Beautiful Bath Vanity Ideas + Examples by Architects
We want to be particular about the design of bath vanity that we use every day. "I want to install a nice washstand in my new house." "I want a beautiful washstand in my new house." or "I want a good-looking washstand in my remodeled house." There are many people who wish to have a beautiful washstand in their new house or in remodeled home. However, you may not always know what materials and shapes to choose to create your own image real. In this issue, we would like to introduce some examples of beautiful washstands and storages with photos.
1. Type of washbasin
It is no exaggeration to say that the shape of the washbasin determines the main feature of a washroom. First, let's take a look at what types of washbasins are available.
- Vessel-shaped
- Undercounter type
- Overcounter type (embedded type)
- Wall-mounted type
Each of the above four types will be described with photos.
1-1. Vessel type (stationary type)
Vessel-type bath vanities are a style of washbasin that looks as if the washbasin is set on top of the counter. The washbasin looks like a beautiful object, creating a hotel-like atmosphere.
There is a wide range of washbasin designs, including round, oval, and rectangular. Choose the design you prefer while also minding user-friendliness.
The vessel shape, with its superior design, is also recommended for installation in a sub hand wash basin. However, it is important to know that choosing a dish or bowl-shaped washbasin will leave a gap between it and the countertop, making it difficult to clean. This style is recommended for those who like a glamorous presence in which the washbasin playing the main role.
1-2. Undercounter type
The undercounter type is a shape as if the washbasin were placed under the counter. It is recommended for those who prefer a simple look since this type is seamless and clean style with less bumps and dips.
Another feature is that the washbasin is below the counter, making it difficult for water to splash onto the floor. This style of washbasin is easy to clean and can be said that it's the mainstream. It is widely used in homes and stores.
1-3. Overcounter type (embedded type)
The overcounter type is like the washbasin embedded in the counter. This type of washbasin is easier to clean because there is less space between the counter and the washbasin.
One of the features of this product is that you can freely combine the materials of the counter and washbasin to create your favorite design. This is recommended for those who want not only beautiful design but also cleanability.
1-4. Wall-mounted type
A wall-mounted washstand is, as the name suggests, a washstand mounted directly on the wall. Since a countertop is not installed, this type is recommended for those who do not wish to make unnecessary decorations.
On the other hand, it is inevitable that the drainage trap under the washbasin will be visible from the outside. If you are concerned about the appearance of the piping, you can choose a trap with a good design or plumb from the wall.
Wall-mounted models also make it more difficult to secure storage space. However, the advantage of compact installation in a limited space cannot be overlooked. This type of washbasin is often used for hand washing in toilets and in spaces with integrated bathrooms.
2. How to create a storage space in bath vanity? Beautiful examples
No matter how nice the washbasin is, it must be easy to use. At the bath vanity, we wash our hands, brush our teeth, and wash our faces. Since washstand is used by the whole family, it should also have good storage capacity. It is convenient to store soap, toothbrushes, towels, hair dryers, and other small items within easy reach.
To make it look neat and clean without making it look lived-in, make sure you have enough storage space. Here we will show you how to create storage space in your bath vanity along with photos of actual examples.
2-1. Use the space under cabinets
If storage capacity is important, a washbasin cabinet should be employed. The photo shows an example of a large washbasin cabinet with a simple design.
It has a large storage space with an opening door under the wide washbasin and drawers on the side. You will have no trouble storing not only small bathroom items, but also larger items such as cleaning supplies.
In addition, there is a cabinet behind the mirror that is useful for storing small items. It would be neat and tidy for toothpaste and skin care products for the whole family.
2-2. Open storage with shelves
Even if the bath vanity itself has no storage capacity, there are ways to create storage space by adding shelves. By not attaching a door, you can also significantly reduce the cost. The photo shows an example of a built-in shelf under the counter.
We used small cases combined with the shelves to create an open storage cabinet. The cabinet has plenty width and will be useful for storing small items. Installing shelves can also be used to blindfold the drain trap.
2-3. Use mirror cabinets
Wall-mounted mirror cabinets are useful for storing small items around the bath vanity. Equipment manufacturers offer three-sided mirrors with storage, even if they are not integrated with the bath vanity. You can also customize the length of the mirror cabinet to fit with your own bath vanity.
The photo shows an example of a mirror cabinet with mosaic tiles on the wall. Since the only visible part is the mirror, it gives a clean and neat impression. The shelves are within easy reach, so you can quickly put things away and have no trouble when you have visitors.
3. Recommended materials for bath vanities (washbasins)
The impression of a bath vanity is greatly influenced by the materials used. Choose materials according to the look you want to create: wood for a warm impression, artificial marble for a simple space, or mortar for stark look.
One way is to combine different materials for the counter and washbasin to create a design of your choice. Here are three typical materials.
- Wood
- Artificial marble
- Mortar
Here are some examples.
3-1. Wood
This is an example of a wash space installed as part of the workspace above the stairs. A vessel-type washbasin was installed as part of the built-in counter.
The large counter installed under the window is integrated with the wash space, creating a seamless and connected impression as a whole. The white ceramic washbasin goes well with the wood grain of the flooring and ceiling, making it an ideal material to combine with the wood. Wood blends easily into the family's living space and gives a sense of warmth.
3-2. Artificial marble
Recently, acrylic resin and FRP bath vanities are the mainstream, but we also recommend artificial marble bath vanities. The surface has a subtle luster, creating a luxurious appearance. Another appeal of this material is its durability and ease of use, as well as its resistance to cracking. It is also a relatively inexpensive and easy-to-select material.
The photo shows an undercounter artificial marble bath vanity. The counter and washbasin are in one sequence, making it easy to clean. The matte texture of the artificial marble gives the wood-grain washroom a one-rank higher quality.
3-3. Mortar
If you like a cool, stark look, why not make your bath vanity out of mortar? Mortar is a building material made of cement mixed with water and sand. It can be made waterproof by applying a top coat of paint, so that you can employ it for domestic water use spaces. There is also a material called "resin mortar," which is even more water-resistant than mortar and resistant to cracking. Although the cost is higher, it is perfectly easy to maintain.
Mortar bath vanities are very flexible in design because they are shaped with a wood base. Dimensions such as length, width, and height can also be determined by considering the ease of use.
The photo shows a washbasin built for a woodblock print artist's studio. It is custom made to the size needed for washing woodblocks. The result is a sink that looks nice while realizing the artist's requests.
4. Examples of bath vanities created by architects
If you want to enjoy a one-of-a-kind design that you won't find in a commercial washbasin cabinet, ask an architect to design a washbasin only for you.
Architects with extensive design knowledge can meet your demand not only on usability, such as width and size, but also on your preferred taste, such as overseas or Japanese modern style. Here are some examples of beautiful washstands created by architects.
4-1. Case study 1: Washbasin cabinet with beautiful mosaic tiles
The undercounter type washbasin has a clean and neat look. Indirect lighting is provided behind the rectangular mirror.
The mosaic tiles on the walls are a functional material that is resistant to splashing and easy to clean. White was chosen for the washbasin and wall-mounted storage on either side to further enhance the color of the tiles.
Furthermore, the drainage trap under the counter was installed with wall piping and a well-designed bottle trap. We were particular about creating a clean impression down to the smallest detail, resulting in a hotel-like washroom space.
4-2. Case study 2: Overseas-style washbasin
This is an example of a semi-embedded washbasin mounted on a glass counter. Blue mosaic tiles are installed on the floor and walls, creating a washroom space that looks like an overseas bathroom.
Small accessories such as towel bars, toilet paper holders, and remote controls also have a simple design with little decoration. By using only inorganic materials such as glass, tile, and metal, a beautiful washroom space was created.
4-3. Case study 3 Double sink bath vanity
For large families or households where adults and children have overlapping usage times, we recommend a bath vanity with two washbasins. Here is an example of an undercounter double-bowl washbasin installed.
Windows above and below the mirror create a washroom with an abundance of natural light. The mirror is a large, horizontal type that matches the width of the bath vanity.
The storage shelves utilize the thickness of the wall, and the shelves are white for a clean look. Tiles are used for the floor, creating a luxurious washroom space.
5. Summary
The selection of the type and material of the washbasin is an important factor in creating a beautiful washstand.
Choose from four types of washbasins according to your preference: vessel type, undercounter type, overcounter type, and wall-mounted type. We recommend the following types of washbasin materials: wood, artificial marble, and mortar.
For washstands that must be practical, build cabinets and built-in shelves to provide storage capacity.
If you have an image of your ideal washroom space, why not consult an architect for free? With a wealth of design knowledge, the architect may have the ideas to bring your vision to life. At japanesse-architects.com, our architectural advisors will introduce you to the right architect for you. Please take advantage of this service to make your home even better.
