'While under-mounted basins can be more costly upfront due to more complex installation, you will reap the rewards when it comes to cleanliness,' says Jamie Blake, creative director of Blakes London.

There’s no raised lip or rim where dirt and bacteria might collect, and a clean lined surface is far easier to wipe down.

22. Go for a custom-made vanity for a truly unique look

There’s no excuse for disorder in the bathroom with custom-made bathroom vanity ideas. With this approach, you can ensure your vanity not only perfectly fits the space, but also caters precisely to your needs.

‘This bespoke vanity is an organizational dream. We ensured specific places for everything the owners use, with drawers configured to accommodate specific product dimensions,’ says Jo Aynsley, head of interior design at Jeffreys Interiors.

'Practically speaking, fitted furniture is low maintenance as there are no dust traps and it offers a range of small bathroom storage ideas in the available space, too.’

23. Create a stand out space with a bold countertop color

A vanity unit is one of the central features in a bathroom, so get creative and bold with color and material to create a standout design. And nothing makes a stylish statement quite like a colorful marble.

Embracing marble bathroom ideas can be both beautiful and incredibly durable. As shown here in this bathroom from Kate Moss’s Cotswold home, the stunning green Verde Guatemala marble creates a truly show-stopping design, a beautiful example of green bathroom ideas.

24. Keep the floor clear to increase the sense of space

In cases where you've opted for quite a large bathroom vanity, especially in the case of double sink designs, it's important to consider ways to make it feel less bulky. And creating open floor space is a great solution.

‘Double vanity units are naturally larger than single, so it’s important to boost the sense of space even if your actual space is limited,’ says Yosuef Mansuri, head of design, C.P. Hart.

‘Revealing as much floor as possible is a smart small bathroom idea, as it gives the impression of a larger room, so opt for a vanity that is either wall-mounted or on slim legs to give a feeling of openness.’

25. Mix metals for a playful finish

Mixing metals is a controversial topic, especially when it comes to hardware. But it's a great way to create visual interest and an unexpected contrast – and this bathroom vanity makes a strong case for it.

The statement vanity lighting has a mix of black and brass finishes, which adds a sense of elegance without overwhelming the scheme. The faucets, towel holders, and vanity inlays are all chrome, a cooler finish that feels subtle and almost blends into the background.

26. Nestle a vanity in a niche

Creating a niche for a bathroom vanity is a neat way to enclose the space, making it feel luxurious and streamlined, and providing many more opportunities for storage.

Cladding the niche in a luxurious material is a must for following through on that boutique hotel look. This bathroom designed by Cara Woodhouse achieves just that, a stunning example of what can be achieved for bathroom splashback ideas.

What material is best for bathroom vanity tops?

One of the best materials for a bathroom vanity top is a man-made stone-look composite. This material can be designed to mimic everything from marble to quartz. It comes in a vast range of colors and finishes, can withstand soaking without damage, and is resistant to spillages of caustic materials, such as nail varnish remover. It is also very easy to clean.

What bathroom vanities are in style?

Bathroom vanities that are in style are those that incorporate some kind of storage – hidden for neat, streamlined bathrooms, or those that make a statement in the space, whether that's through color, design or material.

Wooden bathroom vanities are really having a moment, adding warmth and texture to schemes. It's also a timeless choice – this natural material works in plenty of design styles and truly never dates.

Depending on the look you want to go for, bathroom vanity trends range from very contemporary, sleek designs to those created from antique – or antique-look furniture.

What can I use instead of a bathroom vanity?

There are plenty of items you can use as a bathroom vanity: ideas include upcycled barrels; antique wash stands or second-hand tables or dressers. The only rules are that it needs to be the right height for you to comfortably wash your hands and face, and that it isn't too bulky that it dominates your space. And of course have the room to comfortably house sink.

How can I make my bathroom vanity look better?

You can make your bathroom vanity look better with a lick of paint. Start by sanding the vanity back and then learn how to paint wood furniture to ensure your vanity has a professional finish. Be sure to opt for a hardwearing paint that can withstand the moisture of the bathroom.

Swapping out your hardware is another effective way to elevate your bathroom vanity more affordably. Handles and faucets have a big impact, so opt for something like brass for timeless appeal. Your bathroom vanity mirror also adds a lot to the overall finish, so choose a design that complements the rest of your scheme.

Also, consider your bathroom countertop decor. Swapping out basic plastic soap bottles for more elevated disposable ones will instantly make your sink look more expensive, as will adding trays to store things on, giving them a sense of permanence.

Designing a bathroom vanity is all about getting the right balance of style and function. Decide whether a built-in or freestanding cabinet is better suited to your space, and from there, you can have fun with the more decorative details, like the accessories and the best color for your vanity.