Choosing a bathroom vanity for a new build may seem straightforward. You choose a style, pick a finish, confirm the basin, and place the order.

But in a new build bathroom, the vanity is not just a cabinet. It affects plumbing, wall set-out, mirror placement, lighting, storage, door clearance, moisture protection and the way the bathroom feels every morning.

The best vanity size is not always the largest one that fits. It is the one that works with the room width, basin position, plumbing, circulation space, storage needs and future maintenance.

For most New Zealand new build bathrooms, common vanity widths include 600mm, 750mm, 900mm, 1200mm, 1500mm and 1800mm, which is why it helps to compare bathroom vanities in New Zealand before finalising plumbing and electrical set-out. Compact powder rooms may need a slim vanity around 400mm–600mm wide, while family bathrooms and master ensuites often suit 900mm–1500mm vanities, depending on available wall space and whether one or two basins are needed.

Before buying, measure the full vanity wall, check plumbing positions, confirm door and drawer clearance, allow space around the toilet and shower, and think about how the vanity will be used every day.

Why vanity measurement matters in a new build

In a renovation, homeowners often have to work around existing plumbing and wall positions. In a new build, you have more freedom — but that also means decisions need to be made earlier.

Your vanity choice can affect:

• wall framing
• plumbing rough-in
• waste position
• hot and cold water supply points
• mirror size
• wall light or LED mirror placement
• power point position
• tile layout
• waterproofing and splash areas
• bathroom door clearance
• shower screen clearance
• towel rail position
• storage and cleaning access

This is why a vanity should be selected before final plumbing and electrical set-out, not after the walls are finished.

In New Zealand bathrooms, moisture performance also matters. Building Performance explains that wet-area surfaces need to be impervious, easily cleaned and ventilated to support health and safety under Building Code Clause E3 Internal Moisture. That means the vanity area should be planned with splash, ventilation, surface finishes and cleaning access in mind.

Quick vanity size guide

Use this table as a starting point, not a rule. The right size depends on the full bathroom layout.

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Step 1: Measure the full vanity wall

Start by measuring the full wall where the vanity will sit. Measure:

• total wall width
• distance from corners
• distance to shower glass
• distance to toilet
• distance to bathroom door
• distance to windows
• distance to any nib wall or tiled feature wall
• available height above the vanity

Do not only measure the cabinet width. A 900mm vanity may physically fit on a 950mm wall, but it may still feel cramped if it sits too close to a shower, toilet or doorway.

A better method is to mark the vanity width on the floor and wall with painter’s tape. Then stand in the room and test the movement.

Ask:

• Can someone stand at the basin comfortably?
• Can vanity drawers open fully?
• Will the bathroom door hit the vanity?
• Will the shower door hit the vanity?
• Is there space to clean the sides?
• Does the room still feel balanced?

Step 2: Choose the right width

Vanity width is usually the first measurement people consider.

600mm vanity

A 600mm vanity is a practical compact option. It is suitable for small bathrooms, guest bathrooms and ensuites where space is limited.

Best for:

• small ensuites
• compact new builds
• guest bathrooms
• narrow bathrooms
• rental or secondary bathrooms

Main advantage:

• saves wall space
• still gives useful storage
• works with standard basin mixer layouts

Main trade-off:

• limited bench space
• less drawer storage
• may feel small for a main family bathroom

750mm vanity

A 750mm vanity often feels more comfortable than 600mm without needing a large wall.

Best for:

• standard ensuites
• townhouse bathrooms
• small family bathrooms
• single-user bathrooms with more storage needs

Main advantage:

• better bench space
• more storage
• still compact enough for many layouts

900mm vanity

A 900mm vanity is one of the most useful all-round sizes for New Zealand bathrooms.

Best for:

• main bathrooms
• larger ensuites
• family bathrooms
• homeowners wanting good storage without oversizing

Main advantage:

• strong storage
• comfortable basin area
• balanced visual scale

1200mm vanity

A 1200mm vanity suits larger bathrooms and master ensuites. It can work as a generous single vanity or, in some designs, a compact double vanity.

Best for:

• master ensuites
• family bathrooms
• wider vanity walls
• homes needing more storage

Main advantage:

• generous bench space
• better storage
• premium look

Main trade-off:

• may crowd smaller bathrooms
• needs enough wall length and circulation

1500mm–1800mm vanity

These larger vanities are usually chosen for master ensuites or high-end bathrooms.

Best for:

• double basin layouts
• large family bathrooms
• luxury ensuites
• shared morning routines

Main advantage:

• strong storage and bench space
• supports two users
• creates a premium focal point

Main trade-off:

• needs generous room width
• can dominate the bathroom if oversized

Step 3: Check vanity depth

Depth is just as important as width, especially in small New Zealand bathrooms, townhouses and ensuites.

Common vanity depths include:

A slim vanity can be useful when the bathroom is narrow or when the vanity sits opposite a shower, toilet or door. For compact ensuites, apartments and powder rooms, slim bathroom vanities can help preserve walkway space while still providing practical storage. NZHomeware’s slim vanity category describes slim vanities as space-saving bathroom cabinets for small bathrooms, ensuites and apartments, with reduced depths commonly around 220mm–360mm.

Depth affects:

• walkway space
• drawer opening
• basin size
• splash control
• under-cabinet plumbing
• storage capacity
• visual weight

A deeper vanity gives more storage, but it can make a narrow bathroom feel tight. A shallow vanity saves space, but the basin may be smaller and more prone to splash if not chosen carefully.

Step 4: Decide wall-hung or floor-standing

Wall-hung vanity

A wall-hung vanity, also called a floating vanity, is fixed to the wall and leaves the floor visible underneath.

Best for:

• modern bathrooms
• small bathrooms
• ensuites
• new builds with planned wall framing
• easy floor cleaning
• visually lighter layouts

Advantages:

• makes the floor feel more open
• easier to clean underneath
• modern appearance
• height can sometimes be set more flexibly
• works well with LED mirrors and feature tiles

Important measurement note:

A wall-hung vanity needs suitable wall support. In a new build, confirm nogs/framing with the builder before the wall linings go on. Do not leave this until after tiling.

Floor-standing vanity

A floor-standing vanity sits on the floor.

Best for:

• family bathrooms
• larger storage needs
• traditional layouts
• easier installation in some projects
• heavier cabinetry styles

Advantages:

• more visual weight
• strong storage
• less reliance on wall fixing
• can suit classic or transitional bathrooms

Main trade-off:

• less visible floor area
• harder to clean around the base
• may feel heavier in a small bathroom

NZHomeware’s bathroom vanity range includes both wall-hung and floor-standing plywood vanity options, making this choice relevant for new build planning.

Step 5: Set the right vanity height

Vanity height affects comfort every day.

Many bathroom vanities sit around 800mm–900mm high, depending on cabinet design, basin type and household preference. A vessel basin on top of the counter may require a lower cabinet so the final rim height does not feel too high.

Measure the final working height, not just the cabinet height.

Consider:

• height of users
• basin type
• thickness of benchtop
• vessel basin rim height
• mirror position
• tapware height
• children or elderly users
• whether the bathroom is for guests, family or a master ensuite

For example:

• undermount or integrated basin: cabinet height may be closer to final working height
• above-counter basin: add the basin height to the cabinet height
• family bathroom: avoid making the vanity too high for children
• master ensuite: comfort for adult users may be the priority

Step 6: Measure plumbing positions early

For a new build, plumbing rough-in should match the vanity before walls are closed.

Check:

• waste outlet position
• hot and cold water supply position
• whether plumbing comes from wall or floor
• drawer clearance around pipes
• trap position
• basin waste position
• mixer hole position
• whether the vanity has drawers, doors or open shelves
• whether a wall-hung vanity needs concealed plumbing

A common mistake is choosing a vanity with large drawers after the plumber has already set pipes in the wrong location. The result can be cut drawers, awkward pipework or reduced storage.

The New Zealand Building Code G1 Personal Hygiene covers the provision of sanitary fixtures including basins, while G13 relates to foul water discharge from sanitary plumbing systems. For homeowners, the practical point is simple: basin and vanity choices should be coordinated with plumbing early.

Step 7: Allow drawer and door clearance

A vanity may fit on the wall but still fail in daily use if drawers cannot open.

Check clearance against:

• bathroom entry door
• shower door
• toilet
• towel rail
• bath edge
• laundry appliances
• opposite wall
• robe hook
• floor-mounted door stop

For drawer vanities, measure the full drawer extension. If the drawer hits a towel rail or toilet, the vanity will be frustrating every day.

In small bathrooms, this is often more important than the vanity width itself.

Step 8: Coordinate the vanity with the mirror

A vanity should be planned with the mirror or mirror cabinet.

A simple starting point:

NZHomeware’s own blog content on vanity mirror sizing uses a similar practical guide, suggesting mirror width should generally relate to vanity width rather than simply filling the wall.

Also check:

• mirror height
• eye level
• wall light position
• power point location for LED mirror
• shaving cabinet depth
• clearance to ceiling
• clearance to splashback or tiles
• whether the mirror aligns with the basin or cabinet

If using an LED mirror, plan power before the wall is finished.

Step 9: Plan tapware and basin together

The basin, tap and vanity must work as one system.

Check:

• basin position
• mixer height
• mixer reach
• tap hole location
• splashback height
• distance from mixer to wall
• clearance behind basin
• whether tapware is deck-mounted or wall-mounted
• whether the basin has overflow
• whether the basin waste matches the design

A tall basin mixer may look elegant but splash if paired with a shallow basin. A short mixer may not reach comfortably into a large basin.

If choosing wall-mounted tapware, rough-in must be planned early, because the mixer body and outlet position are set inside the wall.

Step 10: Consider storage needs

The right vanity size depends heavily on storage.

Ask what needs to live inside the vanity:

• toilet paper
• cleaning products
• hairdryer
• skincare
• shaving items
• spare towels
• children’s bath items
• medicine
• makeup
• electric toothbrush chargers
• guest supplies

A 600mm vanity may suit a guest bathroom, but it may be too small for a family bathroom if it needs to hold daily products for several people.

Drawer vanities usually make storage easier to access than deep cupboards. However, drawers need careful plumbing coordination.

Step 11: Think about moisture and splash

A bathroom vanity lives in a damp environment.

Measure and plan around:

• shower splash
• basin splash
• ventilation
• towel drying
• wall finish behind vanity
• silicone and sealing
• cabinet material
• floor clearance
• cleaning access

Building Performance states that surfaces in wet areas need to be impervious, easily cleaned and ventilated for health and safety. This is directly relevant to the vanity wall, especially where water can splash around the basin.

Practical choices include:

• tiled splashback
• moisture-resistant wall lining or paint
• proper sealing around benchtop and wall
• good ventilation
• avoiding vanities too close to shower spray
• choosing materials suitable for bathroom use
• leaving enough access for cleaning

Step 12: Match the vanity size to the bathroom type

Powder room

Best vanity size: 400mm–600mm

Priorities:

• compact depth
• small basin
• easy access
• enough space around toilet
• simple storage

Small ensuite

Best vanity size:

600mm–750mm

Priorities:

• slim depth if needed
• wall-hung design
• mirror storage
• clear shower access
• good lighting

Standard family bathroom

Best vanity size:

750mm–1200mm

Priorities:

• storage
• durable finish
• easy-clean basin
• enough bench space
• practical mirror

Master ensuite

Best vanity size:

900mm–1800mm

Priorities:

• comfort
• storage
• double basin if needed
• premium finish
• integrated lighting
• balanced layout

Accessible or future-ready bathroom

Best vanity size:

Depends on access needs.

Priorities:

• approach space
• basin reach
• knee clearance where required
• tap ease of use
• safe movement
• professional design guidance

For accessible facilities, Building Performance provides specific guidance under G1 and accessibility requirements, so future-ready or accessible bathrooms should be planned with the relevant standards and professional advice.

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Vanity size decision table

Common measurement mistakes

Choosing the vanity too late

In a new build, vanity size should be known before plumbing and electrical rough-in.

Measuring only the cabinet

Measure wall space, drawer clearance, plumbing, mirror, tapware and movement space.

Choosing a vanity that is too deep

A deep vanity can make a narrow bathroom feel cramped.

Ignoring basin height

Above-counter basins can make the final working height too high if not planned correctly.

Forgetting drawer plumbing

Pipes can block drawers if the vanity and plumbing are not coordinated.

Placing the vanity too close to the shower

This can increase splash, cleaning issues and moisture exposure.

Oversizing the master vanity

A large vanity looks premium only when the room has enough breathing space.

Not planning mirror and lighting

The vanity wall should be designed as a complete zone: cabinet, basin, tapware, mirror, lighting and power.

Bathroom vanity measurement checklist

Before ordering your vanity, confirm:

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How to make the vanity look more expensive

A vanity does not need to be oversized to look high-end.

To create a more premium look:

• choose the right scale for the room
• use a wall-hung vanity to expose floor space
• coordinate tapware and handles
• match the mirror width to the vanity
• add an LED mirror for better lighting
• use a tiled splashback or feature wall
• keep the basin and mixer proportional
• avoid crowding the vanity with accessories
• choose consistent finishes
• use storage to hide daily clutter

HomeBlog Magazine’s New Zealand bathroom design guide makes a useful point: modern bathroom design is increasingly about supporting everyday routines, better storage, moisture control and more efficient movement, especially in compact New Zealand homes. A well-measured vanity supports all of those goals.

FAQ

What is the best bathroom vanity size for a New Zealand new build?

For many new build bathrooms, 750mm–900mm works well for an ensuite, 900mm–1200mm works well for a family bathroom, and 1200mm–1800mm suits larger master ensuites. Small powder rooms may need a compact vanity around 400mm–600mm.

Is a 600mm vanity too small?

A 600mm vanity can work well in a small ensuite, guest bathroom or powder room. It may feel too small for a main family bathroom if multiple people need storage.

Is a 900mm vanity a good size?

Yes. A 900mm vanity is one of the most practical all-round sizes because it offers good storage and bench space without overwhelming many bathrooms.

Should I choose a wall-hung or floor-standing vanity?

Choose a wall-hung vanity if you want a modern, lighter look and easier floor cleaning. Choose a floor-standing vanity if you want more visual weight or maximum storage. For new builds, wall support for wall-hung vanities should be planned before lining and tiling.

What vanity depth is best for a small bathroom?

Slim vanities around 220mm–360mm deep can work well in very narrow bathrooms, ensuites and apartments. Standard vanities are often deeper and provide more storage, but they need more walkway space.

How high should a bathroom vanity be?

Many vanities sit around 800mm–900mm high, but the right height depends on the basin type and users. If using an above-counter basin, calculate the final rim height before ordering.

Do I need to choose the vanity before plumbing?

Yes. In a new build, the vanity should be chosen before plumbing rough-in so waste, hot water and cold water positions match the cabinet and drawers.

How wide should the mirror be above a vanity?

A common approach is to choose a mirror slightly narrower than the vanity. For example, a 900mm vanity often pairs well with a mirror around 700mm–850mm wide, depending on the style and wall space.

Does the vanity wall need splash protection?

The vanity area is exposed to water splash, so the wall finish should be suitable for a bathroom environment. Building Performance notes that wet-area surfaces should be impervious, easily cleaned and ventilated to support health and safety.

Can I install a double vanity in a small bathroom?

Sometimes, but it depends on wall width, plumbing, drawer clearance and circulation. A 1200mm vanity may provide generous single-basin storage, while a 1500mm–1800mm vanity is usually more comfortable for a true double-basin layout.

Final thoughts

A bathroom vanity is one of the hardest-working parts of a new build bathroom. It holds the basin, hides plumbing, provides storage, supports daily routines and often becomes the visual centre of the room.

The best vanity size is not simply the widest cabinet that fits. It is the size that balances storage, movement, plumbing, moisture protection, mirror placement and long-term usability.

For small bathrooms, measure depth and clearance carefully. For family bathrooms, prioritise storage and durability. For master ensuites, think about comfort, lighting and whether a double vanity genuinely improves the morning routine.

Before ordering, measure the full wall, confirm plumbing, check drawer clearance, plan the mirror and lighting, and make sure the vanity area is easy to clean and suitable for a wet environment.

A well-measured vanity does more than complete a bathroom. It makes the room easier to use every day.