Vanities, Sinks, and Tapware: A Complete Guide to Bathroom Fixtures
Choosing the Right Bathroom Fixtures for Style & Functionality
Bathroom fixtures play a key role in both the design and practicality of your space. The right vanity, sink, and tapware can enhance storage, improve usability, and add a touch of luxury. Here’s a complete guide to help you make the best choices for your renovation.
1. Selecting the Perfect Vanity
Your vanity is the centrepiece of your bathroom, combining storage and style.
Types of Vanities:
🛁 Wall-Hung Vanities (Floating)
✔ Creates a modern, minimalist look
✔ Makes a small bathroom feel more spacious
✔ Easy to clean underneath
🛁 Freestanding Vanities
✔ More traditional in design
✔ Provides extra storage with drawers and cabinets
✔ Great for bathrooms with more floor space
🛁 Custom Vanities
✔ Fully tailored to your space and needs
✔ Choice of materials, finishes, and layouts
✔ Ideal for unique or awkward bathroom layouts
Material Options:
✔ Timber or Timber-Look – Adds warmth and a natural touch
✔ Polyurethane (Painted Finish) – Sleek, modern, and easy to clean
✔ Stone Benchtops – Durable and luxurious, with options like marble or engineered stone
Tip: Consider soft-close drawers for a premium feel and better durability.
2. Choosing the Right Sink
Your sink should be both practical and stylish, complementing your vanity and bathroom design.
Types of Sinks:
🛁 Above-Counter Basin (Vessel Sink)
✔ Creates a stylish, modern statement
✔ Works well with stone or timber benchtops
✔ More splash potential—best paired with taller tapware
🛁 Undermount Basin
✔ Seamless, clean look with no exposed edges
✔ Easier to wipe down and maintain
✔ Requires a stone or solid-surface benchtop
🛁 Inset (Drop-In) Basin
✔ Sits partially above the vanity benchtop
✔ Offers a balance between above-counter and undermount styles
✔ Works with a variety of vanity materials
🛁 Wall-Mounted Basin
✔ Space-saving option for small bathrooms or powder rooms
✔ No vanity needed—great for a minimalist look
✔ Less storage but enhances open space
Tip: Consider sink depth—shallow basins are sleek but may splash more, while deeper basins minimise mess.
3. Picking the Right Tapware
Tapware is the finishing touch that ties your bathroom together. It needs to be durable, functional, and stylish.
Types of Tapware:
🚰 Wall-Mounted Taps
✔ Modern, sleek design
✔ Frees up space on the vanity
✔ Requires precise plumbing installation
🚰 Bench-Mounted Taps
✔ Classic and easy to install
✔ Available in a range of designs and finishes
✔ Works well with above-counter basins
🚰 Mixer Taps vs. Three-Piece Taps
✔ Mixer Taps – Single lever for easy temperature control, modern aesthetic
✔ Three-Piece Taps – Separate hot and cold taps, traditional look
Popular Tapware Finishes:
✔ Chrome – Timeless, easy to clean, and budget-friendly
✔ Matte Black – Bold, modern, and striking
✔ Brushed Nickel – Subtle elegance with a softer metallic look
✔ Brushed Gold or Brass – Adds warmth and a touch of luxury
✔ Gunmetal – Edgy and sophisticated
Tip: Match tapware finishes across the bathroom (shower, vanity, bath) for a cohesive look.
4. Practical Considerations for Longevity
✔ Water Efficiency: Look for WELS-rated tapware to reduce water usage.
✔ Easy Cleaning: Matte and brushed finishes hide fingerprints better than polished chrome.
✔ Corrosion Resistance: Ensure tapware is high-quality to withstand moisture and daily use.
Final Thoughts: Fixtures That Complete Your Bathroom
The right vanity, sink, and tapware elevate both the functionality and style of your bathroom. By considering layout, materials, and finishes, you can create a space that’s practical, beautiful, and built to last.
At Custom Bathroom Creations, we help you choose fixtures that suit your lifestyle and budget.
Need expert advice? Contact us today to start planning your dream bathroom!