Your bathroom should reflect your unique style with its accoutrements. Perhaps you like a sleek and modern space over a homey traditional look, or maybe you prefer a large walk-in shower over a snug clawfoot tub.
No matter your individual preferences, a few features will likely be standard across the board: a toilet and sink, for example. What you might not consider, though, is how the height of your bathroom vanity can affect the feel and look of the space.
Standard Sink & Vanity Sizes
Bathroom vanities range in height. However, the standard bathroom vanity height is 30 to 34 inches, with 34 inches being the universal average. When it comes to selecting the right piece, you might want to consider your personal height. For instance, a 32-inch bathroom vanity may not be suitable or comfortable for an individual who is 6 feet tall. Couples who vary in height may have to compromise when it comes to selecting the right vanity.
The standard bathroom counter height ranges from 30 to 34 inches. The most common standard widths for single vanities are 24, 30, 36 and 42 inches. If you have a tiny bathroom, a vanity that is 24 inches wide can help you save space. On the other hand, double sink pieces can range in width from 60 to 72 inches. Additionally, the standard depth of a vanity is about 20 inches. Narrower vanities are ideal for small bathrooms. If you have a tiny space, there are narrow vanities available that are 14 to 18 inches wide. You can even get corner vanity for rooms that are extremely small. Bathroom vanities that are narrower than 14 inches wide may need to be custom ordered.
Optimal Bathroom Vanity Height
Vanity height plays a critical role in the ease of use and aesthetic appearance of your bathroom.
The bathroom vanity is where you’ll wash your hands, get ready for the day, and do most of your primping and preening. As such, it’s important that it be at the optimal height for these tasks.
Furthermore, your bathroom vanity height must complete the look of your space. A vanity that is too tall or short may make the room look awkward and lack cohesion. So, what is the ideal vanity height for most bathrooms?
The majority of builders and architects agree that the standard bathroom vanity height is around 30 to 34 inches, but this isn’t the case for all bathrooms. When choosing the best vanity height for your space, here are the top factors you’ll want to consider.
Standard vs. Comfort Height
While the standard bathroom counter height is generally between 30 and 34 inches, some homeowners may prefer what’s called “comfort height” for their vanities.
Comfort height vanities tend to be around 36 inches high. These added few inches help those who are on the taller side feel more comfortable using their vanities.
Accommodation of all Users
Another important factor to consider when choosing a vanity is who will be using it the most. If your entire family is on the taller side, then comfort height may be best for you. However, if you have a range of heights in your family, choosing an average is best.
For example, technically speaking, the optimal vanity height for men is between 34 and 36 inches, and the optimal height for women is between 32 and 34 inches. The average number of 34, then, fits the bill for both men and women.
Sink Style
Next, think about what style of sink you plan to have in your vanity. The major consideration here is whether you’ll have a vessel sink or not.
Vessel sinks sit on top of the vanity — almost like a bowl. They can be small and round, large and square, or any other size or shape. If you have one of these, however, it may influence the height of your vanity counter. Vessel sinks will add to the overall height, so you may want the counter to be slightly lower. Testing out different vanity heights at a showroom is a good idea in this case.
Existing Fixtures and Features
Finally, if your project is a remodel, consider what’s already in your bathroom that you don't plan on changing. You’ll want the style of your new vanity to match the rest of your bathroom, so keep your existing accents in mind when shopping for something new.
You’ll also typically want to reuse plumbing fixtures and electrical outlets when possible. In some cases, this may limit your vanity height options.
The Optimal Bathroom Vanity Height for Your Space
Modern Bathroom carries a wide range of luxury bathroom vanities to match your distinctive style. Visit our Southern California showroom to see various vanity heights in person or give us a call to discuss your project with one of our expert salespeople.
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