Changing a dresser to a bathroom vanity

Question

We are remodeling a 100 yo craftman bungalow.  I would like to use a dresser and make it a vanity for the bathroom.  Does anyone have directions or suggestions?

Margie*Lee · Answer

I have a friend who did this and her vanity is very unique and beautiful! However, I don't have any directions. I think you need a good carpenter to help you figure it out but it CAN be done. Good luck!

Chris aka monkey · Answer

http://www.hgtv.com/bathrooms/converting-an-old-dresser-into-a-bathroom-vanity/index.html this link should help xx

Elaine Simmons · Answer

I did this in the previous home that I lived in and got so many compliments on it. When you cut out the hole for the sink, you will have to remember that you will lose a drawer. I was lucky in that my sons are plumbers and general all around handymen. Here is a pic of the one we did. I tried to use a crackle kit but it didn't work so well but then since in the kit the first coat was gold and the second irvory, I just sanded here and there and stenciled in copper paint.

Mikell Paulson · Answer

Go to the DIY.com and ask your question!

Sharolyn T · Answer

Concerning the drawer...I watched a DIY show, where just what was needed for the plumbing was cut out, then re-framed to still have use of the drawer. I have a dresser that I plan to use for my bathroom, and I will be doing it this way! Look forward to seeing your finished vanity!

Elaine Simmons · Answer

My son did not disable the drawer completely but built a 'wall' in the drawer to hold small things. I think that is what Sharolyn means. Hard to explain until you see it.

Hewitt Remodeling Services LLC · Answer

Hi Connie... I'm originally from Auburn, 'right down the road'. The link that Chris provided is good information as well as the other comments from our Hometalkers. A couple of extra thoughts: make sure you consider the final height, one that it is comfortable. Keep in mind the new standard for vanity height is 35-36' finished, including the countertop (same as kitchens). This is up a couple of inches from the old standard. I've seen folks try to install a vessel style sink in a dresser that is already pretty tall, resulting in it being too high. The second point is in addition to generally having to lose the top drawer just for the sink itself, the next drawer down will probably need to be modified as well to make room for the plumbing. Tim

Connie · Answer

Thank you all very much for the comments and suggestions. Elaine I love what you did! I had thought of a vessel sink but thought perhaps the height as Tim states would be too high. Still trying to convince husband to do the work. I keep looking at vanities at the stores and cannot imagine spending several hundred dollars for a 'dresser sink' combo. I will show my husband the link. Sharilyn- I saw I believe the same show Rehab Addict. She just did this in her Dollar house. Carving out and reusing the drawer. It is up to my honey. My hands are not safe right now from my chemo meds otherwise I also use the tools alongside him. Maybe when we are ready I will be ok to give it a go. Again thank you!!

Gail Salminen · Answer

@Connie you could post a pic of the dresser and the bathroom for more specific comments. I did a search of this site for examples where you can find a lot of ideas. http://www.hometalk.com/search/posts?filter=dresser+to+vanity There have been many success stories, would love to see your in-between and after pics. Love these posts. .

Kathleen M · Answer

Always very excited to find a question that I KNOW the answer to- it's like a quizz in school LOL! I did this in my bathroom and you can see the results here http://www.hometalk.com/diy/bathroom/restored-beach-cottage-bathroom-1382678 I found the dresser first and made sure that my electrician installed the lights and outlets to accommodate it. I had my carpenter cut the sink hole for me and I made the rest of the adjustments with a jigsaw and a lot of patience. I installed the sink and faucet myself as well. Go for it!! It's the star attraction of my bathroom and I love the drawers for storage instead of rooting around in a dark cabinet. If you need photos of the way I cut the inside of the drawers, I'd be happy to help you out :o)

Building Moxie · Answer

very nice @Kathleen M - I too have done in several times. I have added the vessel to bring up a short piece (easier because of the smaller deck hole) and where I have removed, cutting and re-installed the top (+ adding feet). That said, I think Tim @@Hewitt Remodeling Services LLC nailed it. First thing I always say is what about the dimensions? Not only the height which of course is important, but does it fit the space and leave you the clearances you need - 15' either side of toilet, 30' min for landing etc. It's gotta be approached like you'd be laying out any other type of bath project. Still love it and fun. good luck.

Elaine Simmons · Answer

I had no problem with the height of mine and I am only 5'2'. Thanks for the compliment, Connie.

Beth Burke-Rudd · Answer

Instead of a chest we ended up using an antique lab type table, it has open storage underneath where we placed our trash can and the dogs water bowl. For the sink we used a model that is self rimming and stands up from the table top about 1.5 inches in an oval shape. Looks really nice, is large enough to hold all our sundries is tall enough to not have to bend over to brush teeth. To cut out the hole for the bowl my husband put some supports on the bottom side of the table top, worked like a charm.

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Changing a dresser to a bathroom vanity

Restored Beach Cottage Bathroom

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