What is a floating vanity?

A floating vanity (also called a wall-mounted vanity) is a vanity cabinet that is mounted directly to the wall with no legs or base touching the floor, creating the appearance that it's "floating" in mid-air.

Why homeowners love them comes down to a few practical and visual benefits. The exposed floor space underneath makes the bathroom feel larger and more open — a big advantage in Ottawa's older homes where bathrooms tend to be on the smaller side. That open floor space is also much easier to clean, since there's no base cabinet trapping dust and moisture against the floor.

From a construction standpoint, floating vanities require solid wall backing to support the weight of the cabinet, countertop, and sink. In most cases, a contractor will need to install a wood blocking or metal support structure inside the wall during the renovation. This is why it's much easier to add a floating vanity during a full bathroom renovation rather than as a standalone swap from a floor-standing unit.

In the Ottawa market, a floating vanity with countertop and sink typically runs $800 to $3,000 installed, depending on the cabinet quality, countertop material, and whether wall reinforcement is needed. Higher-end options with custom cabinetry or stone countertops can push beyond that range.

For design, floating vanities pair beautifully with large-format floor tile since the uninterrupted floor plane really shows off the tile work. They're also a popular choice for accessibility renovations, as the open space underneath can accommodate a wheelchair or allow someone to sit while using the sink.

If you're considering one for your bathroom, we'd be happy to assess your wall structure and provide a free estimate — request a quote from Ottawa Bathrooms to get started.