Renovating your bathroom or updating your space doesn’t have to feel like a daunting task — but we understand it often does.

Between limited layouts, mismatched styles, and never enough storage, finding the right furniture can quickly turn into a headache.

The wrong choice can make your bathroom feel cluttered, cramped, or simply off-balance — and once it's in place, it’s not so easy to change.

That’s where the right vanity unit makes all the difference.

It’s not just a sink — it’s the centrepiece of your bathroom.

The right piece blends beautifully with your décor, adds much-needed storage, and makes your space easier to live in day after day.

Whether you’re furnishing a narrow cloakroom, refreshing a tired family bathroom, or creating a spa-like ensuite, there’s a solution that fits your style, your routine, and your budget.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the perfect vanity unit — from saving space to showing off your personal style — and help you avoid common pitfalls along the way.

Because with a few smart decisions, your bathroom can become one of the most functional and feel-good spaces in your home.

1. Assess your space & needs

Before falling in love with a vanity unit based on looks alone, take a step back — literally.

One of the most common mistakes in bathroom design is choosing furniture that doesn’t suit the size or function of the room.

What looks perfect in a showroom or online might dominate your space or restrict movement at home.

Start by measuring your available space — width, depth, and height — including any skirting boards, radiator positions, or door swings.

Think about how people move in and out of the room.

In a high-traffic family bathroom, you’ll want enough clearance so the unit doesn’t feel in the way, and drawers or doors can open freely.

Consider who’s using the room, too.

A guest cloakroom? You can get away with a compact unit like the Turin 46cm Cloakroom Unit & Ceramic Basin, which offers sleek style without taking over the room.

A shared ensuite? You might benefit from twin drawers like those in the Cesena Twin Drawer Wall Hung Unit, which allow for personal storage without cluttering countertops.

Common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overlooking plumbing: Make sure your chosen unit is compatible with your current pipework. Floor-standing units often hide plumbing easily, while wall-hung options might require rerouting.
• Not accounting for splash zones: If your vanity is placed too close to a shower or bath, a wood or MDF finish may wear quickly unless it’s specially treated.
• Assuming storage is standard: Not all units offer the same internal layout. Some prioritise design over practicality. Think about what you need to store — from bulky cleaning products to everyday toiletries — and choose accordingly.

By carefully considering space, use, and flow, you'll avoid costly missteps and ensure your new vanity works for your day-to-day life — not against it.

2. Style that reflects you

Your bathroom might be the smallest room in the house — but it’s one of the most personal.

That’s why your vanity unit should do more than simply “fit in.”

It should feel like it belongs — a natural extension of your style, whether that’s sleek and contemporary or full of vintage charm.

Think about the overall mood you want to create.

Do you lean towards clean lines and minimalist spaces?

A wall-hung unit like the Stockholm 60cm Vanity gives a floating effect that feels light and modern, perfect for modern interiors.

Prefer something more grounded and traditional?

Floor-standing units like the Chatsworth Retro Vanity add character with their classic detailing and soft finishes.

Colour plays a big role too.

Gloss finishes — like those found in the Bora Wall Hung 1 Drawer Vanity Unit — reflect light and help brighten compact bathrooms.

Darker tones like graphite or matt black, as seen in the Serra Vanity Unit, create bold contrast and add drama to modern spaces.

Common pitfalls to avoid:

• Mixing clashing styles: Try to coordinate your vanity with existing fixtures like taps, towel rails and tiles. For instance, chrome handles on your vanity? Stick with chrome accessories elsewhere to maintain a cohesive look.
• Underestimating impact: Your vanity is often the first thing people see. Don’t treat it as an afterthought — treat it like the centrepiece it is.
• Ignoring practicality for aesthetics: That minimalist wall-hung unit may look stunning, but if you’re storing hairdryers, bottles or loo rolls, you’ll want something with a bit more depth.

When you choose a vanity unit that matches your aesthetic and your lifestyle, your bathroom instantly feels more considered — and more “you.”

3. Maximise storage smartly

Bathrooms can quickly become cluttered with toiletries, towels, cleaning products, and other essentials — and if your storage solution isn’t well thought out, your once tranquil space can feel chaotic and disorganised.

The right vanity unit can make a world of difference, providing not just a sink, but an organised haven for everything you need to keep within arm’s reach.

When considering storage, think about both volume and accessibility.

Do you need deep drawers for towels and cleaning supplies, or shallow compartments for smaller items like soaps, toothpaste, or makeup?

Units like the Lucca Floor Standing Sink Cabinet (with basin) or the Serra Bathroom Tallboy offer generous storage without taking up too much floor space, making them ideal for both small and large bathrooms.

For larger bathrooms, you might want something with a tallboy design, like the Rimini Tall Boy Cabinet, which allows you to store more while keeping your essentials neatly tucked away.

The key to efficient storage is choosing a unit with a layout that works for you — deep drawers for bulky items, and smaller sections for daily necessities.

Common pitfalls to avoid:

• Choosing style over function: Beautiful design is important, but make sure the unit also meets your storage needs. Do you have a family that needs space for towels and toiletries?
• Underestimating storage depth: Not all drawers or compartments are created equal. If you store larger items like extra toilet rolls or cleaning bottles, you’ll need a unit with deeper, more spacious drawers.
• Forgetfulness with organisational tools: Adding a few drawer organisers or a shelving unit inside your vanity can make a huge difference. Without this, even the best-designed unit can end up cluttered and hard to use.

By thinking ahead about your specific storage needs and how you use your bathroom day to day, you can make sure your vanity is both functional and stylish.

You’ll be amazed at how much more organised your space can feel — even with the same amount of stuff.

4. Materials & finish matter

When selecting a vanity unit, the materials and finish are just as important as the design and size.

The right finish can dramatically change the feel of your bathroom, as well as its functionality and longevity.

A well-chosen unit can resist moisture, maintain its appearance over time, and complement your overall décor.

But getting it wrong can lead to issues like water damage, frequent cleaning, or even early wear and tear.

Start by considering the moisture resistance of the materials.

Bathrooms are damp spaces, and choosing materials that can handle moisture without warping or discolouring is key.

Gloss finishes, like those found in the Bora Wall Hung 1 Drawer Vanity Unit, reflect light, making your bathroom feel bigger and brighter while being easy to wipe down and keep clean.

Similarly, ceramic basins are durable and highly resistant to staining — making them a popular choice.

On the other hand, matte finishes and natural wood veneers (such as those in the Lucca Bathroom Cabinet) are on trend for their contemporary, elegant feel.

However, they do require more care to maintain their aesthetic over time, especially in humid environments.

When choosing materials, don’t forget the hardware — handles, hinges, and taps.

Opting for quality materials such as brushed stainless steel or solid brass ensures longevity and prevents rust.

Units like the CORTA Floorstanding 60cm Two Drawer Unit -Chrome Handles are designed with sleek, durable chrome handles that add an extra touch of style while being easy to maintain.

Common pitfalls to avoid:

• Choosing poor-quality finishes: It’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, but vanity units with low-quality finishes may not last, especially in high-moisture areas. Materials like cheap MDF or particle board can warp, swell, or stain over time.
• Underestimating cleaning needs: Glossy finishes are much easier to clean than textured or matte ones, which may require more frequent attention to maintain their appearance. If you're keen on a sleek look with minimal cleaning, a glossy finish could be your best option.
• Mixing incompatible materials: While contrast can be beautiful, mixing too many finishes (like matte and glossy) without cohesion can lead to a chaotic or mismatched look. Try to keep finishes in the same family or coordinate with your taps and accessories for a more streamlined effect.

The materials and finishes you choose are essential for both aesthetic appeal and long-term durability.

They determine not just how your vanity looks but how easy it is to maintain and how well it will stand up to the rigours of daily use.

5. Coordinating extras

When selecting your vanity unit, don't forget that it's just one part of your bathroom’s overall look.

Accessories, mirrors, and storage units can elevate the space and help tie everything together.

A well-chosen set of extras can turn a good bathroom into a great one, enhancing both its functionality and its aesthetic appeal.

Start by thinking about the overall theme or vibe you want to create.

If you’ve gone for a sleek, modern vanity, consider complementing it with a matching mirror like the Lucca Mirror Bathroom Cabinet, which adds a touch of elegance while providing additional storage.

The mirror can also enhance the sense of space, making smaller bathrooms appear larger.

For those looking to maximise their storage options, tallboy cabinets like the Lucca Tall Bathroom Cabinet offer the perfect solution.

These vertical storage pieces are ideal for smaller bathrooms, where horizontal space is limited.

Pair them with your vanity for a coordinated look that doesn't sacrifice function for style.

When selecting additional accessories such as towel rails, lighting, or shelving, keep the materials and finishes of your vanity unit in mind.

If you’ve chosen a dark, matte vanity, look for brushed or matte metal accents for a cohesive, understated feel.

On the other hand, if you’ve selected a gloss white vanity, chrome or polished hardware can create a fresh, modern contrast.

Common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overloading the space with accessories: While coordinating extras are important, be careful not to overcrowd your bathroom with too many items. Too many matching elements can feel overwhelming and clutter the space. Keep your accessories minimal and choose pieces that complement your vanity without overshadowing it.
• Choosing mismatched materials: If your vanity is made from a glossy, white finish, a rustic wooden towel rail may not be the best match. Ensure your extra pieces either match the same finish or offer a complementary contrast. Think about balance — for example, pairing a dark wood vanity with matte metal hardware for a more balanced, cohesive look.
• Not considering the practicality of accessories: It’s tempting to focus solely on appearance, but make sure your extras are functional as well. A stylish mirror should also be easy to clean, and your towel rail should be at the right height for convenience. Similarly, ensure your tallboy or cabinet is easy to access and doesn’t block your vanity unit or other elements.

By choosing coordinating extras that match your vanity in both material and style, you create a unified look that enhances your bathroom’s overall atmosphere.

Whether you’re adding mirrors, cabinets, or other decorative items, the right pieces can elevate your space without overwhelming it.

Final thoughts: Your perfect vanity unit awaits

At the end of the day, a little planning goes a long way.

Whether you’re updating a small cloakroom or redesigning a spacious family bathroom, the perfect vanity unit can transform your space into a sanctuary of style and practicality.

Our experts are here to help, so if you have any questions or need guidance, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

We’re always happy to assist you in finding the ideal solution for your bathroom!