Floating Bathroom Vanity Ideas Stylish & Functional Vanities

A floating vanity can totally transform the look and feel of your bathroom. These stylish vanities are mounted directly to the wall, creating the illusion that they are “floating”. Not only do they add a modern, sleek aesthetic, but floating vanities also give the impression of a larger, airier space. With the plumbing fixtures and extra storage out of view, a floating vanity minimizes visual clutter.

Floating vanities offer versatility in design to complement any decor. You can find these vanities in a range of materials from wood to marble to metal. The minimal silhouettes pair well with contemporary spaces, but there are also more transitional styles available to blend into traditional bathrooms. When shopping for your floating vanity, consider the size and layout of your bathroom as well as the overall style you want to achieve.

We’ve gathered some of our favorite floating bathroom vanity ideas to provide inspiration for your next remodel. Read on for stylish design tips and important factors to weigh when installing a floating vanity in your home.

Benefits of Choosing a Floating Vanity

Installing a floating vanity offers many advantages:

Visually expands smaller bathrooms – Removing vanity legs and raising the cabinet gives the illusion of more space. The airy, open look makes even tight bathrooms appear larger.
Provides a contemporary vibe – Floating vanities lend a sleek, modern aesthetic that works well with contemporary design. The minimalist silhouette keeps the focus on materials and finishes.
Allows for easier cleaning – Without vanity legs in the way, you can easily sweep and mop underneath for a sparkling clean floor. Floating also prevents dust buildup on vanity legs.
Adds flexibility – Some floating vanity designs allow you to mount the vanity higher or lower depending on your needs. You can also more freely reposition a floating vanity.
Hides plumbing – No vanity legs means all the plumbing is concealed out of view behind the cabinet for a streamlined look.

If you’re looking to upgrade your bathroom with a clean, modern style, a floating vanity is a great option to consider. The minimalist design makes the most of small spaces and allows for creative finishes. Keep reading for important installation tips and stylish floating vanity ideas.

Tips for Installing a Floating Bathroom Vanity

Installing a floating vanity requires securing the structure directly to wall studs. While this creates the unique floating look, it also means the vanity won’t be going anywhere. Follow these tips to properly install your floating bathroom vanity:

Find the wall studs – This is an essential first step. Using a stud finder, locate the wood studs within your wall and mark them. You’ll attach the mounting brackets directly into the studs.
Gather the necessary supplies – You’ll need vanity mounting brackets, screws, and the tools to secure the screws into the wall studs like a drill, screw gun, level, etc. Mounting kits generally include most of what you need.
Use at least 3 mounting points – For proper support, it’s best to use 3+ mounting brackets spaced out across the width of the vanity. Follow the manufacturer instructions for exact placement.
Ensure it’s level – After securing the first mounting screw, check that the vanity is level before adding the remaining mounting screws. Adjust and recheck as needed.
Seal edges to wall – Any gaps between the vanity and wall should be sealed with caulk for both visual appeal and to prevent moisture issues.
Add reinforcements – For extra strength, place a horizontal board connected to the wall studs behind where the vanity will mount. This provides reinforcement for the floating design.

Installing a floating vanity takes precision, so be sure to follow all the manufacturer’s directions. Take it slow and double check your work as you go for best results.

Stylish Floating Bathroom Vanity Ideas

Floating vanities allow you to make a statement in your bathroom. Here are some standout floating vanity styles to inspire your next remodel:

Wood Floating Vanity

Wood vanities provide warmth and texture, adding to the natural vibe. Opt for wood with distinctive grain patterns or add floating shelves for display space. Pair it with marble or concrete countertops for visual contrast. The rich wood grain juxtaposed against sleek surfaces makes for an eye-catching focal point.

Wood vanities, like this reclaimed barnwood style, bring warmth and texture to contemporary bathrooms. Source

Black Floating Vanity

For a super modern look, opt for a black floating vanity. Matte black finishes complement marble, natural wood, concrete, and porcelain in elegant contrast. The deep hue makes it a dramatic focal point. Add metal accents and modern hardware for an industrial edge.

A black floating vanity makes a bold statement against bright walls and floors. Source

Metal Floating Vanity

For contemporary loft spaces and modern designs, a sleek metal floating vanity is a perfect match. Stainless steel or powder-coated steel finished in matte black, white, or bold hues lend an edgy, industrial vibe. Pair with concrete or stone countertops to complement the cool metal tones.

A metal floating vanity adds an industrial edge and comes in a range of color finishes. Source

Concrete Floating Vanity

For an ultra modern, minimalist look, try a floating vanity crafted from concrete. The chunky, organic material pairs well with woods and metals to balance the masculinity. Built-in shelves allow you to display candles, plants, baskets, or decorative objects.

A concrete floating vanity makes a statement with its raw, industrial edge. Source

Curved Floating Vanity

For a softer look, try a floating vanity with a curved silhouette. The rounded edges provide a shapely, streamlined appearance that is still decidedly modern. Opt for lacquered finishes in glossy hues paired with marble or quartz countertops.

A curved floating vanity adds softness and fluidity to the contemporary space. Source

Wall-to-Wall Floating Vanity

Extending your floating vanity the entire width of your bathroom maximizes storage and creates a built-in look. Adding floating shelves and sconces on either side enhances the spa-like ambiance. Ideal for larger bathrooms.

A wall-to-wall floating vanity provides abundant storage space. Source

Floating Vanity Island

For large bathrooms, a floating vanity island makes a bold statement. With plumbing and storage on all sides, multiple people can use it at once. The dimensions can be customized, so the island feels cohesive within the overall space.

A floating vanity island creates ample storage and counter space in big bathrooms. Source

Choosing the Right Floating Vanity

With so many options, keep the following in mind when selecting a floating vanity:

Bathroom dimensions – Scale the vanity size and position to your bathroom layout. Measure to ensure it fits the space appropriately.
Desired look – Decide on the overall style you want and choose a vanity to match. Modern textures like concrete and metal or traditional styles like carved wood offer different vibes.
Storage needs – Consider how much storage space you need for bath essentials. Look for vanities with internal shelves and drawer configurations that work for you.
Budget – Prices range widely based on size, materials, and quality. Determine how much you can allocate towards your floating vanity.
Finish options – Many companies offer customizable finishes so you can match existing hardware and fixtures. Be sure to ask about available finish choices before purchasing.

Take the time to carefully evaluate which floating vanity best suits your bathroom design, storage needs, and style preferences before installation. The wide variety of options allows you to achieve your dream look.

FAQs About Floating Bathroom Vanities

Are floating vanities harder to install?

Floating vanities generally require more effort to securely mount them directly on the wall. The installation must hit wall studs to properly support the weight. Hanging vanities also often involves an additional horizontal board anchored to the studs for reinforcement.

Do you need more storage with a floating vanity?

Open shelving and cabinets around the bathroom can supplement storage since floating vanities themselves tend to offer less storage space than traditional vanities sitting on legs. Strategically adding extra open or closed storage can offset this difference.

Should I get a single or double floating vanity?

The number of sinks depends on your bathroom size and how many people will be using the space. For master bathrooms and larger spaces, a double vanity provides convenience for two people getting ready at once. Smaller baths often better accommodate a streamlined single floating vanity.

Can you add legs to a floating vanity later?

It is possible to add legs down the road, but you would see screw holes from the original mounted position. The legs also change the overall look. Floating installation is meant to be permanent, so decide if you can live with the floating style long-term before installing.

Should I get porcelain or ceramic sinks with a floating vanity?

With less visual mass underneath, you want durable, lightweight sinks that align with the minimalist look. Glossy porcelain generally suits the streamlined style better than ceramic. However, matte ceramic could also work well depending on the design. Ask to see material samples before purchasing.

The Takeaway

Floating bathroom vanities immediately modernize the look and feel of your space. The minimalist silhouette expands visual space and focuses attention on sleek finishes. There are seemingly endless options to find the perfect floating vanity to match your bathroom’s size and style – whether modern industrial metal, warm traditional wood, or curvy lacquered contemporary.

Keep practical needs like storage in mind as you explore stylish designs. And don’t forget the importance of proper installation supported by wall studs. With good planning and some creativity, a floating vanity can totally transform your bathroom into a calming contemporary oasis!