Design Notes
The bathroom plays a key role in everyone’s morning routine, but more specifically, the bathroom vanity. It’s the place where the kids go to brush their teeth, fix their hair, and where all the necessities are stored. They can also maximize limited space and give you the storage you need, but how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s explore some of the common questions about bathroom vanities to help you find the perfect one.
Bathroom Vanity Dimensions
Size is important and can be influenced by the layout and needs of the bathroom. 36 inches wide is a standard size for single sink vanities, while 60 and 72 inches are standard for double sinks. Height is another crucial element to factor in when selecting a bathroom vanity. Consider who will be using it most. Children need one that is easy for them to reach, while taller adults might need something slightly taller than standard. Floating vanities are an excellent option for those who are above average height since they can be adjusted to suit your needs. When designing a guest bath or a small hall bathroom, consider choosing a narrower vanity, such as a 24-inch or even smaller one, to allow plenty of room to walk in and out. We are a dealer for James Martin Vanities, a company that offers incredible options on premade vanities that suit a wide variety of needs in a shorter lead time. Check out the amazing gallery and options available to you.
Bathroom Vanity Countertops
Countertops tend to be one of the most used elements of the bathroom vanity, right after the faucet. It is the workspace where all your items land at one point or another. From toothpaste to hairbrushes, this is the spot where you lay everything out so you can reach it easily. This means that the material needs to be durable to withstand wear and tear. Options have expanded in the last two decades to include granite, marble, and even more unique choices such as concrete and stainless steel. With so many options, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. We will share the top three options that many of our clients often choose.
- Quartz: This is a popular choice because it is resistant to stains and durable, making it a favorite in family bathrooms. Coming in a variety of colors means it can complement multiple designs and integrate into several styles.
- Ceramic: Porcelain, ceramic, and even glass fall into this category, and for many years, it was a traditional choice for the bathroom vanity counter. Ceramic is similar to stone because it is non-porous, meaning it is easy to maintain. Porcelain is the countertop choice in Europe because it is also easy to keep clean and resistant to stains.
- Natural stone: If you are looking for a more eco-friendly choice, then this is the category for you, which includes granite, marble, and slate. These counters require a seal, sometimes yearly, which means a little more maintenance. Because of its natural and often unique beauty, this option gives a luxurious feel to the bathroom.
Countertops are an essential decision and need to match your lifestyle needs. Talk to a designer to go over the best option for you. To read more in-depth about selecting countertops for your bathroom vanity, read an article from The Spruce.
Bathroom Vanity Mirrors
While countertops are the most used element in the bathroom, a mirror could be considered the most needed, after all, how else would you know about that toothpaste stain? It is also a beautiful addition to the space and enhances it. There are plenty of styles and sizes to suit whatever your design choice, which typically fall into these categories:
- Shape: From square to round and everything in between, this is a great way to add some elegance and even a little of yourself to the design.
- Storage: If you want to have items readily available, such as medicine, eye drops, or even hair accessories, having a mirror that doubles as storage is a plus.
- Shine: Getting ready in the morning is not always easy, and added light can provide the missing ingredient to a good routine. LED light strips are a great option.
Another thing to consider is the number; does your bathroom require more than one mirror? If you have a double sink, you can opt for one long mirror or have two individual mirrors. Both are good choices; it ultimately depends on your personal preference and the look you are trying to achieve. Check out these other helpful tips on mirror selection here.
Bathroom Vanity Design
The vanity is usually the focal point of the bathroom, making the design and selection important. Proper thought should be given to your specific routines and storage needs so you can design around these particular needs. There are, of course, some things that are considered essential no matter the space or style, so what are they?
- Drawers: From small hygienic items to hairdryers, drawers are a must with a bathroom vanity. They allow you to have easy access to your things but keep the counter looking clean and clutter-free. Consider multiple depths and widths to accommodate different items and objects.
- Sufficient counter space: If you tend to use several things at once when getting ready in the morning or evening, it is a good idea to include a counter that lets you lay everything out for you to see and use.
- Light: The bathroom is where all the little details happen when preparing for the day, which means there should be sufficient light from multiple angles. Natural light from the window, sconces, and LED strips in the mirror are great ways to incorporate enough light, regardless of the time of day.
The bathroom vanity plays a key role in your routine so be sure to talk with your designer so you can select the one that is perfect for you and your needs.
Bathroom Vanity Sinks
No vanity would be complete without a sink, but which one is right for you? How do you pick the right sink for your bathroom? Here are a few things to keep in mind.
- Size: There are many beautiful sinks with varying widths and depths, but the size of your vanity will determine your limit. Don’t forget to include the height of your facet as well. Combine both to know how tall everything will be in the end.
- Material: Metal and ceramic make good choices for material, and don’t stain, plus they are easy to maintain.
- Shape: There are so many more options than the under-mount sink, including drop-in and vessel. It is a beautiful way to add elegance, a unique twist, and even a splash of color to your bathroom.
The sink serves a functional role, but that does not mean it has to be ordinary. Talk to your designer about some of the options available to you and consider browsing Pinterest for inspiration.
Granite, Quartz, Marble, or Quartzite?
These are the top contenders when it comes to selecting the perfect countertop material for your kitchen or bathroom. Each one brings its own strengths, aesthetic appeal, and practical considerations—making the decision both exciting and a bit overwhelming.
Granite is a natural stone known for its durability and unique, one-of-a-kind patterns. Quartz, on the other hand, is an engineered surface that offers a wide range of color options and is prized for its low-maintenance qualities. Marble stands out for its timeless elegance and heat resistance, though it requires more upkeep. Quartzite closely resembles marble in appearance but offers greater durability and easier maintenance.
When making your selection, it’s important to consider factors such as heat and stain resistance, ease of maintenance, and of course, budget. Below, we break down the key differences, pros, and cons of each material to help you determine which surface best suits your lifestyle, design vision, and practical needs.
The kitchen pantry is often one of the most underutilized yet high-potential spaces in the home. While it can easily become a catch-all for clutter, a well-designed pantry is a true hidden gem—capable of transforming the functionality of your kitchen. From storing oversized serving pieces to housing everyday essentials, a thoughtfully planned pantry helps keep countertops clear and mealtime prep more efficient.
Whether you have a compact pull-out pantry, a spacious walk-in, or a dedicated butler’s pantry, innovative organization is key. A well-designed pantry not only maximizes storage but also supports the flow of your kitchen. Below, we’re sharing a few of our favorite design ideas and practical tips to help you better utilize your pantry space—and maybe even inspire your next kitchen upgrade.
Our showroom’s grand opening was the culmination of two years filled with vision, planning, and hard work—a dream brought to life through dedication and passion. Now, as we prepare to celebrate our second anniversary, we find ourselves reflecting on how quickly time has passed. It feels like only yesterday that we opened our doors and welcomed our very first clients into the space we’ve come to love so much.
Join us as we take a walk down memory lane and revisit the milestones, challenges, and moments that brought us to Uptown Shelby. This anniversary isn’t just a celebration of time—it’s a celebration of growth, community, and the relationships we’ve built along the way.
Walker WoodworkingThere is more to color than simply a large selection of hues. Color sends a message and can represent thought and emotion, especially in the world of design. Each year, Pantone announces its choice for the color of the year, a tradition that started in 1999, and designers everywhere eagerly await the news. Classic Blue was this year’s choice of color, a color that represents the future.
As we prepare to close the door on one decade and begin anew, many are filled with anticipation of what the coming year will bring. Blue has always been associated with stability, relaxation, and tranquility, as is seen in nature with the ocean and sky. We understand that hectic schedules and stressful office days generate a need for a place to unwind and completely relax. Here are a few ways to incorporate the color of the year into your home and give it that welcoming environment that will last throughout the coming decade and beyond.
Walker WoodworkingLight is one of nature’s most captivating elements, and its presence has the power to transform a space. In the world of interior design, natural light plays a vital role—not only by enhancing aesthetics but also by elevating the overall atmosphere of a room. It can create dramatic contrasts that bring depth and interest to a space, while also highlighting architectural and design features.
Natural light, when thoughtfully incorporated, makes interiors feel larger, warmer, and more welcoming. At Greenbrook Design, we embrace a design approach known as daylighting—the intentional use of natural light to shape how a space looks and feels throughout the day. It’s one of our favorite tools in the design process.
Here are just a few reasons why we love incorporating natural light into our projects…
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