Sizing Up the Situation: When Vanity Goes Awry
I’ll never forget the first night in our new home. As I excitedly went to brush my teeth before bed, that’s when it struck me – our master bath vanity was built for Hobbits. [1] Not that the previous owners were Bilbo-sized, but a 30-inch vanity was pretty standard back in the 80s compared to the newer 34-inch standard. Standing at 5’9″, with my husband towering over 6 feet, that extra four inches made a world of difference. Over the next three and a half years, we found ourselves hunched over the sink, cursing the makers of short vanities and dreaming of the day we could renovate our master bathroom.
Bathroom renovations, as it turns out, do not come cheap. I became a student of bathroom remodeling on a budget, planning, pinning, and consuming every blog I could find on the topic. [2] I refined my ideas until I landed on a firm game plan, and I’m excited to share my top tips for saving money on your own bathroom makeover.
Vanity Fair: Choosing the Right Fit
When it comes to bathroom vanities, size is everything. The standard height may have been a mere 30 inches back in the day, but today’s taller vanities provide a much more ergonomic experience. [1] As someone who’s been there, done that with the hunched-over sink struggle, I can’t stress enough the importance of choosing a vanity height that works for your stature.
Of course, height isn’t the only consideration. The width of your vanity is crucial as well, particularly if you’re working with a smaller bathroom layout. Measure your space carefully and choose a vanity that maximizes storage without overwhelming the room. [3] And don’t forget to factor in the depth – you’ll want a vanity that provides ample countertop space without jutting out too far and making the room feel cramped.
Budgeting for Bathroom Bliss
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Luxurious bathroom vanities? For any budget? Yeah, right.” But hear me out. With a little creativity and some savvy shopping, you can absolutely achieve the vanity of your dreams without breaking the bank. [4]
One of the keys to staying on budget is to get creative with your materials. Sure, you could splurge on a high-end vanity, but why not consider refurbishing an existing piece instead? [1] Our master bathroom renovation came in at around $9,000, and we were able to achieve a custom look by refinishing the existing vanity and adding a fresh coat of paint. [5] The results were stunning, and we couldn’t be happier with the outcome.
Another budget-friendly tip? Scour secondhand shops, estate sales, and even Facebook Marketplace for hidden gems. You’d be amazed at what you can find with a little elbow grease and a discerning eye. [6] I once scored a beautiful solid wood vanity for a mere $100, and with a little sanding and a fresh coat of paint, it looked like a million bucks.
Accessorize for the Wow Factor
Alright, so you’ve found the perfect vanity and stayed on budget. Now it’s time to add those finishing touches that will truly make your bathroom feel like a luxurious oasis. [7]
One of my favorite ways to elevate a vanity is with thoughtful hardware choices. Swapping out those dated knobs and pulls for something a little more elevated can make a surprising difference. [5] And don’t be afraid to splurge a little here – high-quality hardware can last for years and really elevate the overall look and feel of your space.
Another easy way to add a touch of luxury? Invest in a beautiful vanity top. Quartz and marble are always stunning options, but you can also find gorgeous laminate or even solid surface countertops that won’t break the bank. [7] Just be sure to measure carefully and work with a reputable fabricator to ensure a seamless, professional-looking installation.
Putting It All Together: A Vanity Fit for Royalty
At the end of the day, creating a luxurious bathroom vanity is all about balancing form and function. [8] You want a piece that’s both visually stunning and truly practical for your everyday needs. With a little planning, a healthy dose of creativity, and a willingness to think outside the big-box-store box, you can absolutely achieve the vanity of your dreams – no matter your budget.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your bathroom oasis today. Who knows, you might just end up with a vanity fit for a king (or queen).
References
[1] Bella Tucker Kitchen Design-Cabinet Refinishing-Nashville TN. (2015, June). Bathroom Remodeling on a Budget. https://bella-tucker.com/2015/06/bathroom-remodeling-on-a-budget/
[2] Caitlin Marie Design. (n.d.). Primary Bathroom Makeover on a Budget. https://caitlinmariedesign.com/primary-bathroom-makeover-on-a-budget/
[3] Silber, S. (n.d.). Basement Bathroom Design. https://stefanasilber.com/basement-bathroom-design/
[4] Reddit. (2022, September). High Quality but Affordable Bathroom Vanities. https://www.reddit.com/r/HomeImprovement/comments/xoqljh/high_quality_but_affordable_bathroom_vanities/
[5] Houzz. (n.d.). Cabinet Hardware: Cheap vs. Expensive. https://www.houzz.com/discussions/3871879/cabinet-hardware-cheap-vs-expensive
[6] Robyn’s French Nest. (n.d.). How to Get a Custom Bathroom on a Budget. https://robynsfrenchnest.com/home/how-to-get-a-custom-bathroom-on-a-budget/
[7] Better Homes & Gardens. (n.d.). Bathroom Countertop Ideas. https://www.bhg.com/bathroom/vanities/bathroom-countertop-ideas/
[8] Pacini, L. (2023, May 07). How to Paint Cabinets. https://lizpacini.com/2023/05/07/how-to-paint-cabinets/