Custom Bathroom Vanity Cabinets: What to Know Before You Build

2026 · Bathrooms

A bathroom vanity works hard every day. It has to handle water, steam and busy mornings, and still look good years later. Here is what we tell homeowners before we build custom bathroom vanity cabinets, using this double basin vanity from one of our projects as an example.

Measure for how you use the bathroom

A double basin vanity needs enough length for two people to stand side by side, usually 1.4 m or more. If space is tight, one basin with a wider top often works better than two cramped basins.

Mix drawers and doors

Doors on the sides hide bottles and cleaning products, while a stack of drawers in the middle keeps hair tools, makeup and toiletries organised. Drawers are much easier to use than deep shelves where things get lost at the back.

Choose finishes made for wet rooms

Bathroom cupboards need moisture resistant board and well sealed edges. A wood grain finish in a darker tone, like the one in this bathroom, gives the warmth of timber without the worry of real wood swelling. Matching tall cupboards beside the vanity give extra space for towels.

Pick a top that handles water

Quartz is our favourite for vanities: it is non porous, easy to wipe and does not stain from soap or toothpaste. Vessel basins sitting on the top, as shown here, make a strong statement and are easy to clean around. Read our granite vs quartz guide to compare.

Lift it off the floor

Adjustable legs or a recessed plinth keep the cabinet off a wet floor and make it easier to mop underneath.

Plan your vanity with us

We design and build custom cupboards for bathrooms, kitchens and bedrooms across the Lowveld. Book a free consultation and we will design your vanity in 3-D before anything is cut.