Selecting the right bathroom cabinets is one of the most significant decisions to make when designing your bathroom. Cabinets establish the tone for the whole area, and also serve as a shape and function. But let's be honest — the perfect bathroom cabinets are tricky! You want some stylish, functional, practical all in one, right?
Trust me, I get it. But here's the good news: it can be a lot simpler than you may think! Just like decorating the perfect Christmas tree (yes, I'm going there), there are tried and true interior designers tips and tricks to help you choose the best fit for your space.
Now, I know you're probably thinking: where do I even start? What should I consider? And how do I make my bathroom look like it's from a design magazine? Rest assured that I have a solution for you! In this post, we're going to take a deep dive into bathroom cabinetry, guiding you step by step through the process of how to choose cabinets like a pro.
THE REASON WHY BATHROOM CABINETS ARE SO IMPORTANT?
Before we dive into the specifics, let's discuss why bathroom cabinets are essential to your bathroom design. It's more than just storage. Bathroom cabinets for design statement in your space Whether you're working with a small powder room or a large master bath, the cabinets you bring in will affect the overall style, function and even the vibe of the space. Consider them the structural elements of your bathroom design.
Not only that, the right cabinetry helps keep your bathroom organized — believe me, every interior designer knows better that hype of a beautifully designed space can get extinguished at once because of clutter. So getting the cabinet choice right not only makes sense aesthetically, but practically as well.
But here's the thing — it's not just about aesthetics; it's about striking the right balance between style and efficiency. And cabinetry well-chosen can do more than transform your bathroom. So, let's talk about how to do that!
THE GAME-CHANGERS: CHANGING THE VIBE OF YOUR BATHROOM
To select bathroom cabinets like an interior designer, however, first, you must set the tone for the room. What type of vibe do you want in your bathroom? Modern and sleek? Warm and traditional? Or maybe something minimalist with sharp lines? Your bathroom's vibe will have a big impact on the types of cabinets that will suit it best.
Know Your Style
Your bathroom style will first help decide the type of cabinetry you should aim for. Are you more of a modern, minimalist design kind of person, or are you more of a classic, traditional person? Or perhaps you fall somewhere in the middle? Understanding the style you're drawn to will help you narrow down possibilities and make it significantly easier to select cabinets that fit your overall vision.
So, for instance, if you want a more contemporary feel, a sleek vanity cabinet with flat-fronted, minimalist cabinets would probably suit the bill. If you're a little more traditional maybe you'll choose cabinets that have some ornate detailing, whether that's raised panel doors or shaker-style designs.
IT'S ABOUT SIZE: MEASUREMENT FIRST, CONDITIONING LATER
The size of bathroom cabinets is everything when it comes to choosing the perfect option. If you have a small bathroom you'll want to stay away from bulky cabinets that can make your space feel cramped. Conversely, if you have big bathroom, you can do cabinets with a little more spice.
Measure, measure, measure! Before you even start thinking about different styles or finishes, first take measurements of the available space in your bathroom. Think about the following:
- How much space do you need to store?
- Will the cabinet fit without blocking doors, windows, or other features in the room?
- How much counter space do you need?
When you have proper dimensions, you can now filter choices with respect to size. Trust me, there's nothing worse than falling in love with a cabinet only to find out that it's far too big for your bathroom.
FUNCTIONALITY: BEAUTY WITH A REASON
Now that you have a sense of your bathroom style and size, let's discuss functionality. After all, what use is a beautiful cabinet if it doesn't serve your purpose? A cabinet that not only looks good but is also functional. Here are some important questions to ask yourself before you decide:
- Do I need more storage space?
- What will I put in the cupboard? Towels? Toiletries? Cleaning supplies?
- Do I want open shelving, or closed cabinetry?
Interior designers are always extolling cabinets that make the most of storage without sacrificing style. Consider if you want drawers (which are super helpful for storing smaller items) or if you'd prefer open shelving (which Works great for decorative items, like candles or plants).
In tighter bathrooms, you might look at cabinets that can also act as a mirror or serve as a medicine cabinet. In bigger bathrooms, you may prefer a vanity with several drawers or a cabinet with added shelving for linen, as well as other priorities.
MATERIALS AND FINISHES: THE LUXURY FEEL
Having touched on size and function, let's get to the good stuff: selecting the right materials and finishes for your cabinets. The material that you opt for can give a completely different feel to your bathroom, so you need to make the right choice. Here are several common materials and finishes to keep in mind:
- Wood: A timeless option that brings warmth and sophistication to any bath. Oak, maple, or even reclaimed wood would work great for a rustic, farmhouse-style bathroom. Dark wood tones can have a dramatic effect, while light woods lend a fresh, airy vibe.
- Laminate: For those on a budget, laminate cabinets can still come off as a costly investment. They require minimal maintenance, and come in a wide range of styles and finishes.
- Metal: If you prefer a contemporary, industrial aesthetic, metal cabinets (such as stainless steel or brushed nickel) are a good choice. They provide a sleek, modern vibe to your bathroom.
- Matte vs. Glossy Finishes: The cabinet finish can affect how light behaves in a room. Matte finishes are more nuanced and understated versus gloss, which reflects light, making the space feel brighter and more open.
COLOR: MAKING A STATEMENT
Selecting the best color for your bathroom cabinets is a major decision. After all, this is what people will see the moment they step into your bathroom. A classic white will always be a safe bet and can keep your bathroom feeling fresh and clean, but don't shy away from thinking outside the box.
If you are looking for a more dramatic feel, contemporary and interior designers suggest using bold and rich colours since they tend to provide a very rich and luxurious touch. Deep blues, forest greens, even charcoal greys can provide a touch of sophistication and give your bathroom a spa feel.
And, of course, the color should pair well with the rest of your bathroom. Consider your tile and wall colors and the overall theme. You don't want your cabinets to compete with the other design features in the room.
CABINET/ PANNEL DOOR + HARDWARE: THE FINISHING TOUCHES
The smaller elements are important — and that includes the cabinet doors and hardware. The smallest finishing touches can transform the appearance and ambience of your bathroom.
And during the door selection process, you'll see a variety of terminology, including shaker-style, flat-front or raised-panel doors. Select a design that Harmonizes with your other bathroom decor.
And what about the hardware! The knobs and pulls you use can add to the design or throw it off entirely. Whether you opt for sleek, modern handles or more traditional, ornate knobs, ensure they complement the overall vibe of your cabinets.
TOP TIPS TO CHOOSE BATHROOM CABINETS LIKE A PRO
- Don't Be Afraid to Mix Styles: Mixing different styles sometimes creates a look that's uniquely your own, as in the case of a modern-row of cabinets topped with vintage hardware.
- Consider Custom Cabinets: Custom cabinets are always an option if you have a specific vision for your bathroom and can't find anything on the shelf that meets your needs. And, this way you start to make sure how they will suit your space and style.
- Think Ahead: Don't just think about your bathroom today. Consider how your preferences might change and whether a place of your choice of cabinets will still function over the long haul.
- Do Not Rush: Bathroom cabinets are an important item in your home and one that should be made with intent, not haste. Consider your options and seek out a professional to assist in designs for your custom cabinets.
IN CONCLUSION
Selecting bathroom cabinets like an interior designer isn't a matter of making decisions based on a formula or checklist. It's about finding the right combination of style, function and materials that work in your space. All you need is the right cabinetry and you could completely change the decor and atmosphere of your bathroom, and the best part is that this space can be all aesthetics with your new cabinets.
I hope these tips have given you more confidence about selecting the right bathroom cabinets. This is your space — so enjoy the process and don't shy away from taking risks! You've got this.
P.S. If you enjoyed this article, see our additional tips for creating a lovely and functional bathroom design. If you have any questions for your next home project, let's talk.
- Choosing a Bathroom Vanity for Vessel Sink
- Charcoal Gray Bathroom Cabinets in Modern Design
- Perfect 36-Inch Bathroom Vanity Top
- L-shaped Bathroom Vanity Design Tips
- Wood Cabinets in Bathroom: Pros, Cons, and Care
FAQS
1. How to select moisture and water-resistant bathroom cabinets for a bathroom with high humidity?
Great question! With constant exposure to moisture, bathrooms can do a number on cabinets if they're not built with the right materials. As the moisture environment in the bath is on the high side, you would rather go in for moisture-resistant materials such as MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) with a good quality laminate/veneer finish for the bathroom cabinets. Stay away from solid wood — it can warp and swell in damp conditions. Also look for cabinets with a water-resistant finish, such as polyurethane, that protects wood from moisture damage. Don't forget to check the quality of the cabinet's edge and joint sealant!
2. Would it work to have a powder room and master bathroom in the same style of bathroom cabinets?
Oh, absolutely! But here's the rub — you must tweak how you approach the overall design. Although the style of your bathroom cabinets can be uniform in both spaces, the materials, finishes and proportions should echo the contrasting uses and sizes of the rooms. For a mudroom, choose small, compact cabinetry with an eye-catching, dramatic finish. In a master bathroom, however, you're likely to want larger, more functional cabinetry that offers ample storage for daily essentials. The secret is staying consistent with style but tweaking on the decorative elements as per the overall space.
3. What are some smart storage solutions in my bathroom cabinetry without looking tacky?
Now we're talking my language! In a bathroom, and especially in a small one, smart storage is a total game-changer. To have storage that is as stylish as it is practical, think about incorporating pull-out shelves, deep drawers and built-in dividers to corral everything from toiletries to towels. You can also include a pull-out trash bin or hidden compartments for an ultra-sleek appearance. The trick is to keep the cabinets streamlined and modern but incorporate hidden features to maximize space. Some designers even add a floating vanity, that not only gives the appearance of more space, but also hides more storage below. With careful design, you will end up with an attractive yet highly usable bathroom.
