His-and-hers sinks help morning traffic in master baths.
The vanity space should always be the focal point of any bathroom. Double sinks help to draw the eye to this area. Many modern bathroom designs incorporate two sinks, but consider carefully what your needs are before installing anything. You may decide that adding the large cabinet or long counter two-sink systems often require would be wrong for your bathroom's layout. A commodious single sink might be a more practical choice. However, keep in mind that double sinks are appealing to buyers if you think you might sell your home in the near future.
Go Over the Bath Space
Measure the bathroom floor space to assess and draw a detailed layout of your plans. Keep in mind that sore-bought vanity cabinets containing two sinks are at least 48 inches long. Consider installing two pedestal sinks side by side or using two bowl-type sinks on top of a counter with no cabinet underneath if you do not like the look of large cabinets or if one will not fit. Or retrofit an antique cabinet -- often smaller in scale than contemporary furniture -- to accommodate two drop-in sinks.
Use Logic for Cramped Space
Resign yourself to using only one sink if space is extremely limited. Organize the rest of the space such that two people can utilize the bathroom at the same time, though. One person can shower while another person gets dressed at the sink, for example, if toiletries, towels and robes are placed within arm's reach of each. Much of the decision of whether to install two sinks also relates to free floor space: a double-sink vanity might technically fit, but make sure the bathroom door or another closet door or fixture won't cramp the space in front of or next to it.
Install Double Sinks for Double Occupancy
Consider installing two sinks, although they may be used at different times, especially if you have children or teens that share a bathroom. That way, each person can keep a toothbrush, cosmetics and other toiletries near her own individual sink without having a sibling rearrange them. Build a few drawers or add doors to store or conceal these items under each sink if you can, to keep the aesthetic clean.
Save Space with Pedestal or Wall Sinks
To conserve floor space, install two pedestal sinks side by side. Paint the wall behind them burgundy or bright blue to help the porcelain pop and automatically become the room's focal point. Consider attaching two small bowl-type sinks directly to the wall for a really modern look. If you do, add tile above the sinks to help protect the wall from splashing water.
Arrange Storage for Bath Functionality
Make a bathroom function well by planning cabinetry and storage. If you choose one pedestal sink, for example, add storage furniture in the free floor space adjacent to it to hold towels or toiletries for several people. Store linen in a nearby closet instead of trying to store it all in a small bathroom. Remember that in a half-bath or bath in a public area of the home, a sink will be used primarily for hand washing only, so one sink would be plenty.
Tags: floor space, sinks help, bowl-type sinks, Consider installing, focal point