Why vanities punch above their weight in a renovation

• Traffic and ergonomics: The vanity often sets the circulation width, mirror height, and task-light position.
• Storage and cleaning: Drawer-based storage reduces bending and clutter; wall-hung options create visible floor for an easier clean.
• Moisture control: Better set-out can keep timber joinery away from splash zones and improve airflow around plumbing voids.
• Design coherence: The benchtop and basin lines unify tile set-outs, tapware finishes, and mirror proportions.

Planning a full bathroom overhaul in Melbourne and want a coordinated process across design consultation, tiling, and finishing? Explore bathroom vanity installation Melbourne as part of an end-to-end renovation pathway.

Step 1: Measure, then decide on freestanding vs wall-hung

• Clearances: Aim for 800 mm minimum pathway where possible. In compact rooms, 700 mm can function if doors and drawers are considered.
• Heights that work: Typical benchtop height is 850–900 mm; vessel basins often suit lower tops (approx. 820–850 mm) to keep rim height comfortable.
• Freestanding: Easier to install on timber subfloors; more forgiving in renovations where wall plumb is imperfect.
• Wall-hung: Creates visual space and improves cleanability. Requires solid fixing points and services planning within the wall cavity.

Step 2: Plumbing orientation and Melbourne subfloor realities

Service positions affect cost and complexity. Melbourne homes span timber subfloors, slab-on-ground extensions, and apartment plumbing stacks. Each has constraints.

• Timber subfloors: Waste and water can be adjusted with fewer structural implications if access exists below. Check for termite barriers and ventilation.
• Concrete slabs: Moving wastes can trigger cutting and structural review. Keeping the vanity near existing services controls cost.
• Apartments: Stacks and acoustic rules limit relocation. Consult building management for approvals and allowable work windows.
• Tap position: Wall mixers free up benchtop space and simplify cleaning; hob-mounted taps ease maintenance and reduce wall penetrations.

Step 3: Materials that survive moisture and time

• Benchtops: Porcelain or sintered stone excels for stain, heat, and scratch resistance. Engineered stone is reliable; timber tops look great but need disciplined sealing and splash control.
• Cabinetry: Moisture-resistant substrate (MR) with quality edge sealing is key. Look for durable laminates or 2-pack finishes in splash-prone zones.
• Hardware: Soft-close, high-quality runners and hinges last longer and resist bathroom humidity.
• Basins: Porcelain and solid surface are easy to maintain; under-mount basins give a clean line but demand precise cut-outs and sealing.

Step 4: Waterproofing and tiling sequence

Vanity installation intersects with membranes, falls, and set-outs. Coordination avoids rework and leaks.

1. Substrate prep: Walls plumb and square; floor falls set to the drain before final tile set-out.
2. Waterproofing: Certified membranes applied with required upturns and cure times. Penetrations for plumbing sealed.
3. Tile set-out: Align grout lines to vanity centerline or basin position. Avoid slivers at edges and consider mirror and power-point positions.
4. Silicone and gaps: Use quality sanitary silicone at benchtop-to-wall junctions and around basin rims as specified.

Step 5: Ventilation and lighting that support a dry, functional vanity zone

• Extraction: Externally ducted fans reduce condensation that can degrade cabinetry.
• Task lighting: Vertical face-height lighting flanking the mirror reduces shadows. Target 3000–3500 K for flattering, functional light.
• Night lighting: Low-level guidance lighting prevents bright light shocks and helps families with different schedules.

Common Melbourne scenarios and quick recommendations

• Inner-terrace ensuite: Choose a 350–400 mm deep wall-hung vanity to widen the passage; consider a mirrored shaving cabinet for storage.
• Post-war family bathroom: A 900–1200 mm vanity with drawers and an under-mount basin balances prep space with storage for daily essentials.
• Slab-on-ground extension: Keep waste in place if possible to avoid slab cuts; invest savings in premium hardware and a durable benchtop.
• Shared kids bathroom: Durable laminates, integrated splash-back materials, and easy-clean basins reduce wear and tear.

Cost levers without compromising quality

• Keep services in zone: Retain water and waste locations where possible.
• Mix materials smartly: Pair a hero benchtop with robust, value cabinetry finishes.
• Standard sizes: Off-the-shelf widths often reduce lead times and fabrication costs.
• Focus on hardware: Spend on drawer runners and hinges; they define the daily experience.

Installation checklist

• Confirm wall studs or fixing substrate for wall-hung units.
• Dry-fit to check scribe lines, clearances, and door/drawer swings.
• Level and secure the carcass before benchtop placement.
• Seal all cut edges and penetrations against moisture.
• Pressure test plumbing connections; check for weeps under load.
• Apply sanitary silicone at junctions; allow cure per manufacturer.
• Protect finished surfaces during the remainder of works.

Maintenance rhythm for longevity

• Wipe spills promptly, especially around timber tops and seams.
• Use pH-neutral cleaners to protect finishes and silicone.
• Inspect silicone annually and refresh when dull, split, or mold-stained.
• Service hinges and drawers with periodic adjustments.

Mini-glossary of vanity options

• Wall-hung vanity: Hung off the wall to clear floor; needs solid fixings.
• Freestanding vanity: Sits on floor; easier to retrofit; conceals pipework well.
• Under-mount basin: Rim sits below benchtop; clean look; precise sealing required.
• Vessel basin: Sits on top; feature-led; check tap height and splash control.
• Integrated top: Single-piece benchtop and basin; minimal joints, easier cleaning.

FAQs