Double Sink Bathroom Vanities — 5 Ideas: Smart double sink vanity ideas for small and medium bathrooms, from floating units to split layouts

I once had a client insist on "matching sinks for equality" in a 5-foot bathroom — I nearly drew the same face a cartoonist would. I solved it by sketching a quick floor plan with a quick floor plan and realized two sinks were totally possible if we rethought depth and storage. That little rescue turned into one of my favorite space-saving double-sink solutions.

1. Narrow-depth double vanity

I love recommending narrow-depth vanities when clients insist on two sinks but the bathroom is skinny. Choosing a 15–18" deep cabinet instead of a standard 21–24" lets you fit two shallow basins without crowding the room. The trade-off is reduced countertop and drawer depth, so I usually pair this with wall-mounted medicine cabinets or recessed niches to regain storage.

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2. Floating double vanity with open lower shelves

Floating vanities make the floor visible and the room feel larger — a huge win in cramped bathrooms. I often do a floating double vanity with open lower shelves for towels; it looks modern and gives easy access, though dusting under the vanity becomes a new chore. Budget tip: laminate floating units can mimic wood for much less than custom joinery.

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3. Split double vanities (two separate bases)

When privacy and personalization matter, two separate vanities with a shared mirror or a central tower between them can be a game-changer. Each person gets their own storage footprint and drawer layout; the downside is you need a bit more wall length. If you want to test different arrangements before building, try to visualize in 3D so you don't commit to a layout that feels tight in reality.

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4. L-shaped or corner dual sink layout

Corner or L-shaped vanities let you use awkward corners that are otherwise wasted, and they can fit two compact sinks in a cozy footprint. I used this once in a townhouse where plumbing was already on one wall; we turned the perpendicular wall into a second basin and created an elegant shared lighting scheme. Challenges include custom counter cuts and plumbing runs, so expect slightly higher labor costs.

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5. Integrated storage + layered lighting for two users

Two sinks are great, but fights often start over clutter and lighting. My favorite long-term solution is to plan dedicated storage zones (one person’s daily kit on the left, the other’s on the right) and add layered lighting — backlit mirrors plus directional sconces. It’s more expensive up front, but it eliminates the morning scramble; if you need help planning cabinet modules, think about how to customize storage layouts to fit your routines.

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FAQ

Q1: What is the minimum width for a double sink vanity?

A: You can get a very compact double vanity down to about 60 inches, but 66–72 inches is more comfortable for elbow room and storage. Consider sink size, spacing between faucets, and how much counter you want between basins.

Q2: Are narrow sinks practical for daily use?

A: Narrow sinks work fine for handwashing and light tasks; they look sleek and save space. If you regularly wash hair or large items, choose a slightly deeper bowl or one basin with a shallow second basin.

Q3: How much clearance should I leave in front of a double vanity?

A: As a rule of thumb, leave at least 30 inches of clear floor space in front of a vanity for comfortable use; more is preferable where doors or traffic intersect. According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), 30 inches is a common minimum recommendation for clear floor space in front of fixtures (see: https://nkba.org/).

Q4: Is plumbing more expensive with two sinks?

A: If plumbing is already nearby, the incremental cost is moderate: extra supply lines and a second drain. Costs rise if you need to reroute pipes or open walls, so factor in plumbing access when budgeting.

Q5: Can I use a single countertop with two undermount sinks?

A: Absolutely — a single continuous countertop with undermount sinks gives a seamless look and simplifies cleaning. Keep in mind that larger continuous tops may require seams or more expensive materials to prevent sagging.

Q6: What materials work best for small double sink vanities?

A: Engineered quartz, compact laminates, and solid-surface materials deliver low maintenance and slim profiles ideal for small spaces. Natural stone looks beautiful but can be heavier and costlier, so balance aesthetics with budget and support structure.

Q7: How do I prevent morning traffic jams at two sinks?

A: Designate drawer zones, add hooks or open cubbies for everyday items, and use staggered mirror lighting so both users can groom without casting shadows on each other. A small shared charging drawer or basket prevents countertop clutter.

Q8: Should I hire a designer for a double-sink remodel?

A: If your space has tricky plumbing, unusual dimensions, or you want to maximize resale value, hiring a pro saves time and costly mistakes. A designer can also help you visualize layouts and finishes so the final result fits both style and function.

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