Floating vs Freestanding Vanities – What Works Best in Your Bathroom?

Every bathroom renovation brings choices. Tiles, finishes, fixtures. But one of the most important decisions gets less attention than it deserves: the vanity.

Whether you’re updating a powder room or remodeling a primary ensuite, the vanity shapes how the space feels and functions. And the most common question we hear from homeowners is this: floating vs freestanding vanities, which one is better?

The answer depends on more than just style. Each type comes with practical pros and hidden trade-offs. Here’s how to weigh them.

Floating Vanities- Clean, Modern, and Full of Possibility

A floating vanity is mounted directly to the wall, leaving the floor space underneath open. This instantly creates a more spacious feel, even in small rooms.

For clients who prefer modern lines and minimalist design, floating vanities often become the go-to. They create visual lift and pair beautifully with under-cabinet lighting or continuous flooring, like large-format tile or heated stone.

They also make cleaning easier. No corners for dust to hide. No legs to mop around. And in homes where accessibility matters, the open space underneath can be more functional than decorative.

But floating vanities require proper installation. That includes solid wall blocking to support the weight of the cabinetry and plumbing. At Premiere Custom Millwork & Fireplaces Ltd., we always make sure the build and structure are aligned, because nothing undermines a beautiful vanity like poor support.

Freestanding Vanities- Traditional Feel with Built-In Strength

Freestanding vanities sit directly on the floor, often supported by a full base or decorative legs. This makes them feel substantial, and often more classic in style.

Many homes in the Mississauga area still opt for freestanding vanities, especially in family bathrooms or guest suites. They tend to offer more built-in storage options and can feel more approachable in design.

They also make plumbing access easier in certain situations, especially when the wall structure makes mounting complicated. And for those who prefer a more transitional or vintage aesthetic, freestanding options offer a wider visual range.

The trade-off? They can feel bulky in tighter spaces. And if the base isn’t well-sealed or elevated, water damage becomes a risk over time, especially in bathrooms with kids or poor drainage.

Storage, Style, and the Shape of Your Space

If your priority is storage, freestanding may give you more flexibility. But if your goal is to make the room feel more open, a floating vanity can transform the entire layout.

That’s why we always recommend thinking about your bathroom as a whole. Where’s the plumbing? How much clearance do you need? Do you want under-cabinet lighting or toe-kick drawers? Once those answers are clear, the right style often reveals itself.

At Premiere Custom Millwork & Fireplaces Ltd., we build both types, tailored to the size, shape, and purpose of your space. Whether you’re working with limited square footage or designing a full ensuite, we guide you toward a solution that doesn’t just look great, but lives well too.

Conclusion

Choosing between floating vs freestanding vanities isn’t just about what looks good in a catalog. It’s about how your bathroom needs to work, and what makes it feel like a natural part of your home.

Both styles have their place. Both offer long-term value. What matters most is finding the one that supports how you move, store, and live.

If you’re looking for a vanity that doesn’t just fit the space, but completes it, our team at Premiere Custom Millwork & Fireplaces Ltd. is ready to help you build it right. Just get in touch, and let’s start building.