Take some time to think about your morning routine. Do you find yourself fighting for a spot at the sink to brush your teeth? Maybe your issue comes up when you need to wash your face or hands.
No matter the reason for your bathroom struggle, a solution is not far off. It's likely that you could solve all your bathroom struggles with a double sink vanity!
Better Use of Space
If you have counter space to spare, installing a double sink will no doubt be a better use of space than your existing vanity. This is especially true if you share a bathroom with more than one person.
Unless you live alone, it's likely that you split your bathroom with at least one other person. And while sharing may be caring, having your own space in the morning is better for everyone.
You do not need to knock down a wall to create more space in this high-use area. If you are designing a new bathroom or renovating an old room, a double sink may be smart choice for your home.
Clashing Routines
Does this situation sound like something that happens in your home? You go to brush your teeth in the morning, only to find that there are three other people huddled around the sink. So, you grab your toothbrush and head to the kitchen sink to finish getting ready. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone.
The most common reason to choose a double sink vanity is because you need more space. This need for space generally comes from sharing a bathroom with another person.
According to architect Thayer Hopkins, "couples these days usually prefer the idea of two sinks for one simple reason. They lead busy lives and need access to the bathroom at the same time."
Personal Space is Key
Simplifying your morning routine is not the only reason to choose a double sink over a single sink. Another benefit of this option is the increase of personal space.
You won't have to worry about which tube of toothpaste is yours, since you'll have your own area around your sink! With a vanity, you'll also have more counter space. This can help if you use styling tools like hot irons or curling wands, which need to rest on a flat surface.
Larger bathroom vanities can help a family (or group of roommates) to keep their belongings separate. They are also perfect if each person in your household has a skin care or haircare routine that takes up lots of space.
Increase in Storage Space
Finally, with a double vanity likely comes double storage space. When you're planning your design, make sure you consider under-sink storage. You want to make sure your second sink won't take away from your existing storage.
Ideally, you want to increase the amount of storage you have. This extra space could come from an expanded vanity, or even shallower sinks. After all, you wouldn't want to clutter up your new vanity and end up regretting the decision altogether.
Adding room for storage under your sink can help you clear out a crowded shower stall, too. Move all your under-used shower supplies to a tub under your sink to make your shower even more relaxing.
Minimum Viable Space
A double sink vanity is not for everyone. Before you make a big renovation decision like this, you need to think about your existing space. Since two sinks take up more than one, you need to make sure this is a choice that makes sense for your home.
Experts like Thayer Hopkins recommend only installing two sinks if you have at least six feet of room available. If this space is not available, he recommends that you stick to one sink basin.
Hopkins specifies six feet because it will give two people an 11- to 12-inch buffer between them. That's enough room to keep them from banging elbows and crowding each others' space. And if that ends up happening, was there even a point to installing the double sink?
Room to Breathe
Keep in mind that having the space to install a second space does not mean it is the right choice for your home. Squeezing in an extra sink might end up making the room more crowded. If you have less space to move around, it could end up causing more stress than necessary.
Another downside to installing a double sink is the cost. Between the increased supplies, a larger vanity, and extra piping, the costs can add up quickly.
But it's always a good idea to think about the potential resale value of your home if you make this improvement. Weigh the costs against the benefits and future value of the upgrade before making a final decision.
If you are ready to take the plunge into a double sink (or want to upgrade your existing sink), we can help. Stop by your local Kitchen & Bath Classics showroom to chat with one of our knowledgeable consultants.
We carry trusted brands like American Standard, DXV, and Grohe, so you're sure to find the sink that works best in your home.
