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Fix it Off the wall Style preferences, plumbing and available space are factors that influence whether you choose a freestanding or wallmounted vanity. “If you’re renovating and need to utilise and conceal existing plumbing, which goes through the floor, a freestanding model is generally the most convenient and cost-effective option and often maximises storage,” says Nicole. On the other hand, wall-hung vanities, which are plumbed through the wall, can help create the illusion of more space, which is ideal in compact bathrooms, says Annalisa Caronna, Forme national sales and marketing manager. “Being up off the ground, they’re also easier to clean around and aren’t affected by water on the floor, which can damage kickboards on freestanding styles,” she says. The extensive Forme range offers 5,000 possible combinations to help it work within a variety of styles and spaces and to suit your individual requirements. Style speak As a focal point of your bathroom, the vanity helps set the style tone, so choose one that reflects the look and feel you want to achieve. Minimalist Nordic and Scandi looks are highly coveted, which has led to an increase in the popularity of timber veneers. “Veneers are great for achieving a warm, natural feel,” says Nicole. “Best of all, they’re made to withstand the moisture of the bathroom environment.” If a classic look is more your style, white on white offers timeless appeal and lends itself to myriad styles and budgets. “Ceramic and polymarble tops and basins are a great cost-effective and easily maintained option,” says Nicole. For a pleasingly consistent palette and style throughout the home,
Bathroom vanities
Caroma ‘Luna’ above counter basin, $323, I/N: 0129647, and WELS 5-star 4.71L/min basin mixer, $174, I/N: 0066722
Cibo Design ‘Glee’ 1200mm wall-hung vanity with stone top in Chalk White and round thin edge basin in Black, $1,050, I/N: 0147558 (tapware sold separately)
PRO TIP To understand the space you have available, draw up a floor plan of your bathroom that includes all fixed features. Factor in enough space to open drawers and move around, and try to avoid narrow gaps between walls and the vanity to make cleaning easier consider continuing your kitchen colour scheme into the bathroom. Which basin? Choosing complementary basins and tapware often comes down to space
Words Kylie Jackes. Photography (top and opposite) Cibo Design, (top right) Caroma. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.
Look 3
and style requirements. “If you’re on a budget or have a small bathroom, a savvy cost-effective solution is to choose a vanity with an integrated ceramic basin such as the Cibo ‘Function’ at just 370mm deep,” says Nicole. Countertop and undermounted sinks both have pros and cons. A countertop or vessel basin creates a statement, generally has excellent water capacity and maximises storage in your vanity cabinet. But they can be a little tricky to clean around and require a standard bench depth of at least 460mm. “For a sleek, streamlined look, an undermounted basin is ideal and allows extra bench space, but you will lose out on drawers or cupboard space to accommodate it,” says Annalisa. Space can also be the deciding factor when it comes to taps. Wall-mounted tapware will save bench space, but needs to be plumbed through the wall. Benchmounted tapware is typically easier to install, yet takes up valuable room and can be harder to clean around. ¿
Look 4
+ Cibo ‘Function’ 900mm slimline floor vanity, $454, I/N: 4843936. Mondella ‘Resonance’ WELS 3-star 9L/min basin set in Chrome, $105, I/N: 5002793.
+ Cibo Design ‘Windsor’ 900mm ceramic top vanity unit in White (tapware sold separately), $748, I/N: 0018448. Mondella ‘Resonance’ WELS 5 star 6L/min pin lever basin mixer in Black, $99, I/N: 5004137. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunningswarehouse |
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