The Evolution of Bathroom Vanities Unit 2, Price Street Business Park, Off Park St., Birkenhead CH41 3PE 0151 647 4392
The first bathroom vanities had very little resemblance to what is now widely available today. The first units functioned as washstands and looked like small wooden tables. These were typically placed in one corner of the bedroom, equipped with a pitcher and a small bowl for washing the face and hands.
Modern Bathrooms in the Victorian Era
The Victorian era marked the start of modern bathroom. It was during this time that it became a separate or private room and started to look like the modern bathroom. This era also paved the way for indoor plumbing, with bathroom vanities evolving into wallmounted sinks.
Indoor Plumbing and Functional Vanities
Indoor plumbing continued to improve and console units developed into functional bathroom vanities. The styles depended heavily on the design of bathroom furniture pieces such as cabinets, dressing tables, and chests. They also had intricate woodwork and hand-finished detailing similar to other furniture pieces in the house.
Into the Edwardian Period
The development of bathroom vanities continued into the Edwardian period. Baths during this time had exotic wood furnishings and more intricate and elaborate styles. Bathroom vanities then began to reflect this design through leggy console vanities and neoclassical pedestal sinks.
Improvement in Design and Details
Vanity styles were simplified over the last few years. Some transitional vanities had modest furniture styles instead of elaborate carvings and details. This led to the creation of new bathroom vanities that depicted sophistication, making them perfect for a more comfortable and modern setting. Contemporary Designs
Many bathroom contemporary vanities lessen design further, shifting to pieces with smooth and simple lines. Minimalist design became popular and easily gained admiration because of its simplicity. The aim of this design is to have a vanity that is more intuitive to use, while fostering beauty in its simplicity. Today, bathroom vanities come in different styles and finishes. Vanity units also come with a wider choice of basins, ranging from ceramic and glass to natural stone, and in a variety of colours. Theme designs are also available, which includes classic vanities with hand carvings, minimalistic vanities with simple styles, and antique ones that look like vintage vanity cabinets. Compact vanity units are also available to fit a cloakroom or small bathroom, or an en suite.
Resources: http://www.bathroomsandmorestore.co.uk/ http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-decor/bathroom/decorating-bathroom3.htm http://www.hgtv.com/remodel/bathroom-remodel/vintage-bathroom-vanities