10 Questions About Floating Bathroom Vanities

25 Aug.,2025

 

10 Questions About Floating Bathroom Vanities

Floating vanities are becoming increasingly popular in modern bathrooms. They offer a unique look and open up the floor space, which many small bathrooms can benefit from. They also add to modern design, and there’s something for just about everyone with the selection available today.

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Are you curious about floating bathroom vanities but unsure if they’re right for you? Here are 10 of the most common questions people ask about floating vanities to help you better understand what they offer and whether they fit your design.

48 Inch Single Sink Bathroom Vanity in Latte Oak with Electrical Component

1. What are the benefits of a floating vanity?

Floating vanities work great for small spaces because they open up the floor space. Narrow, shallow cabinets are also ideal for tiny homes, which are trending now. Having the vanity off the floor also eliminates the worry about damaging the bottom of it if it gets wet. These vanities also fit perfectly into contemporary designs popular in modern bathrooms.

2. What are the cons of floating cabinets?

Floating vanity cabinets don’t have a lot of drawbacks. They require special and careful installation with extra securing to the studs in the wall and will have weight limits on what you can put on the counter. However, these aren’t usually enough to be prohibitive in any way. They may also have less storage than other vanity cabinets, but that’s dependent upon the cabinet you choose. Finally, floating vanities are not ideal in homes with small children as climbing on them can be a safety risk.

60 Inch Blue Double Sink Wall Mounted Bathroom Vanity

3. What height should a floating vanity be?

Wall-hung vanities typically come in three standard height options: 21, 24, and 27 inches. The plumbing height will determine what height vanity you choose and how high off the floor it is installed. If you opt for the standard 34 inch height and select a 24 inch vanity, your floating cabinet will be installed 10 inches off the floor. Several factors come into play here, so it is best to consult the experts before buying and installing this type of vanity.

Related: Floating Bathroom Vanities: What You Need To Know

4. Do you tile behind a floating vanity?

Typically, as with most vanities, you can skip finishing the wall behind the cabinet. This space is going to be covered and will never be seen. Plus, tiling can make it even more challenging to access the plumbing if something goes wrong. You should tile above the vanity, below it, and on both sides. However, you do not need to tile behind the cabinet itself. That’s more of a wasted effort than anything.

40 Inch Modern Azure Blue Floating Single Sink Bath Vanity

5. How are floating vanities supported?

Floating vanities are supported by their structural design and how they are installed on the wall. Usually, contractors will add blocking to the wall to provide additional support for a floating vanity, but this can cost more because it requires opening up the wall behind the cabinet. The cabinet will be secured to studs and any added blocking to ensure it is properly supported.

6. How do you hide pipes under a floating vanity?

Like most vanity cabinets, floating vanities usually have a cutout for plumbing or an area that can be cut out to provide access to the plumbing under the sink(s). If your pipes run down closer to the floor than the vanity will cover, you might choose a different style or consider adding extra features to hide the pipes completely.

In some instances, you might decide that you need to relocate the plumbing. If so, you must discuss this with your contractor and/or plumber to determine the best option for the new cabinet.

59 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity in Glossy White with Radiant Gold Pulls

7. Are wall-hung vanities safe?

Wall-hung vanities are completely safe if properly installed and secured to the wall. These cabinets have weight limits that must be followed, including the weight of the countertop material you choose. That’s why additional blocking is sometimes required with installation—heavy materials like marble might require extra support.

Related: Bathroom Trends For

8. Are floating vanities good for small bathrooms?

Floating vanities are ideal for small bathrooms. Not only do they free up floor space, but there are shallow cabinets that also don’t stick out as far, giving the room even more space than a traditional vanity cabinet could offer. If you choose a white vanity, it can even open up the space more by reflecting light off the cabinet and floor, creating the illusion of a bigger room.

9. How much weight can a floating vanity hold?

Each vanity will have its own weight limit. However, most vanities range around 200-220 pounds, while those made of solid wood could hold up to 300 pounds or more. This depends on the cabinet, its installation, and other factors. Ensure that the cabinet and the counter are factored into the weight limit. Don’t let children sit on the vanity for several reasons, including that it could be a safety risk related to the weight limit.

Related: How To Get The Most Space From A Small Bathroom

10. Can you put granite on a wall-hung vanity?

Granite is a popular choice for wall-hung vanities and other bathroom vanities. It’s been a popular selection for kitchens and baths for several years, and for good reason. Granite is durable, and every slab is unique because it’s a natural stone. It looks great with floating vanities because it lends to the modern, sleek look that they are known for. Plus, because it comes in several colors and styles, you can get a look as unique as your taste.

72 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity in Ash Gray with Electrical Component

The Final Call

So, you have everything you need to know about floating bathroom vanities to determine whether they’re the right choice for your bathroom upgrade. Remember to compare all the options, and if you do choose floating vanities, have them professionally installed for safety and proper function.

6 Tips for Building a Custom Bathroom Vanity - Buildmat

If you're tired of squeezing your things into a vanity that was never designed for your space, it might be time to build your own. A custom vanity gives you more than just style options – it gives you the chance to choose the size, storage, basin placement, and finish that actually work for how you use your bathroom.

At Buildmat, we make customising your vanity easy. You can start with a wall-hung or freestanding vanity base, then choose everything from your benchtop and basin position to the handle shape and colour. Here’s how to get it right.

You can customise this gorgeous mm wall-hung ADP vanity to suit your bathroom.

How to Build a Custom Vanity 

1. Start with your vanity size

Before you choose colours or finishes, lock in the size that works for your space. That means looking beyond what technically fits and thinking about how the vanity will feel in the room, especially when you’re using it every day. At Buildmat, custom vanities are available in widths from 465mm to mm, so you can find the right fit for everything from powder rooms to dual-basin master ensuites.

What to consider:

  • Wall width: Measure the wall where the vanity will sit, then subtract any skirting, pipe boxing or wall features.
  • Front clearance: Leave at least 600mm in front of the vanity so you can stand, open doors or drawers and not feel cramped.
  • Side clearance: Allow enough space between the vanity and nearby walls, showers or toilets – 150–300mm is a safe buffer.
  • Door and drawer swing: Make sure the unit won’t block other fixtures when opened.

Popular custom vanity sizes

  • 465mm freestanding vanity to 600mm freestanding vanity: Great for powder rooms or tight ensuites. or
    ???? Try: Aulic Maya 600mm Floorstanding Vanity or Aulic Revit 465mm Floorstanding Vanity
  • 750mm freestanding vanity – The sweet spot for most small-to-medium bathrooms
    ???? Try: Aulic Max 750mm Floorstanding Vanity
  • Freestanding bathroom vanity 900mm – More bench space, better storage, still compact
    ???? Try: Aulic Leona 900mm Floorstanding Vanity
  • Bathroom vanity mm freestanding – Ideal for couples or busy bathrooms with shared use
    ???? Try: Aulic Alice mm Floorstanding Vanity
  • mm freestanding vanity to mm freestanding vanity  – Best for large bathrooms, master en-suites or when you want a double basin setup or
    ???? Try: Aulic mm Varcelli Floor Standing Vanity or Aulic mm Varcelli Floor Standing Vanity

Once you’ve nailed the size, you can focus on the customisation details like the bench top, basin, finish and more.

Freestanding vanities are a popular option for traditional bathrooms. 

3. Choose between a freestanding vanity and a wall-hung vanity 

Once you’ve chosen your size, the next step is deciding whether your vanity should be a wall-hung or freestanding vanity. Both styles are fully customisable at Buildmat, but they offer different looks, install requirements, and storage setups.

Wall-hung vanities

Mounted off the floor, these give your bathroom a clean, floating look and make the room feel more open, especially in small or narrow layouts.

Best for:

  • Modern, minimalist or small bathrooms
  • Easy-to-clean floors
  • Visual lightness in compact spaces

Tip: You’ll need a solid wall or blocking to support the weight. This can be sorted at rough-in stage during a renovation.

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Freestanding vanities

These sit directly on the floor and often suit more traditional or transitional bathrooms. They’re easier to install in homes with floor plumbing, and they give the room a more grounded, built-in feel.

Best for:

  • Classic or family-style bathrooms
  • Where plumbing comes through the floor
  • Heavier benchtop or double-bowl setups

Freestanding units don’t require wall bracing, so they’re often a smoother install in existing builds.

3. Choose your benchtop 

When you build a custom vanity with Buildmat, the benchtop isn’t locked in. Depending on the range you choose, you can pick from a wide selection of surfaces, from classic ceramic to premium solid surfaces in stone-inspired finishes.

Your options may include:

  • Crystal Ceramic – a glossy, durable surface that’s easy to clean and suits most bathroom styles
  • Stone-style tops like Cato, Snow, Palis or Pure – soft matte finishes that bring texture without being heavy
  • Premium solid surfaces like Cherry Pie or Durasein – available on select ADP vanities and perfect for a seamless, high-end look

Some custom vanities include the benchtop with a basin cut-out, while others let you customise the position or choose a top-only cabinet so you can pair it with an above-counter basin.

How to choose the right top for your bathroom style

Your vanity top has a big impact on the look and feel of the room. Here’s how to narrow it down:

  • For a bright, clean space: Go for a white ceramic or solid surface like Cherry Pie Bright White. These reflect light and work well with chrome or brushed nickel tapware.
  • For a soft, natural feel: Try a matte stone-style top in warm tones. These pair beautifully with timber-look cabinetry and brushed brass or black fixtures.
  • For a statement look: Go bolder with terrazzo-style tops or veined finishes like Calacatta. Pair with sleek matte black tapware and a sculptural basin.

Need a basin to match? Browse our bathroom basins and tapware collection to complete your setup.

4. Pick a basin style and placement 

When you build a custom vanity, you don’t have to work around a pre-cut basin,  you get to choose what fits your layout and how you actually use the space. Depending on the vanity range, you can go for above-counter, undermount, or top-only (no basin included). Many styles also let you choose the basin position – centred, or offset to the left or right.

What to consider:

  • Centre bowl: Best for symmetrical layouts or when one person is using the space. It keeps things balanced and works well with mirrors and overhead lighting.
  • Offset bowl: Ideal if you need more bench space on one side – for styling, shared use, or awkward wall positions. Available on vanities like the ADP Waverley range.
  • Double bowl: Great for wider vanities (like mm or mm) in shared ensuites. Just make sure your plumbing can support it and you have enough wall space for mirrors above.

Basin style options:

  • Above-counter basins. Sit on top of the vanity and make more of a statement. Great for modern bathrooms and pairing with wall-mounted taps.
  • Undermount basins. Seamless and easy to clean — ideal for a clean, low-profile look with solid surface tops.
  • No basin (top-only). Gives you full freedom to pair your favourite basin and choose your tap and waste layout. Perfect for more design-led spaces.

Browse Buildmat’s basin collection to find styles that match your top and tapware.

5. Choose your finish and handle style

Once you’ve locked in the layout, size, basin and top, it’s time to make the vanity feel like yours. Buildmat’s custom vanity options give you control over both the cabinet finish and the handle style, or you can go completely handle-free with push-to-open drawers for a cleaner look.

Cabinet finishes

Depending on the range, you can choose from:

  • Matte white – clean, timeless, and suits almost any tile or tapware
  • Woodgrain finishes – from soft Coastal Oak to deeper tones like Florentine Walnut or Prime Oak V-Groove, ideal for Japandi or organic styles
  • Textured V-Groove panels – available on ADP vanities like the Waverley range, perfect for adding a subtle, tactile detail without going full shaker-style

Tip: Wood-look cabinets pair well with matte black tapware or brushed brass tapware, while white or ultra-light cabinetry works best with chrome or brushed nickel.

Handle options

Some vanities include handles as standard. Others, like many ADP models, let you select from:

  • Aria – a modern, curved profile in finishes like matte black, brushed nickel or brushed brass
  • Francis – slightly chunkier, classic shape with a bit more presence
  • Blaze – sleek and minimal, available in white, black and metal finishes
  • Push-to-open – handle-free drawers for a cleaner, more minimalist look

Your handle finish should tie back to your basin tapware and accessories, or contrast softly if you’re layering tones.

6. Tapware, waste and final touches

Once your vanity is sorted with the size, top, basin, finish, and handles, it’s time to bring the whole look together. The right tapware and waste finish can make your custom vanity feel polished and cohesive.

Tapware placement

Depending on your basin and benchtop, your tapware will either be:

  • Bench-mounted – easiest with above-counter basins
  • Wall-mounted – great for a minimalist look or if you want to keep the benchtop clean

Make sure your plumbing matches the setup you choose, and keep in mind where the basin is positioned (centre or offset) when aligning your tapware.

Browse vanity tapware options

Waste finish

If you’ve chosen your own basin, make sure the basin waste plug matches your tapware and any handles or accessories. Buildmat stocks pop-up wastes and plug-and-waste sets in chrome, matte black, brushed brass, brushed nickel and gunmetal.

Don’t forget...

  • Mirrors – round or pill-shaped mirrors help soften the vanity zone
  • Wall lights – if your basin is offset, consider asymmetric wall lighting to balance it
  • Towel rails and robe hooks – match these with your handle or tapware finish for consistency
A custom vanity gives you more control over the little details that make a difference. 

Why Should You Build a Custom Vanity?

Customising your bathroom vanity gives you something off-the-shelf models rarely can: the exact combination of size, storage, style and functionality you need for your space. Whether you're dealing with a tricky layout, need more benchtop room, or just want something that looks like it was made for your bathroom (because it was), going custom means you don’t have to settle.

Benefits of a custom vanity:

  • Made to fit – no wasted space or awkward gaps
  • More size options – from 465mm vanities all the way to mm bathroom vanities
  • Control over the details – pick your top, basin style, finish and handles
  • Storage that suits your routine – drawers, cupboards, open shelves, or a mix
  • Looks intentional – a better match for your tapware, bathroom tiles and overall style

Start Building Your Custom Vanity Today

Whether you’re planning a full bathroom reno or just want a vanity that actually works for your space, Buildmat makes customising easy. Choose your size, top, basin position, finish and fittings, all in one place. 

Start building your custom vanity

FAQs

Can I choose where the basin goes?

Yes, many custom vanities let you choose a centre, left, or right offset basin layout. This is ideal if you need extra bench space or want to align plumbing with your existing setup.

Do custom vanities come with a basin and tapware?

It depends on the range. Some come as cabinet only, some with a top but no basin, and others let you select basin and tapware separately. Always check what’s included or customise your setup during the order process.

How long does a custom vanity take to arrive?

Most custom vanities take 3 to 6 weeks, depending on finishes, supplier lead times, and your location. If you’re working to a renovation timeline, check ETA before finalising your order.

Can I customise wall-hung and freestanding vanities?

Yes, Buildmat offers full customisation across both wall-hung and freestanding vanities in widths from 465mm to mm.

How much does a custom vanity cost?

It depends on the size, top, and finish you choose. At Buildmat, custom vanities start from around $460 for a compact cabinet and can go up to $4,600+ for premium, double-bowl styles with solid surface tops. Expect to pay more for larger widths (mm, mm, mm), stone-look or solid surface benchtops, and optional extras like basins, handles, or plug & waste kits

More Helpful Tips on Choosing a Bathroom Vanity

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If you are looking for more details, kindly visit custom floating vanity.