Gray is a versatile color that can provide an elegant and sophisticated look in any bathroom. Gray vanities are a popular choice for creating a chic, modern bath space. From light gray to charcoal, gray vanities come in a wide range of hues that can complement any decor. In this blog post, we’ll explore some cool and elegant gray vanity ideas to inspire your next bathroom remodel or redesign.
Why Choose a Gray Vanity?
Before we dive into the inspiration, here are some of the top reasons to consider a gray vanity for your bathroom:
- Timeless and classic: Gray is a neutral tone that has remained popular for years. A gray vanity will stand the test of time with its versatility to work with many styles.
- Provides a clean backdrop: The neutral gray tone doesn’t fight with other colors and patterns in the space. It acts as a great base for layering in pops of color.
- Glamorous and chic: From light greige to dark charcoal, gray vanities have a sophisticated and elegant vibe. They can help create a luxurious bathroom retreat.
- Calming and relaxing: Gray is a soothing hue often associated with balance and relaxation. It’s an excellent color choice for spa-like bathrooms.
- Naturally beautiful: Gray has an organic, mineral-like quality reminiscent of stones and pebbles. Pairing it with natural textures enhances this effect.
Now that you know the many perks of gray vanities, let’s look at some inspiring ways to use this stylish color in your bathroom.
Stunning Gray Vanity Ideas for Any Bathroom
Light Gray Vanities
Light gray vanities provide a soft, elegant look. Often called “greige”, this pale shade of gray works well for transitional styled bathrooms that bridge both traditional and contemporary elements. Here are some ideas for integrating a light gray vanity:
Add touches of white for a breezy, coastal vibe: A light gray vanity popping against crisp white walls and shower tiles will bring the feel of a beach house right into your bathroom. Include weathered white wood accents and ocean-inspired accessories.
A light gray vanity provides an airy, neutral base in this white bathroom. Source
Pair with marble or quartzite for elegance: The cool tones of light gray and white marble or quartzite complement each other beautifully. Install marble herringbone floor tiles and hang a statement geometric pendant light for drama.
Go for open shelving and driftwood: The lightness of open shelves and woven baskets plays nicely against a soft gray vanity. Bring in pieces of weathered, natural driftwood to enhance the coastal vibe.
Add warm woods for contrast: While light gray works well with cool tones, mixing in warm wooden accents can create depth. Try a reclaimed wood mirror frame, rattan storage baskets, or a live edge wood vanity top.
Medium Gray Vanities
A medium gray strikes a nice balance between light and dark for a universally appealing look. From cinder gray to graphite, these shades add style without dominating a space. Ways to include a medium gray vanity:
Create an urban loft aesthetic: Exposed brick walls, black metal finishes, and medium gray cabinets make for a trendy, industrial chic look. Install industrial cage pendant lighting and opt for a sleek rectangular vessel sink.
A medium gray vanity fits right into this urban loft style bathroom. Source
Go for bold, geometric tiles: The mid-tone gray acts as the perfect neutral backdrop for graphic black and white tile. Try arranging in an offset pattern or mosaic grid for lots of visual interest.
Pair with a monochromatic color scheme: Sticking to a single color palette of gray allows the vanity to blend seamlessly into the space. Choose lighter floors, darker walls, and different gray textures.
Add warmth with wood accents: Incorporate warm wood tones through the cabinetry, live edge vanity top, open shelving, or framed mirrors to offset the cooler gray.
Include green accents for a spa vibe: Complimentary colors like sage green, moss green, and jade green accent tiles or accessories will make a medium gray vanity feel serene. Think stone, linen, and wood textures.
Dark Gray or Charcoal Vanities
For a bold, dramatic statement, a dark gray or charcoal vanity packs a stylish punch. While potentially overpowering in a small bathroom, it adds modern flair to a spacious room. Ideas include:
Go for an edgy, moody atmosphere: A glossy charcoal gray vanity against a dramatic dark wallpaper or black penny tile floor will create a glamorous, moody vibe. Add in lots of candles and sleek silver or black metal finishes.
A dark gray double vanity stands out against the black penny tile floor. Source
Balance with light marble: Pairing white Carrara or Calacatta marble against the deep charcoal gray adds balance. The two opposing tones play off each other in an elegant, sophisticated way.
Include contrasting wood accents: Blend black walnut or oak wood shelving, framed mirrors, or stools against the vanity to break up the dark tones.
Add pops of bright color: Prevent it from feeling too dark by integrating vibrant turquoise or coral art and accessories. The charcoal gray will make the bright colors pop.
Go high-gloss for retro glam: A lacquered charcoal gray vanity with brass hardware and accents will channel a chic vintage Hollywood vibe. Include rounded mirrors, sconces, and lush fur rugs.
Choosing the Right Gray Shade for Your Space
With so many gray shades to choose from, it can be tricky settling on the right one for your bathroom. Here are some tips:
- Take inspiration from your existing bathroom elements like tile, grout, tub, or fixtures. Matching the undertones in those items will give a cohesive look.
- Factor in the amount of natural light. Dark charcoal can feel oppressive in a low light bathroom, while bright whites energize a space. Stick to mid-tones in both cases.
- Small bathrooms do best with lighter gray tones to prevent it from feeling closed in and heavy. Larger bathrooms can handle deeper, dramatic charcoals.
- Be mindful of the style you want to achieve. Cool weathered grays complement coastal spaces, while bold charcoals work well for modern and contemporary decor.
- Don’t overlook “greige”, a blend of gray and beige. This flexible shade adds a light warmth that works with both cool and warm color schemes.
Choosing your gray is just step one. Now let’s look at vanity styles, materials, sizes and other design factors that maximize your gray vanity.
Gray Vanity Styles to Suit Your Space
Beyond just the color, gray vanities come in a wide variety of materials and designs. Consider what vanity style will best match your bathroom’s particular size and layout.
Freestanding Gray Vanities
Freestanding vanities make a striking focal point, especially in a double vanity configuration. With exposed legs, these vanities have an airy, furniture-like feel.
- Pros: Visually lighter look, flexibility with placement, easy cleaning beneath.
- Cons: Less storage than built-in vanities, plumbing is exposed.
- Tips: Leave space around all sides, anchor to wall for stability, choose water-resistant finish for legs.
A light gray freestanding double vanity makes a statement. Source
Gray Wall-Mounted Vanities
Wall mounted vanities are fixed right to the wall for a super space-saving option. Great for small or awkward layouts.
- Pros: Space-efficient, creates a floating look, easy to clean floor beneath.
- Cons: Provides less storage, not ideal for resale value.
- Tips: Ensure it is properly secured to studs, choose a water-resistant finish.
A floating gray vanity maximizes space in this small bathroom. Source
Gray Vessel Sink Vanities
Vessel sinks sit atop the vanity surface for a modern, sculptural look. The stark gray color keeps the focus on the unique sink shape.
- Pros: Stylish and contemporary aesthetic, easier cleaning with no sink rim lip.
- Cons: Higher potential for splashing, vessel sinks offer less water capacity.
- Tips: Select a sink and faucet combo that work well together visually. Allow for proper sink clearance.
A light gray vanity allows the round white vessel sink to pop. Source
Gray Double Vanities
Double vanities provide his and hers sinks while maximizing counter space. The two vanities can match or incorporate different styles.
- Pros: Allows two people to use the bathroom at once. More storage and counter space.
- Cons: Takes up more floor space than a single vanity. Higher cost.
- Tips: Include a makeup area on one side. Allow 30-36 inches between vanities for movement.
A medium gray double vanity adds ample storage and counters. Source
Choosing the Right Gray Vanity Materials
Gray vanities are available in an array of materials from wood to enameled metal. Consider maintenance, durability, and style preferences when selecting materials.
Wood Gray Vanities
- Natural wood gray vanities add beautiful grain patterns and variation. Stainsrange from light driftwood gray to nearly black ebony.
- Durability depends on the wood. Oak and maple are remarkably strong. Opt for moisture-resistant finishes.
- Over time, wood may show scratches and dents. Avoid banging doors or placing hot items on top.
A gray stained oak wood vanity adds warmth. Source
Laminate Gray Vanities
- Affordable laminate vanities mimic the look of real wood with gray woodgrain patterns. Great budget option.
- Laminate resists moisture, stains, and scratches better than real wood. Cleanup is easy.
- Quality varies. Look for durable melamine laminate and avoid peel-and-stick laminate finishes.
A gray laminate vanity provides the look of wood for less. Source
Thermofoil Gray Vanities
- Thermofoil vanities have a vinyl film gray finish fused to wood substrate with heat and pressure. Budget-friendly.
- Highly water resistant and durable. Easy to wipe down and keep clean. Thermofoil won’t peel or chip.
- Limited style selection. Doesn’t have the depth and richness of real wood grain patterns.
A gray thermofoil vanity withstands moisture and heavy use. Source
Lacquer Gray Vanities
- Lacquer finishes involve coating wood veneers with gray tinted clear-coat lacquer for a glossy effect.
- Extremely water and scratch resistant. Easy to clean and maintain. Achieves a rich, upscale look.
- Prone to chipping. Avoid using abrasive cleaners. Too glossy for some tastes.
A gray lacquered vanity has a timeless yet glamorous vibe. Source
Concrete Gray Vanities
- Concrete vanities are colored and molded gray for an organic, one-of-a-kind look.
- Nearly indestructible durability. Concrete resists scratches, stains and is easy to clean.
- On the heavy side. Allow ample time for custom concrete pouring and curing during installation.
A custom gray concrete vanity makes a unique statement. Source
Metal or Iron Gray Vanities
- For industrial edge, metal vanities come in powder-coated iron, galvanized tin, and stainless steel.
- Extremely durable and water resistant. Easy to clean. Metals like stainless steel are antimicrobial.
- Potenial for scratches and dents over time. Condensation issues if not properly insulated.
Industrial chic metal vanities add urban edge. Source
Best Gray Vanity Cabinet Finishes
Beyond the main materials, there are different cabinet finish options that impact the look and durability of gray vanities.
High Gloss Finish
- Provides a shiny, reflective lacquer-like finish. Easy to wipe down and clean.
- Trendy and elegant, but shows fingerprints easily. Avoid in high traffic baths.
Matte Finish
- A flatter, non-reflective softened finish. Feels warmer and more natural than high-gloss.
- Doesn’t showcase scratches and watermarks as much as glossy finishes. Provides a good workhorse option.
Distressed Finish
- Artificially weathered and worn finish. Adds vintage farmhouse charm.
- Helps hide everyday dings and scratches. Most attractive on natural wood grains.
Painted Finish
- DIY-friendly option. Use cabinet-grade paint for best adhesion and durability.
- Soft, subtle look. Allows you to customize cabinet color. Prone to chipping over time.
Consider cabinet finish options like high gloss, matte, distressed, or painted. Source
Gray Vanity Top Material Ideas
The vanity top plays a big role in the overall look and durability of your gray vanity. Here are some top countertop ideas to consider:
Quartz
- Highly durable with a natural stone-like pattern. Resists stains, scratches, and heat.
- Non-porous so doesn’t require regular sealing. Many color options including grays.
Marble
- Elegant white Carrara or gray veining options. Provides luxury on a budget.
- Requires regular sealing as marble is porous. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can etch surface.
Butcher Block
- Warm wood tones that contrast beautifully against cool grays. Eco-friendly.
- Needs regular oiling to maintain water resistance. Can scratch and stain over time.
Concrete
- Unique gray concrete perfectly complements a gray vanity. Can be customized.
- Heavy and permanent install. Raw concrete needs regular sealing. Improper sealing can lead to cracks.
Laminate
- Budget-friendly option that comes in many gray woodgrain patterns. Easy install.
- Not as durable. Avoid hot items, heavy impact, or abrasive cleaners. Can peel over time.
Quartz, marble, wood, concrete, and laminate make excellent gray vanity top options. Source