Bathroom Counter Ideas

Homeowners planning kitchen remodels often have strong ideas about countertop materials. But when it comes to bathroom counter planning, careful planning and strategy go out the window.

If It's Good Enough for the Kitchen...?

Experienced kitchen designers dealing with a remodel project take into consideration a number of factors, such as cost, durability, clean-ability, and attractiveness.

Yet many of these factors do not apply to bathroom counters--or apply only to a limited degree. Homeowners who simply duplicate kitchen counter materials in the bathroom need to think of the bathroom as a separate area with separate functions.

These factors broken down:

• Cost: Because bathroom counters cover far less space, cost is typically less of an issue. That $120/sq. foot slab granite you have your heart set on is far more affordable when it will cover only 8 square feet.
• Durability: Durability, too, is far less of a factor in the bathroom. Bathroom counters do not experience bangs, chips, and scratches from pans, plates, and utensils.
• Clean-ability: Of course, both kitchen and bathroom counters need to be cleaned. But bathroom counters rarely need to be cleaned as extensively as do kitchen counters.
• Attractiveness: Even the bathroom counter's looks may be less of a factor than the kitchen counter. Since kitchens are such social meeting points, the counters are scrutinized much more than are bathroom counters.

5 Bathroom Counter Ideas

1. Zero Bathroom Counters: That's right. Consider whether you really need copious bathroom counter space. Pedestal sinks typically offer enough room beside the basin to rest a toothbrush, contact lens case, and a couple of other essentials.
2. Modular Granite: Think of modular granite as oversized tile. While only 12" wide, depth-wise it does extend from counter edge to wall, so it has far fewer seams than tile.
3. Ceramic or Porcelain Tile: By far your cheapest bathroom counter option, tile isn't a popular kitchen choice since homeowners shy away from counters with seams. But this reality has less bearing in the bathroom, where seams have little impact on functionality. Also, tile is by far your cheapest bathroom counter option. And tile installation is DIY-friendly.
4. Vanity With Built-In Counter Space: The Perfecta vanity (see image) is a prime example of counter-that-isn't-a-counter. It's essentially a 48" bathroom vanity with a couple of bonus "wings" (Caesarstone) on both sides.
5. Laminate: Serious? Yes, we're serious. Formica's 180fx™ series reproduces high-definition images of stone, with no repetitive effect for up to five feet. Laminate isn't especially durable (scratching is a big problem), but how much vegetable-cutting do you plan to do in your bathroom?