"I've installed recessed shelves between wall studs for a few clients—works great if you're comfortable with minor drywall work."
Recessed shelves sound cool, but how much actual storage do you get out of them? I've seen some that barely fit a couple bottles or towels, and I'm not sure it'd be worth the drywall hassle. Also, does anyone find floating shelves above the toilet awkward to reach? Seems like it might be tricky grabbing stuff without knocking something down...
Recessed shelves can be handy if you're tight on space, but yeah, they're usually pretty shallow—good for toiletries or small stuff, not bulky towels. Floating shelves above the toilet always felt awkward to me too...like one wrong move and your toothbrush goes swimming.
We swapped to a pedestal sink last year and honestly, I love the look, but storage became a headache real quick. Ended up getting one of those slim rolling carts for towels and stuff—works okay, but definitely miss having cabinet space sometimes...
Pedestal sinks definitely have their charm, but from a practical standpoint, they can be tricky. If you're set on the look, consider wall-mounted shelving or recessed niches—I've installed a few of those for clients, and they really help reclaim some lost storage without cluttering the floor. Another option is a mirrored medicine cabinet with built-in shelves; it doubles as storage and hides toiletries nicely. Just make sure your wall framing can support it—seen some DIY disasters there...
"Just make sure your wall framing can support it—seen some DIY disasters there..."
Couldn't agree more on this point. I've had tenants who loved the aesthetic of pedestal sinks, but storage quickly became a headache. Wall-mounted shelves or recessed niches are indeed practical solutions, but another thing to consider is plumbing access. Pedestal sinks often have exposed plumbing, which can be both a blessing and a curse—easy access for repairs, but also more visible wear and tear over time.
One workaround I've found helpful is installing decorative pipe covers or sleeves; they keep things tidy without sacrificing accessibility. Also, if you're considering recessed niches, double-check what's behind your walls first—I've encountered unexpected wiring and pipes that complicated the job significantly. A quick check beforehand can save you from costly surprises down the road.
