If you’re renovating or refreshing your bathroom, one upgrade with a huge return on style and functionality is a new bathroom vanity. More than just a sink cabinet, a vanity can anchor your entire bathroom design — offering storage, structure, and serious aesthetic appeal.
In Australia, bathroom renovations continue to grow in popularity. According to the 2023 Houzz & Home Australia report, homeowners spent a median of $21,000 on master bathroom upgrades, with vanities and cabinetry among the most common features to be updated.
To help you choose the right fit for your home, we’ve put together a list of stylish and practical vanity ideas. Whether you’re after something minimalist, coastal, or bold, these suggestions — featuring products from Buildmat — will get your creative juices flowing.
1. Floating Vanities for a Clean, Contemporary Look
Wall-hung or floating vanities are ideal for smaller bathrooms or anyone chasing that sleek, modern aesthetic. By freeing up floor space, they create the illusion of a larger room — a huge plus in tighter Melbourne or Sydney apartments.
Explore options like oak or matte white finishes to blend seamlessly with your tiling. Buildmat’s bathroom vanities include minimalist floating styles that pair well with wall-mounted tapware and under-cabinet lighting for added flair.
2. Double Sink Vanities for Family-Friendly Function
Sharing a bathroom in the morning rush can be chaos. That’s why double sink vanities are a game-changer for busy households. They give each person their own space — plus, they add a symmetrical, balanced look to your layout.
Look for solid construction materials like moisture-resistant plywood or oak. Buildmat offers vanities designed with Aussie households in mind, built to withstand the humid climate without compromising on style.
3. Natural Wood Finishes to Bring the Outdoors In
Australians have a strong affinity for nature-inspired interiors — and timber vanities are a perfect way to reflect that. Wood-grain textures bring warmth and character to an otherwise clinical space, especially when paired with natural stone or brushed brass fixtures.
Opt for sustainably sourced timber or engineered wood for better moisture resistance. Brands like ADP or Timberline (available through retailers like Buildmat) offer high-quality wood-look designs that are as durable as they are beautiful.
4. Compact Vanities for Small Spaces
If you’re working with a compact ensuite or powder room, you don’t have to sacrifice style. Compact vanities — often 600mm or smaller — can still pack a punch in both storage and visual appeal.
Choose slim-profile basins or integrated tops to save space. Buildmat’s range includes small-footprint options designed specifically for Australian homes, where smart design is essential in inner-city dwellings.
5. Vanities with Open Shelving for Easy Access
Open shelving is not only stylish but practical — allowing easy access to everyday items like towels and toiletries. It also encourages a tidier, more curated bathroom setup.
Consider a vanity that blends closed storage (for the less aesthetic items) with one or two open shelves. Styling those shelves with baskets, candles, or rolled towels adds a boutique hotel feel to your home.
For an even more modern touch, consider upgrading your vanity setup with a frameless LED bathroom mirror, combining sleek design with practical lighting that elevates both style and functionality.
6. Statement Vanities That Add a Pop of Personality
Why settle for basic white when you can express your personality through bold colours, textures, or shapes? Statement vanities — like those with fluted fronts, terrazzo tops, or navy blue tones — are trending in Australian design circles.
These bolder choices work best when balanced with neutral walls or subtle tiles. Buildmat’s collection includes on-trend designs that let your vanity become the hero feature of your bathroom.
7. Integrated Vanities with Smart Storage
One of the most overlooked aspects of bathroom design is practical storage. Drawers with built-in organisers, hidden compartments, and soft-close mechanisms make daily routines smoother.
In fact, according to the HIA Kitchens and Bathrooms Report, storage is a top priority for over 70% of renovators. Look for vanities with a mix of deep drawers and shallow ones — perfect for stashing everything from hair dryers to skincare.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your bathroom vanity isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about creating a space that works for your lifestyle. Whether you’re a solo minimalist or part of a bustling family, choosing the right vanity sets the tone for the entire bathroom.
If you’re ready to take the plunge, check out Buildmat’s bathroom vanities. Their thoughtfully curated range combines quality craftsmanship, modern design, and materials built for Aussie homes.
