Designing a beautiful bathroom isn’t just about selecting the right tiles or the perfect vanity. It’s also about the placement. Vanity positioning and mirror height play a crucial role in how the bathroom feels and functions. Yet, these are often overlooked or rushed decisions in many renovations.
If you’re redoing your bathroom or planning a new one, here’s what no one tells you — but should — about vanity placement and mirror height.
1. Vanity Height Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
The standard vanity height is 850-900mm in Australia, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. If you’re tall, constantly leaning over a short vanity can strain your back. For kids or shorter adults, a standard vanity might feel awkwardly high.
💡 Pro tip: For family bathrooms, go for a compromise height (around 870mm). In ensuites or personal bathrooms, customise the height to your daily users.
2. Floating Vanities Give You More Flexibility
Wall-mounted or floating vanities aren’t just modern and space-saving — they allow you to adjust the height more freely. You can mount them higher or lower based on your preference, and they offer easier floor cleaning and a more open feel in smaller bathrooms.
This flexibility is especially helpful in multi-generational homes where accessibility matters.
3. Mirror Height Depends on More Than Vanity Height
Most people simply hang the mirror just above the vanity — but here’s the secret: mirror height should reflect the eye level of the users, not just the vanity.
Ideally, the mirror’s centre should be at about 1500–1600mm from the floor, which works well for most adults. If you have multiple users, opt for a taller mirror or mirrored cabinet so everyone can see themselves comfortably.
4. Don’t Ignore Sink Type and Splash Zone
Vessel sinks — which sit on top of the vanity — raise the basin height by 100–150mm. That means the vanity itself needs to be lower (around 750–800mm) to keep everything ergonomic.
Additionally, placing the vanity too close to a wall or the toilet can make it difficult to clean and creates an uncomfortable squeeze. Always leave at least 300mm clearance on each side when possible.
5. Align Lights, Not Just Mirrors
Wall sconces or vertical lighting beside mirrors should be installed at roughly eye level (between 1500–1700mm from the floor) and spaced evenly on both sides of the mirror. This eliminates shadows on the face — ideal for grooming and makeup.
Don’t just guess the lighting position after the vanity is installed — plan it with the mirror and vanity together.
6. Mirror Width Should Match Vanity Width
To achieve visual balance, mirrors should either match the exact width of the vanity or be slightly narrower (by 50–100mm on each side). For double vanities, you can use two individual mirrors or one large mirror — just make sure it’s proportionate.
Oversized mirrors make small bathrooms feel bigger, while framed or arched mirrors add elegance to powder rooms and ensuites.
7. Consider Wall Studs and Plumbing Early
Before finalising your vanity and mirror position, check what’s behind the wall. Wall studs are critical for supporting heavy mirrors or wall-hung vanities. Similarly, plumbing locations might limit where you can place a vanity without costly changes.
Plan placements before you tile or install fixtures to avoid expensive rework.
Form, Function, and a Bit of Foresight
When done right, vanity and mirror placement can enhance both the look and feel of your bathroom. A few centimetres too high or low can make the space uncomfortable, while proper alignment and sizing create a polished, professional finish.
At Cargo Vanities, we not only offer beautifully crafted vanities but also guide you through the design process — including placement insights you won’t get elsewhere.