It’s Okay to Put Your Bathroom Vanity in Front of a Window—If It Looks Like This (2024)

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It’s Okay to Put Your Bathroom Vanity in Front of a Window—If It Looks Like This (1)

No matter how often you purge old beauty products or how many trays you buy to corral your everyday skin care, there never seems to be enough vanity counter space to go around. So here’s a thought: Have it go from one end of the room to the other. In his latest project, designed for a client in Los Angeles’s Sherman Oaks neighborhood, designer Robert Diaz went above and beyond with a 17-foot-long Arabascato marble floating counter. “It’s designed to make a huge visual impact,” he says, noting he paid extra attention to picking a piece with prominent gray veining “It’s the first thing you see when you’re walking in from the hallway.”

Diaz tossed the floor-plan rule book when mapping out where everything would go in the 310-square-foot room. For starters there’s an oversize tub smack in the middle of the space. He found that placing it underneath Apparatus Studio’s Arrow pendant lampwould only further highlight the light fixture.

It’s Okay to Put Your Bathroom Vanity in Front of a Window—If It Looks Like This (2)

Then you’ve got the showstopping marble slab that was bolted into the now plaster-coated walls with steel brackets during the rough construction phase of the build. The statement surface, which is partially supported by two solid white oakwood cabinets (each one features an integrated sink up top), spans directly in front of the windows—something you don’t see very often.

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Turns out the windows overlook a private deck with French doors. In other words, you barely notice that the countertop cuts across them because you’re too busy looking outside. Luckily the motorized woven shades by Everhemroll all the way to the bottom of the glass panels.

It’s Okay to Put Your Bathroom Vanity in Front of a Window—If It Looks Like This (3)

While putting this much of any type of marble in a bathroom is going to cost you, if you do decide the splurge is worth it, at least don’t let any scraps go to waste. Diazused the offcuts from the vanity counter to create the base of the shower. Oh, and a floating soap shelf, because if there’s anything we learned, more counter space is more.

Photography by Todd Goodman

For hands-on advice from designers and pro DIYers, plus more scrappy before-and-after transformations,subscribe to Reno.Let your in-box do all the hard work—for now.

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It’s Okay to Put Your Bathroom Vanity in Front of a Window—If It Looks Like This (2024)

FAQs

Can you place a vanity in front of a window? ›

You might think that placing a vanity below a window is crazy, and that placing a mirror in front of a window is even crazier, but think again! This is a chance for a show-stopping moment, so take full advantage of it! Sometimes you just need to step out of the box and this is the perfect example!

Can bathroom vanity go against wall? ›

In nearly all cases, the big answer is yes — you should attach your vanity to the wall. What's more, the vanity should be flush against the wall, with no space between the back and the wall itself. The reason for this is to hide and protect your plumbing.

Does a powder room need a window? ›

Ventilation and airflow is crucial in a powder room's small space. According to most building codes, a window providing ventilation should be at least 5% of the square footage of the room or no smaller than 1 1⁄2 square feet.

Should your vanity face the window? ›

Ideally, you'll want to put your makeup vanity in front of a window: this ensures you get a supply of natural light that distributes evenly across your face. Try to place the vanity centrally in front of the window: if it's off to the edge, you'll get some misleading shadows on your face's far side.

Should a sink be in front of a window? ›

Having the sink under the window allows you to let in fresh air while airing out your kitchen and getting rid of the unwanted smells. This is also a good option for those kitchen disasters when you burn something and need somewhere to place a hot pan or baking dish while venting the smoke out of the kitchen.

What to do with extra space between bathroom vanity and wall? ›

One of the best ways to fix the gap between the vanity and the wall is to use a backer rod and caulk. Before getting the rod, you must carefully measure the gap to get the right dimensions. Taking this measurement ensures you get a rod that fits perfectly without cutting or shaving it first.

How far should a toilet be from the wall and vanity? ›

A toilet should have some elbow room between it and another fixture or vanity. The NKBA's recommendation is at least 18″. Codes allow a minimum distance of 15″.

Can you put vanity on top of vinyl plank flooring? ›

Yes, but only with a full spread of adhesive.

Heavy cabinets, vanities, islands, and such, should never be installed on top of LooseLay flooring with limited adhesive. Instead, we recommend you install vinyl flooring next to cabinets.

What is the most popular color for bathroom vanity? ›

Neutral Bathroom Color Schemes

Look for a vanity in beige, ivory, taupe, black, or shades of gray or white. Because these tones are so popular, you'll have options in all shapes and sizes.

What color vanity is in style? ›

Gray is still one of the hottest colors, especially for a bathroom vanity, but be sure to pick a warm gray or greige instead of a cool one. Wood is also a great option for a warmer tone in the bathroom. Any color or type of natural wood will bring the warmth you're looking for.

Does a floating vanity make the room look bigger? ›

If you don't want to lose storage space by going with a pedestal sink, you can also select a floating vanity. This will create the illusion of more space since the vanity doesn't sit on the floor.

Does a bathroom need a vent if it has a window? ›

So you may be asking yourself: Do I need a bathroom fan? The answer is generally yes. Residential bathroom ventilation is almost always required by any municipality, whether that ventilation is coming from a window or a fan.

How big should a vanity be in a powder room? ›

The 30-inch bathroom vanity size is a smart choice for tight areas, particularly guest bathrooms and powder rooms that have limited space. This modest width can only accommodate a single sink, and it offers less room for toiletries and storage in general.

Why do bathrooms not have windows? ›

Does a bathroom need a window? The short answer is no, a bathroom does not need a window, but it does require ventilation. Every state has their own requirements and codes, but a proper ventilation system is a must.

Is it okay to put mirror in front of window? ›

Be Wary When Hanging Mirrors That Face a "Bad" Window

Because the practice believes that it can attract negative energy from the outside of your home, in. It's best to avoid hanging a mirror opposite a window if majority of view is unpleasant part of street such as electric wires, poles, and piping.

Should your dressing table face the window? ›

Where should a dressing table be placed? The natural home for a dressing table is in your bedroom and when deciding where to place it, consider how you'll use it. You'll want as much natural light as possible for this area so think about putting it in front of a window to maximise the light for make-up application.

What is the best placement of window in bathroom? ›

Bathroom windows should be placed just above head height to offer higher levels of privacy. For narrow windows, you can place them high and get just as much light as a lower placed larger window, but achieve more privacy. Skylights are an exception to operable windows.

Why do sinks go in front of windows? ›

The simple reason why kitchen sinks have traditionally been placed under the window is that the window is, obviously, on an outside wall. In terms of plumbing, using as short a waste pipe as possible from the sink to the drains is not only the most effective but also the cheapest, solution.

Should sink be in middle of window? ›

If your kitchen window has a stunning view, your best option may be to stick with tradition and center the sink under the window. An additional benefit of positioning the sink under a window is the natural lighting.

Which types of vanities would be best for a bathroom where space is limited? ›

Corner bathroom vanities make the most of unused space in any size bathroom. Single sink bathroom vanities are ideal for small spaces or guest bathrooms. Double sink bathroom vanities offer extra counter space and storage space and work well in larger baths.

Should toilet be centered between wall and vanity? ›

Most codes require at least 15 inches (measured from the center of the toilet) from any side wall or obstruction and not closer than 30 inches center to center to any other sanitary fixture. (The NKBA actually recommends 32 inches.) There should be at least 24 inches of clear space in front of a toilet or bidet.

How do I fix a bathroom with no counter space? ›

Keep reading to discover 17 alluring ways to organize a bathroom without drawers and cabinets.
  1. Mount baskets to the wall to organize your bathroom products. ...
  2. Hang a medicine cabinet. ...
  3. Store bathroom supplies in a rolling cart. ...
  4. Add a side table to your bathroom. ...
  5. Store bathroom essentials in cutlery caddies.
Nov 10, 2017

What is code for bathroom vanity to toilet? ›

Sides of Toilet: Code states that the toilets cannot be closer than “15 inches from its center to any side wall, partition, vanity or other obstruction, or closer than 30 inches center-to-center between toilets or adjacent fixtures.” In other words, you need to provide less space between the toilet and a wall (15 ...

How much space do you need in front of a vanity? ›

Minimum Requirements

A clear floor space of 15 inches, measured from the center of the sink or vanity to any side wall, is also required. While these clearance measurements represent the minimum required, home-building experts suggest a clear floor space in front of a sink or vanity of 30 inches instead.

How far does vanity have to be from shower? ›

Before installing your bathroom fixtures, keep this general tip in mind: big fixtures, such as toilets, bathtubs, showers, and vanities, should be placed at least 30" apart from each other, a wall, or another feature. For more specific clearance and placement recommendations, read more below.

Should vanity go on top of flooring? ›

Generally, flooring contractors prefer that the cabinets go in first so that there is less possibility of the floor getting scratched. Cabinet installers like the floor to be in place so that the cutting and dust from the floor installation will not damage the vanity.

Can you put a vanity on top of laminate flooring? ›

Freestanding bathroom vanity units can be fit to a floating floor. This type of bathroom vanity unit will need to be fixed to the flooring first, however a laminate will be unable to float beneath a bathroom cabinet or vanity model.

Do you put flooring under or around vanity? ›

Because bathroom vanities are not as weighty as kitchen cabinets, it is generally suggested to tile beneath the vanity. The exception to this is if you have heating ducts or other systems that take advantage of the hidden area beneath the cabinet and the tile will be a hindrance to their installation.

What color makes a bathroom look bigger? ›

So what colors make a bathroom look bigger? According to basic design principles, light colors such as white, crème, pastel blue, gray or yellow will visually expand a room, while dark colors such as a deep red, green or brown, will make a room feel smaller.

What is the most relaxing color for a bathroom? ›

Pale blues and pastel tones

Create a bathroom that feels soothing and relaxing by choosing baby blue or pastel tones. Dark blue might be all the rage on Instagram, but keeping your colours soft is the ultimate way to create a calming space.

What color sells bathrooms? ›

What bathroom color is best when selling a house? According to a 2021 Zillow analysis, home buyers love blue bathrooms and reported that they would pay 1.6 percent more for bathrooms with soothing, light blue walls. Other popular choices include neutral colors like gray, off-white, or light yellow.

What is the color for bathroom 2023? ›

Sandy beiges, warm ochres, and dusky browns – earthy tones are the timeless classic bathroom colors of 2023. You can either use different nature-inspired shades together or stick to one hue's many saturations.

What color vanity is best for a small bathroom? ›

Classic White. "Lighter colors reflect light easily, which gives the room a bigger appearance," says Piercy. Unsurprisingly, a classic white paint is the perfect choice when it comes to creating the illusion of a bigger bathroom.

What is the latest Colour trend for bathrooms? ›

Warm earth tones are one of the biggest 2022 trending bathroom colors as a result of these two design shifts. You can't go wrong with wood-look and stone-look tile in these shades. Instead of cooler neutrals such as whites and grays, try out cozier earthy tile tones such as cream, beige, terracotta, and taupe.

Why do people like floating vanities? ›

It makes your bathroom look bigger.

Floating the vanity means the flooring can extend all the way to the wall, which instantly makes a bathroom appear more spacious. And a wall-hung vanity creates more usable space for stashing pieces like a wastebasket or a scale. A little foot room under the sink goes a long way.

What color flooring is best for a small bathroom? ›

White tiles are still the most popular tile color choice, especially for small bathrooms. A light tile color will make your tiny bathroom feel bigger and brighter. Especially when you have little to no natural light coming into your bathroom, then a white tile will be a classic and right choice.

How can I make my small bathroom look luxurious? ›

11 tips for making a small bathroom look elegant
  1. Add some warmth. ...
  2. Paint the tiles. ...
  3. Float your vanity. ...
  4. Open the vanity. ...
  5. Go for glass. ...
  6. Install dimmer lights. ...
  7. Don't forget the little touches. ...
  8. Update your fixtures.

Does a kitchen sink have to face a window? ›

There are no real guidelines for whether the sink should be fitted under a window or not, but there is one practical argument for it. Fitting a sink under a window means you can look out of the window when you do the dishes! And it will let natural light on your work, so that they get nice and clean too.

Where should I put my vanity in Feng Shui? ›

Most likely, the second biggest thing in your bedroom is a chest of drawers or vanity. Feng Shui says to create balance in the bedroom, the second biggest piece of furniture should be placed opposite the bed. So, place your chest of drawers, desk, vanity, chaise, sofa, etc. against the wall across from your bed.

Should there be a window above a kitchen sink? ›

No, you do not need a window above a kitchen sink, however, it is a popular design choice as it can help with ventilation, creates a view for when standing at the sink, and can create an inviting space filled with natural light.

Can you put a sink under a window? ›

The simple reason why kitchen sinks have traditionally been placed under the window is that the window is, obviously, on an outside wall. In terms of plumbing, using as short a waste pipe as possible from the sink to the drains is not only the most effective but also the cheapest, solution.

Does a vanity sink need a vent? ›

A vent is a necessary part of the drain system for any plumbing fixture. Its purpose is to equalize pressure in the pipes and prevent a vacuum from forming as the fixture drains.

What should not be placed in a kitchen sink? ›

10 Things You Should Never Put Down the Drain
  • Coffee Grounds. Since coffee grounds are not completely water-soluble, when grounds mix with butter, oil or grease already coating the pipes, there's an increased risk for clogs.
  • Butter and Margarine. ...
  • Cooking Oil. ...
  • Grease and Other Fats. ...
  • Eggshells. ...
  • Medication. ...
  • Pasta. ...
  • Rice.
May 7, 2020

How far above the sink should a window be? ›

Placement of Windows in the Kitchen

Kitchen windows are traditionally placed higher than windows in other rooms — 42 inches should give you room for lower cabinets, counters and backsplash.

What is the best color for a bathroom in feng shui? ›

Greens and whites are some of the best feng shui bathroom colors. They signify life and serenity and help to calm your senses. On the other hand, it's best to avoid blue and black as they represent the water element.

Which direction is best to face your bed? ›

According to ancient traditions like vastu shastra, the best direction to sleep in is toward the south. This theory is also supported by some recent research . This means that when you lie in bed, your head is pointed south , and your feet are pointed north.

What Colour should bathroom be as per feng shui? ›

Use Smooth Colors Inside

For example, light blue and some greenish and turquoise tones are perfect in a Feng Shui bathroom since water-inspired colors are preferred very often in Feng Shui bathrooms. Light pastel colors are also important in Feng Shui principles.

What is a window over a kitchen sink called? ›

Casem*nt Windows

Casem*nt windows hinge at one side and swing outward to open. They are easy to reach and operate with just one hand, which is good because it can be difficult to reach over a counter and sink.

What's the point of 2 sinks? ›

The primary purpose of double-bowl sinks was to make dishwashing easier: one bowl for soapy water, the other bowl with clean water for rinsing. Nowadays, the double-bowl sink is rarely used for dishwashing. However, this type of kitchen sink does more than make dishwashing easier.

Why is there a window over the sink? ›

There are other reasons for having a window above a kitchen sink according to a person who commented on the Reddit post. "It's also because it's where the most natural light comes through. Plus if you wash by hand, plates dry quicker. This is a hang over before the dishwasher," they wrote.

What should you not store under a sink? ›

Items not recommended to store under the sink

Harsh chemicals, bug spray, paper towels, waxes, carpet shampoo, drain cleaners, polishes and paints. Even some cleaning products, including dishwasher pods and colorful spray bottles, can be dangerous and entice curiosities for paws or tiny fingers.

What should be kept under the sink? ›

Under-sink storage is ideal for stashing cleaning supplies right where you'll need them. Stock a basket or tray with spray cleaners, paper towels or microfiber cloths, disinfectant wipes, brushes, sponges, and other essentials to keep your sink and countertop sparkling.

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