Quick answer: Measure the space and the existing plumbing first, then choose between a floating vanity (easier to clean around, lighter look) and a freestanding one (more storage, simpler install). Allow at least 21 inches of clear floor in front, confirm whether the sink and faucet are included, and seal and wipe a wood vanity regularly — good ventilation matters more than anything else.
Start with the plumbing
Before you look at styles, open the cabinet you have and note where the drain and water lines come out of the wall or floor. A floating vanity needs wall plumbing and solid blocking behind the wall to carry its weight; a freestanding vanity can sit over floor plumbing.
Measure the width between walls or fixtures, the depth you can spare, and the height of any window above. Standard vanity height today is about 32–36 inches; many older Cape houses were built lower, so check what feels comfortable.
Floating vanities
A floating solid wood vanity leaves the floor open, so small bathrooms look larger and sand is easy to sweep out from underneath. It suits guest baths and powder rooms where storage needs are modest.
Ask a plumber or carpenter to confirm the wall can take the load, including a stone or ceramic top and a full basin. Use the mounting hardware recommended for your wall type.
Freestanding vanities
A freestanding bathroom vanity with drawers offers more storage for towels, sunscreen and beach-day clutter. Drawers are easier to use than deep doors in a family bathroom.
Leave a small gap between the cabinet and the wall so air can circulate, and set the vanity on small pads if the floor is tile that gets wet often.
Sinks, faucets and tops
Every listing states whether a basin is included. Some pieces, like a carved solid wood vessel sink, are the sink; others expect you to choose your own basin and faucet. Vessel sinks need a lower vanity or a taller faucet; under-mount sinks need a cut-out sized exactly to the basin.
Pair the vanity with a simple wooden bathroom shelf for towels so the countertop stays clear.
Keeping wood happy in a wet room
Wood and water get along when water does not sit. Wipe splashes after use, run the exhaust fan for 20 minutes after showers and keep the door open when nobody is using the room. Re-seal the top once or twice a year with the finish recommended for it.
In a summer house that is closed for weeks, leave cabinet doors ajar and the fan on a timer so moisture does not build up while you are away.
Lighting, mirrors and finishing touches
A vanity looks best with light from the sides or from above the mirror rather than one bulb behind you. Choose a mirror a few inches narrower than the vanity, hang it so its center is roughly at eye level, and pick fittings rated for damp locations. Brass and black hardware both suit warm wood; brushed nickel feels crisp next to white shiplap.
Keep the countertop calm: a soap dish, a small tray for daily items and one plant or a jar of beach stones is plenty. Baskets in the drawers or on a shelf below hold sunscreen, spare toothbrushes for guests and the inevitable collection of hair ties and bandages that every beach house gathers by August.
Frequently asked questions
Do your vanities include a sink and faucet?
Only when the listing says so. Fixtures in photos may be for styling; each listing states what is included.
Is a wood vanity OK in a shower room?
Yes, with a good exhaust fan, quick wipe-downs and a resealed top once or twice a year.
Who installs it?
We ship the vanity; installation and plumbing should be done by a licensed local plumber.
What size vanity fits a small cottage bathroom?
Many cottage bathrooms take a 24–36 inch vanity; measure wall to wall, allow clearance for the door swing and keep at least 21 inches of open floor in front.
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