BATHROOM VANITY SINKS

When putting together your bathroom layout you need to consider the placement of a few key pieces; the toilet, tub/shower and the bathroom vanity sink. The vanity can be a lot of things. It can be free standing, have storage built in, or even contain more than one sink.

Most bathrooms just have one vanity sink, but the new homes being built, especially in the upscale neighborhoods, are going with a his and hers idea by having two sinks available. But having two sinks doesn't do you any good if you're standing so close together that you're fighting for elbow room. There are some options available in order to avoid this. If you are forced into focusing on the discount vanity first, you may have to sacrifice some of your desires.

1. You could make the vanities different heights, perhaps one as a dressing table and one of regular height.
2. Be sure to leave at least 30 inches (a little more is better) between the centers of each sink.
3. Consider door and drawer sizes that are appropriate for a two sink design. You want them to be spaced appropriately and evenly.

The vanity sink may be small but it plays a big role in the overall design and function of the bathroom. You should consider both its design and functions when shopping for your perfect style. There are two main choices: vanity mounted or free standing. Many victorian style homes go with the free standing option as it takes up the least amount of space and tends to look more delicate. The drawback is a complete lack of storage. If you do choose a victorian style be sure to get sink faucet hardware to match. Clunky faucets wouldn't look right against a delicate 4 pedastal sink.

Freestanding sinks are the best choice for small bathrooms such as those in apartments and small secondary bathrooms. Don't forget this can also leave the plumbing exposed so you'll need to be sure those pipes are clean and well maintained both for aesthetics and safety.

Vanity mounted sinks can be done several ways:

• Self-rimming sinks
• Rimmed sinks
• Integral sinks
• under mounted sinks
• Flush mounted
• countertop sinks

Sinks can be made from a variety of materials including:

• stainless steel
• enameled steel
• china
• cultured marble
• Corian
• cast iron that's been enameled

The pros and cons of each will depend on your particular design and function needs.