When choosing a vanity for your luxury bathroom, there is a lot to consider. In addition to the aesthetic design choices you must make, you also have to decide on characteristics such as the type, size, shape, and more. One decision to hash out early in the design process is whether you’re looking for a floating or freestanding vanity.
Differences Between Floating and Freestanding Vanities
Floating vanities are wall-mounted and appear to “float” above the floor. They come in a range of styles from slim profiles to larger designs with multiple cabinets. Freestanding vanities rest on the floor, either on a solid base or on legs.
Although floating vanities are most often chosen when a modern aesthetic is desired, both types of vanities can be designed to match any architectural style. From a practical perspective, both floating and freestanding vanities can also accommodate features such as double sinks, open or closed cabinets, and built-in shelving.
Pros and Cons of Floating Vanities
If you’re considering a wall-mount vanity to complement the contemporary aesthetic in your luxury bathroom, think about the potential advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Floating Vanities
Because they are raised above the floor, floating vanities make bathrooms look larger and help lighten the space, making them a great option for smaller baths and powder rooms. Light is able to bounce off the floor below, which makes the space feel more expansive. It’s also easier to clean around and under floating vanities.
When thinking about future functionality, remember that floating vanities can be designed for aging in place with space under the countertop for wheelchair accessibility. The wall-mounted design also provides more nuanced control over the height of the vanity.
Disadvantages of Floating Vanities
Floating vanities tend to have less storage space than freestanding designs because the cabinets don’t go all the way to the floor. However, this can be mitigated with modular wall storage solutions that can be designed to coordinate with the vanity.
Pros and Cons of Freestanding Vanities
Freestanding vanities evoke a more traditional or transitional look, although they can be styled to match a modern aesthetic.
Advantages of Freestanding Vanities
Freestanding vanities that are floor-mounted offer more storage space because the cabinets are larger. You typically have more options for choosing the right combination of drawers and cabinets to match your storage needs.
Disadvantages of Freestanding Vanities
Floor-mounted vanities are less compatible with wheelchair accessibility needs. Although you can decide how tall you want the vanity to be, you have less precise control because the cabinets come in size increments. Freestanding vanities also have a higher risk of becoming dirty near the base, and they are generally not recommended in smaller baths because it creates an overall heavier look.
Which Type of Vanity Is Right for You?
Think about your current and future needs when selecting the right vanity for your luxury bathroom. Do you plan to age in place? Will your kids outgrow the vanity you have in mind? Will your guests be more comfortable with a double sink? Also, consider the aesthetic you’re going for and choose the vanity style that best fits.
Room size and layout also play a role in vanity selection. A floating vanity can help make a small bathroom look larger, and a large bathroom might benefit from the anchoring effect a freestanding vanity provides. Freestanding vanities also need less wall support, so they are ideal for renovations when not taking down walls, or for walls that do not have adequate blocking for a wall-mounted vanity.
Because both types of vanities can be designed using a modular approach, no matter which path you choose, you’ll have total design flexibility to seamlessly blend your individuality, lifestyle, and aesthetic. You can also customize wall-mounted storage solutions to pair with the vanity, so if you opt for a floating vanity and need extra storage space, you have the ability to add more, even in a small bathroom.
Choose Hastings for Vanity Design
Whether your design theme calls for a floating or freestanding vanity, Hastings has modular design collections that allow you to customize to match your needs. You have the freedom to create tailored concepts from an expansive range of cabinet styles, sizes, materials, colors, and finishes that match your lifestyle needs and design preferences. Just schedule a design consultation to get started.
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