The simple remedy to the issue of sharing bathroom space with another person, if you have a large enough bathroom for it, is the double sink vanity. You can choose a vanity in just about any style you can think of, each with their own defining characteristics and their own sets of pros and cons.

A modern double vanity will feature two sinks, clean lines and a minimalist design approach. You can choose drop in sinks, bottom mount sinks or more elegant vessel sinks. Each sink type also has its own advantages and disadvantages. If the modern look and angular design with sharp edges appeals to you and whoever you share the room with, this is definitely the way to go if you’re going for a complete remodel, or if your bathroom furniture already flows with a modern aesthetic.

If one of you likes the look of the modern minimalist style, but the other prefers curves to the sharp edges and angles of the style, a good compromise would be contemporary styled vanity furniture. This style shares the minimalist approach, and some of the sharp edges and angles but incorporates flowing, soft curves. Even if the rest of your furniture is more modern looking, you can probably find a contemporary double vanity that won’t clash with the rest of the room.

If you have more of a traditional look flowing through your house, then a traditional double vanity is perfect. This style features the two sinks as well as a more traditional look. The vanity itself is usually made of finished wood, and incorporates ornamental accents and more classic looking hardware. These designs are usually dark finished wood with ornamental brass accents and hardware. If you’re looking for a more classic, traditional look then you’ll definitely want to check out these vanities. photo credit: chaim zvi

As with any project though, first things first: Start by choosing what style vanity you want, then by choosing the actual vanity. Modern vanities are typically clean and minimalist in their styling. You’ll find them  in sharp, angular designs with clean edges and in color schemes like black with chrome accents.

Contemporary vanities keep with the clean lines of modern styles, but with one important difference. They don’t stick to angles. Contemporary vanities combine the simplified colors and clean edges with sweeping curves giving them a generally softer appearance.

Traditional bath vanities are much more ornate and are normally made of wood. All of the accents are typically ornately designed metals and are generally given an antiqued look. The vanity itself is normally made of ornately carved and stained wood and the fixtures are usually very decorative in nature. The countertops are usually either stone such as marble, or a simulated version of stones.

A double bath vanity can come in any of the styles listed above, but has the distinction of holding two separate sinks. A double vanity may also have a separator in the center consisting of cabinets and drawers for keeping various bathroom items and toiletries, as well as keeping his and hers bathroom items separate on the counter space.

Once chosen, installation can be simple or difficult, depending on the particular vanity you’ve chosen. The simplest installation will involve driving a few screws through the back of the vanity and into studs in the walls, and then connecting waste and supply pipes to the sink or sinks. More difficult assemblies could include assembly as well as sink and fixture installations.

Refer to the manual that comes with your vanity, as well as possibly how-to articles on the internet for tips from people who’ve already installed them. Make sure you’re capable of the installation before you take it on yourself – there’s no shame in enlisting the help of a professional if you need it, especially for things like plumbing if you have to run new pipes.

Once your project is done; you’ll have the confidence, experience and knowledge to start looking into other projects around the home. Now it’s time to sit back, relax and treat yourself to your beverage of choice and enjoy your new home improvement accomplishment. photo credit: billh18