Modern Bathroom Vanity Unit Types, Designs & Colour Trends

Every UK homeowner wants their home to feel comfortable, stylish, and easy to live in. The bathroom plays a big part in that. It’s where practicality meets comfort, and where design choices can make even a small space feel well thought out. Among all the bathroom furniture and accessories, the vanity unit often becomes the feature that brings everything together.

A bathroom vanity unit is more than just a basin and cupboard. It’s the centrepiece that sets the tone for your bathroom style while keeping daily essentials neatly stored. The right vanity unit saves space, improves organisation, and adds a polished, cohesive look to the entire room.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular bathroom vanity unit types, share modern design ideas, and highlight the latest colour trends transforming UK bathrooms in 2025 and beyond.

Types of Bathroom Vanity Units

Choosing the right vanity type sets the tone for how your bathroom looks and functions. It determines how much storage you’ll have, how much space you can save, and even how easy cleaning becomes. When upgrading your bathroom, it’s worth buying from a trusted supplier of tiles and bathroom accessories known for both style and durability. Each type offers something different depending on your needs and layout.

Below are the main types of vanity units you’ll find in UK homes today.

Floor-Standing Vanity Units

Floor-standing vanities are the go-to for anyone needing extra storage. They rest directly on the floor, offering deep drawers or cupboards perfect for keeping towels, cleaning products, and toiletries hidden away. They’re available in various widths, making them suitable for both compact and large bathrooms.

Pros:

• Generous storage, 

• Easy to install

• Fits traditional and modern looks.

Cons: 

• Harder to clean underneath

• Take up more visual space.

If your bathroom feels cluttered, a well-chosen floor-standing vanity helps bring everything together neatly.

Wall-Hung or Floating Vanity Units

Wall-hung vanities give bathrooms a light, spacious feel. By lifting the unit off the floor, you create the illusion of a larger room while keeping a clean, modern aesthetic.

They’re especially popular in apartments and small spaces where every inch matters.

Pros:

• Space-saving design

• Easy to clean underneath

• Sleek, modern aesthetic

Cons:

• Requires a strong, load-bearing wall for installation

• May provide slightly less storage space than floor-mounted options

Corner Vanity Units

Corner vanities are perfect for cloakrooms or tight bathrooms. Designed to tuck neatly into a corner, they make use of awkward layouts while keeping the room feeling open.

While storage is limited, the efficiency they bring can’t be ignored. These are ideal for second bathrooms or guest suites where less storage is needed.

They come in a variety of styles, from classic curved fronts to angular modern shapes that fit compact spaces beautifully.

Double Sink Vanity Units

Double sink vanities suit shared bathrooms, ensuites, or family spaces where more than one person gets ready at the same time. They add convenience while making the bathroom feel more balanced and luxurious.

When choosing one, think about available space, plumbing layout, and how much countertop area you need. They require more installation planning, but for busy households, they’re worth every bit of it. The extra space turns morning routines from a queue into a calm experience.

Modern Bathroom Vanity Designs

Vanity design has evolved far beyond simple cupboards. Today’s designs blend aesthetics with practicality, focusing on smart storage, minimalist lines, and user-friendly features. Whether you’re renovating or upgrading, choosing the right bathroom furniture creates a cohesive look that enhances comfort, maximises space, and adds lasting style to your home.

Here are the top modern vanity styles that are redefining how UK bathrooms look and function.

Minimal, Handle-Less and Soft-Close Designs

Modern bathrooms often favour a clean, clutter-free look. Handle-less vanities with push-to-open drawers or doors create a smooth, streamlined appearance.

Soft-close drawers add a touch of quiet quality, preventing slamming and extending the life of your vanity.

People prefer these because they’re functional without being fussy. It’s design simplicity that works effortlessly every day.

Open Shelf and Hybrid Storage Designs

Hybrid storage vanities combine closed drawers with open shelving. The open shelves are great for rolled towels, baskets, or a few decorative pieces.

It’s a balance between practicality and personal style. You get easy access to daily essentials while displaying elements that make the space feel homely.

For family bathrooms, this design keeps essentials close at hand while maintaining a relaxed, lived-in look.

Integrated LED Mirrors and Smart Features

Technology is changing the way we use bathroom spaces. Many modern vanities now include LED mirrors with built-in demisters, ambient lighting, and even charging ports for shavers or toothbrushes. These features combine convenience with style, turning ordinary routines into small daily luxuries.

Fluted, Ribbed and Textured Fronts

Texture is playing a major role in bathroom design. Fluted or ribbed vanity fronts bring visual depth without overcomplicating the look. These details catch the light beautifully, adding subtle movement to plain surfaces. Whether painted in soft neutrals or natural wood tones, they create a rich, tactile finish that feels refined and modern. This design trend is becoming a favourite in boutique-style bathrooms across the UK.

Bathroom Vanity Colour Trends

Colour can completely change how a bathroom feels. The latest trends show a move toward natural warmth, earthy tones, and elegant contrast. Whether you prefer bright and airy or bold and dramatic, there’s a palette that suits every home and taste. Below are the standout colour directions shaping UK bathroom design for 2025 and beyond.

Light Neutrals (White, Cream, Pale Grey)

Light neutrals make small bathrooms look more open and airy. They reflect natural light and create a calm, timeless atmosphere that suits most interior styles.

They’re also the safest choice for resale, as these shades appeal to a wide range of tastes. For a bit of depth, pairing white vanities with stone-effect splashbacks or brushed nickel fixtures keeps things fresh and modern.

Warm Wood Finishes (Oak, Walnut, Ash)

Natural wood tones are back in a big way. Finishes like oak and ash bring warmth and texture to tiled spaces. They fit beautifully within the Japandi or Scandi trend, blending simplicity with organic comfort. A vanity in warm walnut tones can make even a minimal bathroom feel more inviting. Pair it with matte black or brushed brass taps for a balanced, modern edge.

Dark Shades (Black, Charcoal, Navy)

Dark vanities give bathrooms a bold, sophisticated character. They create striking contrast when paired with lighter walls and tiles. Black or charcoal finishes feel premium and work especially well with brass, copper, or matte black fixtures. For smaller spaces, consider a floating dark vanity to keep the look balanced without overpowering the room.

Soft Earth Tones (Sage Green, Dusty Blue, Taupe)

Soft, earthy shades bring a relaxed, spa-style feel to modern bathrooms. Colours like sage green or dusty blue look calm yet refreshing. They pair well with brushed gold or black fittings and complement natural textures such as stone or rattan.

Closing Thought

A bathroom vanity does more than hold a basin. It defines the room’s look and makes daily routines easier. The right unit brings together style, storage, and comfort in one simple design.

For UK homeowners, choosing a vanity that fits both space and lifestyle can make all the difference. Whether it’s a wall-hung style for a modern flat or a warm wood finish for a family home, the best choices balance function with visual appeal.

Incorporating high-quality outdoor and indoor tiles into your home adds durability and texture, while well-chosen bathroom furniture and accessories complete the look turning a practical space into a comfortable, polished room that feels good to use every day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of vanity unit is best for small bathrooms?

The best vanity for small bathrooms is a wall-hung or corner vanity. These designs save valuable floor space, make cleaning easier, and create an open visual effect. Wall-hung models are ideal when you want style and practicality in one simple piece. Corner vanities are another strong choice for cloakrooms or compact layouts, making every inch count without feeling cramped.

Is a floating vanity better than a floor-standing unit?

Floating vanities are better for smaller or modern bathrooms, while floor-standing units are ideal when you need more storage. The right choice depends on space and usage. Floating designs open up the room visually, while floor-standing vanities offer deeper drawers and easier installation.

What should I look for in a high-quality vanity?

A high-quality vanity should have solid construction, moisture-resistant materials, soft-close fittings, and a durable finish. These ensure long-lasting performance and daily comfort. Also, check the hinges, drawer runners, and countertop finish. A well-built vanity won’t warp or peel even in humid environments.

How to tell if a bathroom vanity is durable?

Durability depends on the materials and craftsmanship. Look for moisture-resistant MDF, plywood, or solid wood, plus sealed edges and quality fittings.

Cheaper vanities may look similar but often use low-density boards that swell over time. Investing in proper materials pays off in reliability and lifespan.

What vanity colour makes a bathroom look bigger?

Light colours such as white, cream, or pale grey make bathrooms look bigger by reflecting more light. They help open up the space and create a calm atmosphere. Pairing light vanities with glossy tiles or large mirrors enhances the effect even further.

What material is best for a bathroom vanity?

Moisture-resistant MDF, plywood, and solid wood are among the best materials for bathroom vanities. Each offers a balance of durability, style, and maintenance ease. Plywood is sturdy and resists swelling, MDF is budget-friendly with smooth finishes, and solid wood brings natural warmth to the space.

What vanity design style is most popular?

Minimal, handle-less designs with soft-close drawers are currently the most popular choice in UK bathrooms. People appreciate their neat lines, practical function, and easy maintenance. Combined with neutral tones or textured finishes, they blend perfectly into both modern and traditional homes.