Bathroom countertop under the sink: a stylish and ergonomic item with a comfortable layout. Bathroom countertop. Overview of materials and types of structures Installation methods and procedures

A bathroom is a special area in a house or apartment, where comfort and coziness must reign supreme.

Here they relax, have a rest, relax and get rid of fatigue and stress that has accumulated over the whole day. From year to year, the design and design have changed, supplemented and improved to meet the fashion and requirements of the person.

Significantly different from those that were in fashion several decades ago.

The main difference is the introduction of various innovations that perform not only a decorative, but also a practical function, which is especially necessary in small bathrooms.

The countertop is a convenient and practical attribute of a modern bathroom

An item such as a bathroom countertop is considered one of the innovations. Today, this attribute is found in almost any home. The countertop in the bathroom under the sink is a convenient and practical thing that is installed in both compact and small rooms.

Experts note that before the countertops were used only as part of a set with a washbasin, such as "washbasin", now this item is an independent attribute.

Thus, a bathroom with a countertop is found in almost every apartment. Let's consider in more detail this subject, its types and functions.

In this informative article, using the photographs of bathroom countertops that are provided in this material, you can visually evaluate the appearance and functionality of the attribute.

In modern interiors, bathroom countertops for a bathtub or sink are presented in the form of a full-fledged rack. Its shape and size can be varied, depending on the wishes of the customer and the possibilities of the room.

Countertops are used to store various items needed in: cosmetics, household chemicals, hygiene products, etc. All the necessary things in a visible place and always at hand, if necessary.

Very often a sink is installed in the countertop. It is supplemented with shelves, drawers, pendants and more. Thus, the table top becomes a piece of furniture. The bathroom countertop washbasin will wear off very neatly and go well with a variety of design styles.

You can also install an outlet in the countertop, which will definitely come in handy when using electrical appliances. It is worth noting that the above attribute is used to place various decorative elements or aromatic mixtures on its surface.

Nowadays, choosing a bathroom countertop that is perfect for your room is not difficult at all. Modern stores offer a huge selection of countertops in various shapes and sizes. Both natural and artificial materials.

Types of countertops

For the manufacture of this attribute, a huge selection of different materials is used: wood, stone, plastic, glass and so on. The simplest models are made from MDF. Better, more exclusive and more expensive, they are made of durable glass or artificial stone.

Such models look amazing, impressive and stylish. A stone bathtub top will last for many years without losing its appearance.

Many people mistakenly believe that bathroom and kitchen countertops are practically the same thing. However, these are different attributes. Their main difference is that other materials are used for kitchen countertops, because it is more susceptible to various damage.

In addition to the countertops in which the sink is installed, there are models designed for the bathroom. The overhead countertop for the bathtub is a very convenient, stylish and practical solution. On it you can place everything you need nearby and during the adoption of water procedures they will always be at hand.

With the help of the countertop, you can successfully decorate the bathtub for any style.

Photo of countertops in the interior of the bathroom

In any apartment there is a place from which to start preparing for the upcoming working day, putting oneself in order after sleep, and where they rest from worries in a warm and foamy bath. The overall mood to some extent depends on the design of this room.

An original and comfortable countertop in the bathroom is a place for daily water procedures. Here you can comfortably settle down with the most necessary personal hygiene items.

Most apartments have a minimum bathroom area, and each piece of furniture must be carefully selected, functional and pleasing to the eye.

Varieties of countertops under the washbasin

A countertop washbasin is not so common in a bathroom. Traditionally, they are mounted on the wall, resting on a pedestal or a curbstone (like a sink) without an additional plane. But then there is a need for additional shelves, wall cabinets and niches.

A countertop with a washbasin solves several furnishing problems at the same time. Under it there is the possibility of placing a washing machine, laundry basket or shelves for clean towels.

Convenient planes for hygiene items differ in size and design, as in the photo of bathroom countertops.

They are available in a variety of natural and synthetic materials:

metal (steel, chrome alloys, copper, bronze);
glass (transparent, frosted, colored, stained glass);
faience and porcelain (or cheap analogs);
quartz agglomerate;
plastic, acrylic and polymer materials;
marble, granite and ornamental stone (onyx, malachite, agate, jasper);
MDF or moisture resistant laminate;
artificial and "flexible" stone.

Please note: Natural stone countertops for bathrooms are often very expensive. They are made to order or offered ready-made. Imitation of natural materials will fit into a sophisticated design with dignity, but they have different properties.

Quite often the countertop merges with the sink, forming a single container for washing. In a family with many children, several sinks can be placed on one stand.

It is very convenient - you do not need to queue up in the bathroom in the morning. The common surface makes cleaning easier and creates a holistic feeling in the decor of the room.

The appearance of the original countertop can transform the look of any bathroom. For example, for a nautical-style bathtub, a glass box is suitable, where strange shells brought from exotic islands have been placed, or smooth pebbles. Even real aquariums are produced, which serve as tabletops.

Tabletops differ in the way they are fastened:

With supports or feet on the floor.
Built-in models.
Countertops suspended on brackets in the bathroom under the sink.

For interior design in a historical or palace style, a luxurious countertop with a washbasin in the form of a console on two legs is suitable. Its purpose is to replace a bulky wooden cabinet for storing small items. And it is better to place cleaning products and other household items in closed wall cabinets with elegant doors.

Bathroom countertops have structural differences:

One-piece (monolithic) planes with a recess instead of a washbasin.
With 1 or more countertop washbasins.
With partially built-in water tank.
A common countertop in the bathroom, replacing the window sill, shelves, plumbing stand and washbasin.

The overall plane may differ in thickness and material, have an extravagant or classic look, depending on the interior design.

Stone stands that replace the washbasin cabinet look luxurious, especially when they are made of marble and other natural materials with a unique texture and pattern.

It is important to know: Natural stone cannot be cleaned with household chemicals with abrasive particles, they scratch the polished surface. Some reagents can discolor the surface. Porous stone and untreated wood are difficult to remove paint and mold, no matter how attractive the design may be.

Glass countertops

Glass countertops look very light and elegant, they seem to be weightless, visually they do not take up space in space. Ideal for small spaces, they blend perfectly with glass shelves and corners.

Traces of drops are visible on the glasses, which can be easily removed with a soft cloth. The smooth surface is quite hygienic, does not accumulate mold and mildew spores, does not retain odors. Fragile in appearance, these countertops are available in thick tempered glass with a beveled edge.

The transparent base is suitable for any finishing materials, and the colored glass is matched to the decor.

Artificial stone countertops

Countertops made of artificial stone and other synthetic materials that replace natural counterparts are very practical and attractive. Quartz agglomerate and acrylic fillers with natural stone chips are distinguished by a rich color palette.

The material is much lighter than natural stone, but it looks weighty. Such accessories look good in a spacious bathroom. They are easy to care for - they are not afraid of cleaning with products with abrasive particles.

Plastic countertops

Plastic is a practical budget option for a small bathroom, and countertops on this basis are very popular, and their design is often not inferior to expensive models.

Thanks to their practicality, synthetic materials are suitable not only for lining bathrooms, but also remain an excellent alternative to expensive decor.

Wooden countertops

Wood is a living material that is traditionally used for cladding a bath, it is also applicable for a bathroom with good ventilation. Wood decor is widely used in design practice. But without proper processing and coating with colorless varnish, wood countertops are subject to fluctuations in temperature and humidity.

Ecological, rustic and ethnic styles are the fiefdom of natural materials. Imitation of wood is actively used to decorate bathrooms of other styles, it is cheaper and more practical.

Countertops with sinks are bought ready-made or built-in to order. More interesting ideas are in our gallery.

Photo of countertops in the bathroom

The bathroom is one of the most visited places in the house, both by the owner and by the guests. It should be as practical, functional and at the same time comfortable. In this article, you will be able to find out how many nuances and problems arise when choosing a countertop for a bathroom, what you can give preference to and what you should refrain from.

What to look for when choosing a bathroom countertop

Basic moments:

Moisture resistant(for durability, the countertop must be resistant to moisture, materials such as wood, drywall do not tolerate moisture well).
Quality material and quality work(do not save on the master and buy cheap material, otherwise, over time, there will be many problems with the countertop).
Resistant to temperature changes(it happens that the material is of high quality and the work is done correctly, but after a year (or less) the countertop needs to be changed, some materials are not able to withstand temperature changes).
Installation method(this moment must be thought out from the very beginning, how it will be located, how it will be installed or how it will be attached).
The material from which the tabletop is made(there is a large number of various materials, choosing which you need to familiarize yourself with all the nuances).
Harmony with the interior(the color, shape of the countertop, its location, and how this is combined with the overall decor of the bathroom).
Convenience and practicality(it should be aesthetically beautiful, comfortable and functional, contain everything you need).

Types of countertops and their features

One piece worktop and sink (one-piece)

This is the best option, as it is as hygienic as possible. The countertop and sink do not form seams (joints) into which dirt and bacteria can penetrate. After a breakdown, it is not repaired, the tabletop changes.

Most often, such a model is made from natural stone (possibly from artificial stone) and glass. The only negative is the price. You can install a washing machine, shelves or bedside table under the tabletop.

The washbasin is built into the countertop

This is a fairly common option and not the best one. For the reason that a seam forms between the sink and the countertop, in which dirt accumulates, moisture collects, and as a result bacteria and fungi multiply.

Another disadvantage is that this dirt is difficult, almost impossible to wash, since the gap is too small for this.
This model is quite economical and convenient. It makes it possible to combine cabinets, shelves, install a washing machine.

The sink bowl is stacked on the countertop

This option, like the previous one, is less successful, since it is not hygienic enough. A joint forms between the sink and the countertop, in which dirt accumulates, and as a result bacteria multiply.

This method of combining a sink and a countertop is inexpensive and easy to install. Under the table top, you can place a bedside table, shelves, drawers.

Installation

The table top can be of two types:

Floor-standing (table-top with legs, installed on furniture).
Wall-mounted (attached to the wall).

Table top with legs

This is the easiest option. Does not require anchors. Does not create additional stress on the walls. A cabinet or bedside table can be placed under the countertop; they will hold all the necessary things. But during cleaning, inconveniences can arise.

The table top is installed on furniture

The most difficult mounting option. It can be attached to the floor stand with self-tapping screws, or to the supports (walls) in which the shelves are placed.

The table top is mounted on the wall

Floor supports are not used, it is fixed with a bracket. The load is applied to the walls. This option is convenient for cleaning. The free space can be used under a bedside table, shelves or drawers. Good aesthetic appearance.

Materials (edit)

Artificial stone

One of the popular options. This material is strong, reliable and durable enough. Easy to clean and comes in a wide range of colors.

It makes it possible to make a tabletop of the required shape, as well as it can be repaired. Artificial stone is cheaper than natural, and therefore more affordable. Poorly tolerates high temperatures.

Made of plastic

This is an economical option. Allows you to make the surface as smooth as possible. There are a huge number of colors.

You can use any detergents (but do not use metal sponges - they will scratch the surface, as well as acetone and solvent - they have a bad effect on the top layer of the countertop).

Mechanical damage is not eliminated, and in case of larger damage, it is necessary to change the entire tabletop. Easy to install, easy to clean. But it won't last long. A fungus may appear on it. This material tends to fade.

Advice: if the choice fell on a plastic tabletop, then it is advisable to make it floor-standing, since there are no difficulties during installation and more space for use.

Drywall

This is one of the common options. If you choose drywall that is resistant to moisture, it will last a long time. It is strong enough and allows you to make a tabletop of any shape.

It is advisable to cover the material with additional protective agents against moisture (it is very afraid of moisture and water). For greater strength, plywood is placed under the drywall.

You can do it at home and install it yourself. The surface of the drywall can be covered with both tiles and mosaics. These both options, if desired and with the right approach, can be combined.

From tiles

This option for finishing the countertop immediately implies a plasterboard base. This method of making a countertop is not the easiest, but with some knowledge and skills, you can do it yourself.

Such a tabletop will be moisture resistant and will last longer than a wooden one. Not afraid of mechanical stress and temperature changes. Easy enough to care for. Allows the use of a wide variety of detergents.

From the mosaic

This option for finishing the countertop, like the previous one, requires a plasterboard base. The tabletop will be strong enough, resistant to moisture, temperature changes and also not afraid of mechanical stress. The work is more time consuming than with tiles. It is more difficult to care for it (it is more difficult to clean the mosaic from dirt).

Advice: the whole bath can be completely made of tiles, and the countertop is made of mosaics, the main thing is to choose the right color scheme and tile size.

MDF

This material is slightly better than wood. It is more resistant to moisture and temperature extremes, as well as cheaper. Does not require constant and careful maintenance. But for longer use it is necessary to varnish.

Afraid of mechanical damage, with a small scratch, it will become unusable in a few months. The table top made of such material is easy and simple to install. It can even be done at home.

Marble countertop

Marble is a pretty good material. A tabletop made of such material will be good, exquisite, and look expensive. It is not afraid of moisture, tolerates temperature changes well, and is also not afraid of mechanical damage.

Does not require careful maintenance. Allows you to select the desired shape, with a variety of colors. Allows the use of various detergents. It does not leave streaks like on glass. Suitable for any style of bath and will highlight its individuality.

The downside of marble bathroom countertops is the high price. But it must be borne in mind that at such a price, it will last a long time.

Wood

Such a tabletop is quite natural and attractive in appearance. Fills the room with coziness and warmth. It can be made in the most necessary way (solid, with a mortise sink), it will look good in floor and wall versions.

This material is not durable, wood tends to absorb moisture, swell and rot. Requires constant care and a very careful attitude. Afraid of mechanical damage. To extend the service life, the material must be impregnated with special agents or varnished.

From glass

Such a tabletop is only solid-cast, since it is simply impossible to make it differently. Has a good aesthetic appearance. This material is not whimsical in the choice of detergent. Resistant to moisture, temperature changes, not subject to the appearance of fungus.

Due to the fact that the tabletop is solid (it cannot be different) there are no seams in it, in which dirt accumulates. As well as an inexpensive price. This countertop will look harmonious in any bathroom.
This material is quite fragile and not easy to clean, as streaks often appear on the glass and any stains are noticeable.

Care

Stubborn dirt, such as fat, iodine, brilliant green, coffee, tea and others, must be washed out immediately.
Glass countertops can be easily cleaned with window or mirror products.
All wooden products are afraid of water. They must be wiped with a damp cloth and then wiped dry. Stubborn stains can be removed with baking soda. Sometimes it is worth impregnating with special means (so that the tree does not deteriorate).
It is enough to wipe the artificial stone with a damp and dry washcloth. It is advisable not to use detergents (such as soda, powder).
The marble countertop can be cleaned with a damp cloth and a little detergent. Do not use metal sponges. To remove heavy dirt, it is advisable to use a special detergent for marble.

Output!
The choice of countertop, wall or floor, material and everything else is an exclusively individual decision. But a person who does not like constant changes and wants to put it on for a long time should pay attention to the marble countertop.

And for those who have not decided what exactly they want and love constant changes, you can take a closer look at cheaper options such as drywall, glass, wood.

The washing machine is the most common household appliance found in almost every home. The issue of its placement is relevant. This is especially important when it comes to organizing a small space. Those who live in standard apartments go to various tricks so that the washing machine is placed as ergonomically as possible.

Types and designs: features

Which model and installation method you should opt for depends mainly on the size of the bathroom. The chosen washbasin with a countertop will determine the beauty of the room and its convenience.

Conventionally, countertops can be divided into two broad categories.

One-piece, where the sink and countertop are one piece. As a rule, the presented models are made of glass or natural stone. Its advantage is that there are no places in which harmful bacteria could accumulate and a fungus could form. As a disadvantage, it is worth highlighting that the presented attribute is expensive, especially when compared with other species.

A countertop that has a recessed sink. The presented type is much cheaper than the previous one, while it is quite simple to install. This design provides for the installation under it not only of a washing machine, but also of all kinds of drawers, shelves, and so on. The negative side of this modular countertop is that the seams near the sink are not protected. Moisture is likely to build up in this crevice and cause harmful bacteria to grow.

It is important to note that the bathroom countertop can be made in different versions.

It can be made from a variety of materials. When stopping your choice on one or another option, keep in mind that it is moisture resistant, otherwise the tabletop will soon become unusable.

Consider the most common materials for the manufacture of this product.

Natural or artificial stone. Such a tabletop will look luxurious and expensive. It is highly durable, can be cleaned with various chemicals, is characterized by durability and resistance to various types of external aggressors.
Wood, with which you can create a cozy and comfortable environment in the bathroom. Expensive wood is used here, which has a relatively short service life, so it is inappropriate to use a wooden countertop in the bathroom.

Glass, which is not very popular in Russia. To use a countertop like this, you need to have perfect pipes that look attractive. In addition, glass needs special care.
Particleboard and MDF, which can be used in bathroom furniture only with a special coating. However, it should be noted that if such a tabletop is damaged, it will further swell from an excess of moisture. Because of this, the product will soon become unusable.

Advantages and disadvantages

Those who have a washing machine under the tabletop note many of the advantages of such an arrangement.

The sink, complemented by a countertop, most ergonomically organizes the space above household appliances. On the resulting surface, you can place cosmetics, towels, hygiene products and various trifles.

The presence of the presented tabletop allows you to protect the washing machine from damage and various negative effects. Remember that placing heavy objects directly on top of household appliances damages its surface. The table top is able to handle the load perfectly. In addition, the washing machine will be protected from moisture and detergent.
The considered design solution allows you to decorate the bathroom in a single style. The table top can act as a connecting item for other interior details.

There are two main disadvantages of this design.

When a countertop is selected, it is matched to a specific model of household appliances. Based on the size and specifications of the washing machine. The best option is to choose a built-in machine that will harmonize in color and style with the furniture.
If your choice was stopped on a countertop made of artificial or natural stone, you should be prepared for high monetary costs. Other materials cost significantly less, but stone countertops look more impressive.

How to choose?

If you decide to opt for a sink with a countertop in the bathroom, then you must consider the variety of existing designs. To make the right choice, you need to consider several important aspects and certain recommendations.

It is necessary to pay attention to the material of manufacture. Manufacturers of such countertops use various raw materials to create the product in question. You should find out the advantages and disadvantages of the basic materials.

MDF is characterized by a rather low cost, however, it has various disadvantages. This material is characterized by low resistance to moisture, especially if its laminate coating has been damaged. It is worth noting the low strength, which is why such damage occurs quite often. As an advantage, it is worth highlighting the ability to implement the most original projects, and the ability to create a large number of storage boxes.

Acrylic characterized by excellent resistance to moisture. Products of a wide variety of colors are concentrated on the market, which is important for creating original interiors. This is one of the most affordable options where there is an excellent value for money. The appearance of such countertops is very attractive, while the material is not afraid of moisture and dampness. A definite advantage is the ability to manufacture tabletops according to individual sketches.

One of the most common materials for making sink countertops is fake diamond... Its main advantage is the presence of various textures and shades, excellent resistance to mechanical damage and the effects of various external aggressors, which can be detergents and cleaners. In this case, it is extremely important to choose the option that will be in perfect harmony with the rest of the decor in the bathroom.

A natural stone which is characterized by beautiful texture and excellent durability. This tabletop will serve for several decades, since the stone is distinguished by excellent wear resistance and does not change its original properties over the years. It is characterized by resistance to mold and mildew, which is extremely important in the bathroom. As disadvantages, only the high cost of this material and the rather large weight of the structure can be distinguished.

Depending on the available space, you can opt for one of the design options.

The washbasin is installed in a specially prepared recess. The sink in this case is large, so you must take into account the availability of such a place for it. Such an angular model can be combined, and it is quite possible to create it with your own hands.
A worktop with a built-in sink, which is equipped with a niche for a side bowl of a certain shape. This option provides for the presence of sealing joints so that moisture does not get there.

Overhead washbasins, which are in demand among designers. In this case, it is possible to purchase a device in the shape of a heart, an oval or a flower. This design looks very original and makes the interior more sophisticated.
There are models commercially available that can be wall-mounted. This option saves space.
Consoles consisting of a supporting frame. They are attached to the wall and floor. This option is suitable for any room, it is durable and safe. You can make such a structure yourself, using drywall or brick.
Floor countertops visually similar to a cabinet. They are equipped with various cabinets where you can store cleaning, hygiene and cosmetic products.

Requirements for the car

You should take into account that the equipment under the washbasin should be of a compact size. Manufacturers offer small devices that are characterized by a maximum load of up to 3 kg. Such models are usually no more than 70 cm high. Combining such a device with a sink, the tabletop will be at a level of 90 cm from the floor. In this case, you cannot stop the selection on a washing machine with a vertical lid, since such products are incompatible with the table top.

The place where the equipment will be installed must be equipped with the required communications.

Almost all washing machines sold today are white., however, today you can find household appliances that will be similar in color to the stove and washbasin. You do not have to opt for the same shade, but it should be in harmony with the overall interior in the bathroom. It is necessary to choose a washing machine at the same time as the countertop and the sink, or after their selection.

Installation

In this case, it is necessary to talk about installing a countertop, a sink and a washing machine. In this situation, they are interconnected with each other. You will need to think over the installation of all the 3 elements presented. If you make a mistake somewhere, this can lead to the fact that, for example, the washing machine simply cannot enter the opening prepared for it.

Quite often, people make a mistake in choosing a countertop, purchasing the model that does not fit your household appliances. You must consider various points before proceeding with the installation.

It is important to pay attention to some of the nuances:

Before purchasing and installing a countertop, sink and washing machine, you must definitely correlate the dimensions of all the listed elements. Please note that you must have a certain margin in order to accommodate the required communications.
Pay particular attention to the height of the washing machine. Many standard models are characterized by a rather large height, which will require you to raise the tabletop significantly. It is better to stop your choice on low washing machines, since a high tabletop will create some discomfort during use.