Floating Vanity Units: Pros and Cons
Want to give your bathroom a bit of a spring makeover? Before you go browse our stylish bath coverings, floating vanity units might just be the low-maintenance upgrade you need. These wall-mounted fixtures can dramatically alter your bathroom's appearance and functionality, but they're not suited to every space or preference. Let's take a closer look at what makes these units special and whether they might be right for your next renovation project.
What Are Floating Vanity Units?
If you're not familiar with floating vanities (also called wall-mounted or wall-hung units), they're basically bathroom cabinets that are mounted directly to your wall instead of sitting on the floor. This creates that cool "floating" effect that's become super popular in modern homes across the UK. They typically include your sink and some storage space while maintaining that sleek, elevated look that can really transform your bathroom's vibe.
Pros of Floating Vanity Units
Space-Saving and Enhanced Floor Space
The standout benefit of floating vanity units is undoubtedly their space-efficient design. When you mount the cabinet off the floor, you'll immediately notice how much more open your bathroom feels. The visible floor area underneath creates a sense of flow and makes even the smallest bathrooms feel less cramped—perfect for those awkward en-suites or compact powder rooms where maximising visual space matters.
Customisation and Flexibility
Floating vanity units offer remarkable flexibility in terms of installation height. Unlike floor-standing models that come at a fixed height, wall-mounted units can be positioned at whatever level best suits the primary users.
Improved Accessibility
For households with mobility considerations, floating vanity units can be a game-changer. The space beneath allows wheelchair users to get closer to the sink without obstruction. We've seen many clients choose these units specifically because they provide knee clearance while maintaining a stylish appearance - proving that practical accessibility features needn't compromise on style.
Cons of Floating Vanity Units
Installation Complexity and Cost
Let's be honest—installing floating vanity units requires more technical expertise than their floor-standing counterparts. The wall needs proper reinforcement to support the weight of the unit, especially when it's loaded with toiletries and regularly used. This typically means you'll need a professional installation, which adds to the overall cost. The structural requirements can also make retrofitting these units into older properties more challenging and potentially more expensive.
Weight Limitations and Durability Concerns
Even with proper installation, floating vanity units have inherent weight restrictions. You'll need to be mindful of how much you store in them, as overloading can strain the wall mountings over time. While modern fixings are remarkably strong, they simply can't match the weight-bearing capacity of units that transfer their load directly to the floor. For busy family bathrooms that store numerous heavy items, this could potentially become an issue.
Storage Space Constraints
The sleek design of floating vanity units often means sacrificing some storage space. Compared to floor-standing alternatives that often extend from floor to ceiling, wall-mounted options generally offer less volume for storing towels, cleaning supplies, and those countless toiletries we all seem to accumulate. If you're someone who needs maximum storage capacity, you might find yourself supplementing with additional bathroom storage solutions.
Wall Support Requirements
Not every bathroom wall is suitable for supporting a floating vanity unit. Stud walls may require additional reinforcement, while some partition walls simply won't be strong enough, regardless of modifications. Before setting your heart on a floating design, you'll need to assess your bathroom's wall construction. In older properties particularly, this can sometimes present unexpected complications that might force a rethink of your bathroom design.
Final Thoughts
Floating vanity units can be absolutely fantastic for many bathrooms. They look modern, save space, make cleaning easier, and can be adapted to suit your specific needs. But they're not perfect for everyone – the installation complexity, weight limitations, and storage constraints mean they might not be the best choice for every home or lifestyle.
To ensure it’s the right fit, we’d highly recommend that you check out our essential guide to buying vanity units before splashing the cash on any new piece of bathroom storage - whether it be floating or gravity-bound!