An antique bathroom vanity is my favorite way to make a bathroom feel collected, cozy, and a little bit storybook.
Add a Marble-Look Slab on Top
When I’m worried about water, I top an antique bathroom vanity with a stone-style countertop so the vintage wood stays protected. I’ve done this on ornate pieces, and that clean, bright top makes the carved base look even richer.
Possibly helpful picks:
- Carrara White Marble Vanity Top with Sink: Instantly upgrade your vintage cabinet with a pre-sealed stone top that includes an integrated sink bowl.
- Antique Brass Widespread Faucet: Complete your vanity transformation by installing a vintage-inspired brass faucet that complements carved wooden details.
- Decorative Marble Tray: Accessorize your new countertop with a small stone tray to hold soaps and protect the surface.
Turn a Vintage Dresser Into a Vanity
I’ve converted a repurposed dresser into an antique bathroom vanity by cutting a clean sink opening up top and a neat U-shape in the back for the drain. Keeping the drawers (with a little trimming) gave me that “real furniture” look plus storage I actually use.
Consider these options:
- White Vessel Sink: Upgrade your vintage dresser instantly by installing this elegant white vessel sink for a clean, modern contrast.
- Antique Brass Faucet: Enhance the rustic charm of your DIY vanity with this vintage-style brass mixer tap for timeless appeal.
- Jigsaw Power Tool: Make precise cuts for your sink and plumbing in the dresser top easily with this versatile power tool.
Use an Antique Washstand With an Open Base
An antique washstand makes a dreamy antique bathroom vanity when you want lighter visuals and room for baskets underneath. I’ve done this with a small sink and loved how the turned legs and open shelf made the whole bathroom feel airy.
Check these products out:
- Woven Storage Baskets: Organize your open shelving with these textured baskets that add rustic warmth while hiding bathroom clutter neatly.
- Brass Vessel Faucet: Complement your antique wood vanity with a vintage-inspired brass faucet to enhance the classic, timeless aesthetic.
- Amber Glass Pump Bottles: Swap plastic for these elegant amber glass dispensers to elevate your sink area and maintain a cohesive look.
Convert a Sideboard for a Wide Vanity
A vintage sideboard vanity is my go-to when someone wants a big statement piece with tons of drawers. I’ve retrofitted one as an antique bathroom vanity by removing the center back panel for plumbing and keeping the outside doors looking untouched.
Give these a look:
- Oval Vessel Sink: Add a classic touch to your converted sideboard with a surface-mounted bowl that simplifies specific installation needs.
- Tall Antique Brass Vessel Faucet: Choose a high-arc faucet designed to clear the rim of your new sink while enhancing vintage aesthetics.
- Marble Vanity Top Slab: Protect your wood furniture and create a water-resistant surface by installing a custom-sized stone countertop layer.
Build a Double Vanity From a Buffet
For shared bathrooms, I’ve turned a long buffet into an antique bathroom vanity that easily fits two sinks without feeling like a bulky cabinet. The trick I learned is spacing the sinks so you still get usable counter space in the middle for daily clutter.
Products that could assist:
- Oval Vessel Sinks: Transform your buffet into a vanity by adding these elegant vessel sinks for a modern farmhouse look.
- Antique Brass Tall Faucet: Elevate your repurposed vanity with these tall vintage-style faucets designed specifically for above-counter vessel sink installation.
- Half Moon Wood Mirror: Complete your bathroom renovation with a statement wooden framed mirror that perfectly mimics this stylish arch design.
Go With a Simple Vessel Sink Setup
A vessel sink is my easiest win for an antique bathroom vanity, because you don’t need to butcher the whole top—just drill for the drain. I’ve used this on delicate old furniture where I wanted to preserve as much original wood as possible.
A few helpful options:
- Oval or Round White Vessel Sink: Choose a classic white porcelain basin to create a clean, elegant contrast against rustic wood vanity surfaces.
- Satin Nickel or Brushed Bronze Faucet: Select a tall vessel faucet in an antique finish to ensure proper clearance and match vintage aesthetics.
- Pop-Up Drain With Mounting Ring: Install a matching drain assembly with a mounting ring to ensure your sink sits securely and drains properly.
Keep the Original Hardware and Keyholes
The soul of an antique bathroom vanity is the details, so I always try to keep the original hardware and even the little keyholes. On my last build, I sealed the wood and reused the old pulls, and it instantly looked like it belonged there.
These products might be useful:
- Brass Polish & Cleaner: Restore the shine to your original handles by gently removing tarnish without damaging the delicate antique patina.
- Clear Wood Sealer (Matte/Satin): Protect your vintage timber from bathroom moisture while preserving the natural, aged look of the original grain.
- Antique Brass Pendant Pulls: If original hardware is missing, find distinct drop-style replacements that match the period-correct aesthetic of your vanity.
Embrace Dark Wood and Warm Metal Tones
A deep dark wood finish on an antique bathroom vanity feels dramatic in the best way, especially with warm-toned fixtures. I’ve refinished pieces like this and the grain pops so hard under bathroom lighting it practically does the decorating for you.
Check if these fit your needs:
- Dark Wood Bathroom Vanity with Drawers: Anchor your bathroom design with a rich walnut or espresso vanity cabinet that provides dramatic contrast.
- Antique Brass Widespread Bathroom Faucet: Add warmth to your vanity setup by installing a vintage-inspired faucet with a warm metal finish.
- Woven Seagrass Storage Basket: Introduce natural texture beside your vanity with a woven basket, perfect for softening dark wood tones.
Try a Soft Painted Farmhouse Finish
If you love cozy vibes, paint an antique bathroom vanity in a soft neutral and let the dings and edges show through a little. I’ve done this with a gentle distressed look, and it plays so nicely with simple tile and vintage-style mirrors.
Might be a good match:
- Chalk Style Furniture Paint: Transform your vanity with a matte, velvety finish that requires minimal prep work and distresses beautifully.
- Clear Furniture Wax: Protect your newly painted finish while enhancing the antique look and adding a subtle, durable sheen.
- Sanding Sponge Block: Easily distress edges and corners to reveal the wood underneath for that authentic, aged farmhouse charm.
Whitewash Oak for an Airy Antique Look
A light whitewashed wood finish can make an antique bathroom vanity feel fresh without losing its age. I tested this on an old oak piece and was obsessed with how it kept the grain visible while brightening up a small bathroom.
A few things you might like:
- Whitewash Wood Stain or Wax: Create that airy, weathered finish on your existing vanity by applying a high-quality whitewash stain.
- Antique Brass Faucet Set: Complete your transformation with elegant, vintage-style brass fixtures that perfectly complement light wood tones.
- Topiary Plant in Pot: Add a touch of fresh greenery to your new vanity setup to enhance the natural vibe.
Use a Console Table With Basket Storage
A vintage console table vanity is perfect when you want quick access to towels and pretty storage. I’ve built this style as an antique bathroom vanity and added a lower shelf so baskets hide the everyday stuff while the table still looks delicate.
Possibly handy products:
- Woven Seagrass Storage Baskets: Organize your open shelving with these natural baskets, perfect for hiding toiletries or holding fresh towels neatly.
- Round Vessel Sink: Recreate this custom vanity look by adding a simple, elegant vessel sink to your favorite console table.
- Vintage Brass Faucet: Complete your antique-inspired vanity with a timeless brass faucet that adds charm and character to the space.
Make a Narrow Depth Vanity for Tight Baths
Some antique pieces are naturally shallow, and that’s gold for a small antique bathroom vanity setup. I’ve used a slim hall table before, and it kept the walkway comfy while still giving me that vintage wood charm.
A few choices to try:
- Rectangle White Vessel Sink: Choose a slim vessel sink to sit atop your narrow vanity, saving precious internal drawer space.
- Rustic Wood Console Table: Find a shallow wood console table to serve as your vanity base, maximizing walkway space instantly.
- Antique Brass Bathroom Faucet: Install a tall, antique-style brass faucet to complement the vessel sink and add vintage character.
Turn a Tall Chest Into a Petite Vanity
A small chest with chunky character can become a compact antique bathroom vanity that doesn’t overpower the room. I’ve done this in a powder bath and kept the top drawer as a shallow organizer by shifting the plumbing space behind it.
You might like:
- Oval Undermount Bathroom Sink: Transform your antique chest into a functional vanity by installing a classic, durable undermount porcelain sink.
- Antique Brass Widespread Faucet: Complete your vintage look with an elegant widespread faucet featuring a warm, timeless antique brass finish.
- Solid Oak Chest of Drawers: Find the perfect foundation for your DIY project with a sturdy, vertical wood chest offering ample storage.
Fit a Corner Vanity From a Vintage Table
A corner-ready antique bathroom vanity is such a smart surprise, and I’ve made one from an old triangular side table. It felt like a “how is this so cute?” moment once the sink went in and the corner suddenly had purpose.
Useful items to consider:
- White Vessel Sink: Create a classic focal point by mounting a simple, round bowl sink atop your vintage corner table.
- Antique Brass Vessel Faucet: Complete the vintage aesthetic with a tall, single-handle faucet that offers ample clearance for your new basin.
- Matte Black Cabinet Knobs: Update the hardware on your found furniture piece for a cohesive look that matches traditional bathroom fixtures.
Wall-Mount an Antique Drawer Front Vanity
For a lighter look, I’ve turned an old drawer-front unit into a floating antique bathroom vanity by reinforcing it and hiding the support. Seeing that vintage face hovering off the floor made the whole bathroom feel bigger and more custom.
Items that may come in handy:
- Heavy-Duty Floating Shelf Brackets: Secure your wall-mounted vanity safely with discreet, heavy-duty brackets designed to support substantial weight without being visible.
- Matte Black Wall-Mount Faucet: Create a sleek, modern contrast against antique wood by installing a wall-mounted faucet in a matte black finish.
- Oval Vessel Sink: Place a classic white vessel sink atop your vanity to complete the look and maximize usable counter space.
Pair It With an Ornate Wood-Framed Mirror
The fastest way I’ve made an antique bathroom vanity feel intentional is matching it with a vintage-style ornate mirror frame in similar wood tones. I’ve even built a simple frame to echo the vanity’s trim, and it pulled the whole wall together.
Maybe worth checking out:
- Carved Wood Wall Mirrors: Instantly elevate your bathroom’s style by mounting a hand-carved wooden mirror that mimics vintage craftsmanship.
- Woven Seagrass Vases: Add natural texture to your counter space using a woven vase, perfect for holding dried artisanal grasses.
- Dried Pampas Grass Decor: Soften the look of hard surfaces with fluffy, natural dried pampas grass for an effortless, rustic touch.
Use a Vintage Sewing Table Base as a Vanity
One of my favorite “wait, what?” builds was an antique bathroom vanity using a vintage sewing table base—those cast details look incredible under a sink. I added a custom wood top and it instantly became the focal point of the whole bathroom.
A few suggestions:
- Round White Vessel Sink: Upgrade your vintage stand with a clean, classic vessel sink that sits perfectly atop your custom wood surface.
- Antique Brass High-Arc Faucet: Complete the vintage aesthetic by installing a tall, antique-style brass faucet designed to clear the vessel sink’s rim.
- Butcher Block Countertop Slab: Create a sturdy, beautiful foundation for your sink by cutting a solid wood butcher block to the perfect size.
Convert an Antique Trunk Into a Flip-Top Vanity
I once made an antique bathroom vanity from an old trunk by building a waterproof top and letting the lid detail stay visible. It’s quirky in the best way, and the trunk vibe makes storage feel like a secret compartment.
Explore these options:
- Oval Drop-In Bathroom Sink: Find the perfect white drop-in basin to replicate this classic look and fit securely within your modified trunk surface.
- Antique Brass Single Hole Faucet: Add vintage charm to your project with a brass-finish faucet that complements aged wood and steamer trunk hardware.
- Polyurethane Wood Sealer: Protect your antique wood surface from water damage and humidity by applying a durable, waterproof clear finish.
Try an Apothecary Cabinet Vanity With Tiny Drawers
An apothecary cabinet vanity is pure wow as an antique bathroom vanity, because all those little drawers look like a collector’s dream. I’ve used one and loved how it organized the small stuff while still looking like a piece of history.
You might give these a try:
- Apothecary Style Chest: Transform your bathroom storage by repurposing a multi-drawer wooden cabinet for that authentic antique collector’s look.
- Oval Vessel Sink: Top your vintage cabinet with a crisp white vessel sink to create a functional and stylish vanity.
- Antique Brass Faucet: Complete the historic aesthetic by installing a tall, curved faucet with an aged brass or bronze finish.
