Do you want to layout your vanity and shower? We heard you. So, we asked the experts to help you determine the correct measurements for your bathroom design. Here is the answer.
The distance between the vanity and shower ranges from 15 to 20 inches, starting from the edge of the sink or countertop. If you follow this guideline, you will be comfortable in your bathroom.
The vanity and shower are essential elements of a bathroom, regardless of size and location. In this post, you will learn more about these fixtures and the basic bathroom layout. We will also answer other questions you may have, so keep reading.
What Is A Bathroom Vanity?
The bathroom vanity is a set of furniture designed for grooming and storage. Likewise, it is comparable to a vanity or dressing table where you apply your makeup or keep cosmetics, except for the sink.
Its basic components are the lavatory basin and a mirror. Besides these, you can also add shelving, countertops, and light fixtures.
Click here to see this vanity mirror with LED-backlit on Amazon.
Can You Put The Vanity Next To The Shower?
You can place the vanity beside the bathing area provided it has enough leeway, as mentioned above. Consequently, maintaining the recommended clearance will enable you and your loved ones to use the vanity and shower simultaneously without interference.
Also, to further separate the shower area from other elements, install an acrylic panel or shower door. It serves as a divider and reduces water damage in bathroom corners that must not get soaked in water.
Click here to see this screen shower door on Amazon.
How To Design Your Bathroom Vanity?
Here are the factors to consider when designing your bathroom vanity.
Dimension
The typical height of a vanity ranges from 36 to 43 inches. However, you can tailor it according to the average height of the people living in your home. Likewise, adding a stool is useful for children to wash their hands or brush their teeth.
Purpose
Besides washing up, the vanity also has good storage capacity. You may build a cabinet-type vanity where you can display your bathroom supplies, extra towels, or even a medicine box. Similarly, a double sink is also possible for a spacious vanity.
Additional Fixtures
Task lighting above or beside the mirrors improves the overall ambiance of the vanity. To wall hang, the size of pendant lights must be less than the mirror's width. LED fixtures are also trendy to make your vanity glamorous.
Style
Whether you are upgrading an old vanity or building a new one, it's the best time to express yourself and release your creative juices.
Personalize it by choosing the patterns, textures, and finishes that fit your personality. Similarly, transform this area using a traditional, modern, or eccentric style.
For instance, open vanity ideas are popular for those who want a minimalist look. The open vanity style has no coverings or door cabinets, leaving the area underneath the sink bare. Watch this clip for more bathroom vanity ideas.
Should Vanity Be Flushed With The Wall?
The bathroom vanity is usually flush against the wall. The gap should be less than 2 inches. It will conceal the plumbing and make your bathroom look seamless.
Also, floating or wall-mounted vanities are ideal for additional storage because there will be space for baskets or containers beneath.
Should You Caulk The Vanity To The Wall?
Caulk the gap between the vanity and the wall. Caulking is one of the practical sealing techniques to protect your furniture from water problems.
How Do You Fill The Gaps In The Bathroom Vanity?
These gaps are commonly seen in the joints of fixtures placed beside the wall. Note the correct measurements. Then, purchase a cabinet or countertop suitable for the sink and wall features.
When caulking, apply at least 2 inches thick of the mixture. Ensure the cracks and holes are fully covered. Over the caulk, you can apply an elastomeric sealant to keep the protection durable and long-lasting.
Click here to see these caulking tools on Amazon.
Another way to fix the gap is through sealing tape. It is also ideal for sink and bathtub gaps. Besides caulking, adhere this tape over the caulked edges to secure the gap.
Keep in mind that the color of the tape should match the color of the wall and vanity, so it will not be only functional but also aesthetic.
Click here to see this waterproof sealing tape on Amazon.
For a step-by-step procedure, explore this guide: How To Fill The Gap Between Vanity Top And Wall.
How To Plan The Best Bathroom Layout?
Like other home improvement projects, layout plan is key to achieving your best bathroom. So, spend time assessing the dos and don'ts.
Bathroom Layout Rules
In this section, we collected basic rules for this project according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association and building codes. Follow these to design a practical and efficient bathroom.
Bathroom Openings
These measurements include doors and windows. The bathroom ceiling height must not be less than 80 inches.
Door openings are 32 to 34 inches wide. Aside from the size, you must also ensure there are no blockages behind the door. Meanwhile, the standard sliding window size for bathrooms is 24 by 36 inches or 60 by 84 inches.
Sink
You can install bathroom sinks either drop-in, vessel, or wall-mounted. The installation depends on your vanity design. Drop-in types go under the countertops while the vessel sink is above and exposed.
From the center, the sink has a distance of 15 to 20 inches to the side wall. If you want two sinks, the length of your vanity countertop must be at least 60 inches. In comparison, the double-sink has a distance of 30 to 36 inches.
Click here to see this oval vessel sink on Amazon.
Shower
The typical shower area has 3o by 30 inches measurement. The position of the shower control and head differs depending on the user's height.
For instance, if you are 6 feet tall, the control must be located 47 inches from the ground. Then, the head is 80 inches. However, these values are not applicable for shower systems with multiple heads and knobs.
Although shower seats are optional, they come in handy when you have a frail elder or injured household member. Thus, its best position is 17 to 19 inches from the floor.
Click here to see this multifunction shower panel system on Amazon.
Toilet
Provide an allowance of 15 to 18 inches between the toilet bowl and another furnishing. But if you opt for a toilet compartment, it should be at least 30 by 60 inches in distance. Similarly, the toilet paper holder has 8 to 12 inches of clearance from the bowl.
Click here to see this stainless steel holder on Amazon.
We have a detailed discussion on bathroom dimensions. Check this post: How Big Is A Typical Half Bathroom: Dimensions Explored.
Bathroom Remodel Mistakes
When upgrading your bathroom, below are 8 mistakes you must not commit:
- You do not plan your layout well.
- You skip consultations with qualified plumbers or contractors.
- Having a poor or missing a ventilation system will lead to peeled wallpaper and mold growth.
- Whether too bright or dark, you will squint and feel agitated because of the inappropriate lighting.
- Although the bathroom is usually wet, a substandard drainage system is prone to stagnant water.
- If slipping always happens, your bathroom floor tiles have a poor grip and low COF ratings.
- Not following proper dimensions or spaces between furnishings makes small bathrooms crowded.
- Not maximizing the space for fitted and ample storage results in a cluttered bathroom.
Bathroom Remodeling Tips
Meanwhile, consider these expert tips to save time and resources.
- Create a bathroom inspiration mood board based on your preferences.
- Determine which kind of bathroom you want (standard, half, or wet).
- Design an accessible bathroom layout for efficient mobility.
- Create a budget for this project with a 10% allowance for unexpected expenses.
- Purchase durable bathroom fixtures from your trusted retailer.
- Try wainscoting to protect and decorate the walls.
- Invest in a reliable shower system.
- Incorporate plants to bring color to your pristine bathroom.
- Opt for bright colors for your walls.
- Mount hooks, racks, or floating shelves for extra storage.
- Install large mirrors and tiles to increase the sense of space.
- Avoid moving faucets because it is costly.
- Explore the possibility of skylight windows to increase natural light and ventilation.
- Choose a barn or pocket door for space-saving and better opening.
What Is The First Thing You Should See When You Walk Into A Bathroom?
The first thing you should see upon entering the bathroom is the vanity area or a bathtub. These distinct elements are both decorative and functional.
In contrast, remember to avoid placing your toilet bowls at the entrance of your bathroom. If possible, try to keep it low-profile given its purpose.
Final Thoughts
Whether parallel or side-by-side, the bathroom vanity and shower must have enough clearance. So, the recommended measurements from the sink to the windows are crucial for any bathroom layout.
Even so, you can tailor the dimensions depending on the overall size of the room and your circumstances.
Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this post, explore these articles about bathroom fixtures:
How To Fill An Empty Space In The Bathroom