The Pros and Cons of Modular Bathroom Furniture Installation

While it’s difficult for renovators to imagine a modular kitchen, bathroom design has typically been dominated by the use of modular furniture, and for good reason. Often the forgotten room in the home, bathrooms typically have more size and spend limitations than any other space in a house- and modular bathroom installation often incurs fewer additional costs and requires less use of space than a fitted bathroom. Equally, modular units often seem less complicated and daunting than a completely fitted run, particularly to the DIY renovator.

While it may be simple for those in the know, the difference between a modular bathroom vanity and a fitted vanity might not be immediately clear.

A modular bathroom vanity is a complete, out-of-the box vanity option that is self contained. Often available in wall mounted or floor mounted styles, modular furniture is generally prebuilt and ready to be plumbed in immediately, with a few adjustments such as handles or basin options. Modular furniture generally sits independently from other fixtures in your bathroom, such as your toilet, though there are some exceptions.

Fitted furniture, on the other hand, is designed as a single, cohesive unit that is built and installed to fit a specific space in the bathroom. Fitted bathrooms are typically custom-made or built to order, ensuring a precise fit and a cohesive design, and can be recognised by their wall to wall style and use of plinths.

While modular bathroom furniture is available in a wide range of styles - from modern to transitional to classic, modular units can be boiled down to two specific types of vanity- wall mounted and floor mounted, or freestanding. Wall-mounted bathroom furniture refers to units that are mounted directly onto the wall, creating a floating effect, whereas freestanding bathroom furniture refers to standalone units that do not require any support from the walls.

Traditional Vanity UnitsWhat are the benefits of a modular bathroom vanity?

Pros:

1. Customization: One of the biggest advantages of modular bathroom furniture installation is the ability to customize your bathroom to fit your needs. With modular furniture, you can mix and match pieces to create a personalized and functional space. This means you can choose the pieces that work best for you, whether that’s a vanity with extra storage or a floor-to-ceiling cabinet for towels and linens.

2. Easy installation: Unlike traditional bathroom furniture, which can be difficult to install and require a lot of time and effort, modular bathroom furniture is designed to be quick and easy to install. Many modular pieces come with easy-to-follow instructions and can be installed by the homeowner, eliminating the need for a professional contractor.

3. Space-saving: Modular bathroom furniture is designed to be space-saving, which is perfect for smaller bathrooms or those looking to maximize their space. With modular pieces, you can choose pieces that fit perfectly into your bathroom without taking up unnecessary floor space.

4. Versatility: Modular bathroom furniture is incredibly versatile, meaning it can work in a variety of bathroom styles. Whether you have a modern, contemporary, or traditional bathroom, there are modular pieces that will work for you.

5. Cost-effective: Modular bathroom furniture is often less expensive than traditional bathroom furniture, making it a great option for those on a budget. Additionally, because modular furniture is designed to be easy to install, you can save money on installation costs as well.

What are the disadvantages of a modular vanity unit?

Cons:

1. Limited options: While modular bathroom furniture offers customization, the options available may be limited. This means you may not be able to find exactly what you’re looking for in terms of style, color, or size.

2. Lower quality: Because modular bathroom furniture is often less expensive than traditional furniture, the quality may be lower. This means the furniture may not last as long or withstand daily wear and tear as well as higher-quality options.

3. Assembly required: While modular bathroom furniture is designed to be easy to install, it still requires assembly. This can be time-consuming and may require tools and some DIY skills.

4. Limited storage: While modular furniture is designed to be space-saving, this can also mean that storage options may be limited. This can be a challenge for those with a lot of bathroom products or those who need extra storage for towels and linens.

5. Lack of uniqueness: Because modular bathroom furniture is designed to be versatile, it may lack the uniqueness and character that traditional furniture can bring to a space. This may not be a concern for everyone, but for those who value individuality in their home design, this could be a downside.