Interesting to hear these experiences, since we're thinking about switching to a pedestal sink too. I really like how open they make the space feel, but storage is definitely a concern. Right now we have a vanity with drawers, and they're always packed with random bathroom stuff... so I'm wondering where all that would go.
Did anyone find creative ways to store essentials like hair dryers or cleaning supplies without cluttering things up? Or maybe there's some kind of compromise solution—like a pedestal sink with built-in storage or something? Curious if something like that even exists.
We switched to a pedestal sink about two years ago, and honestly, storage was my biggest hesitation too. I loved the clean, open look, but I knew we'd miss those drawers. What we ended up doing was installing a slim wall-mounted cabinet above the toilet—nothing bulky, just enough space for essentials like toothpaste, skincare stuff, and extra toilet paper. For hair dryers and larger items, we got a small rolling cart that fits neatly in the corner. It's not perfect, but it does the job without cluttering things up too much.
One thing I learned pretty quickly: pedestal sinks with built-in storage are kind of rare and usually don't offer much space anyway. We looked into them briefly, but most seemed to defeat the purpose of having that open feel. Instead, you might consider a small floating shelf or two near the sink for everyday items like soap or toothbrush holders. It keeps things handy without taking away from the openness.
Also, if you're handy or know someone who is, you could build a recessed cabinet into the wall between studs. My brother did this in his bathroom renovation—it looks super sleek and holds way more than you'd think. It takes a bit more effort upfront, but it's a great compromise between style and practicality.
I guess it really comes down to how much stuff you actually need daily versus what can be stored elsewhere. We ended up decluttering quite a bit when we made the switch, which honestly felt pretty good. But yeah, if you're used to having lots of drawers packed with random stuff (like we were), it might take some adjusting.
Has anyone else tried recessed storage or found other clever ways to stash bathroom essentials without sacrificing style?
"Also, if you're handy or know someone who is, you could build a recessed cabinet into the wall between studs."
We did exactly this when we switched to a pedestal sink, and honestly, it's been a lifesaver. It keeps things tidy without sacrificing that open feel. Another thing we found helpful was using woven baskets on open shelves—looks nice and hides clutter. Plus, it's eco-friendly if you go for natural materials like bamboo or seagrass. Worth considering if you're into sustainable options.
The recessed cabinet idea is definitely a good one—seen it work wonders in plenty of bathrooms. Just a quick heads-up though, before you dive in: double-check what's behind your wall first. I've had clients get excited about the recessed cabinet thing only to find plumbing or electrical wires running right where they wanted to put it. It's usually not a big deal to adjust things a bit, but it can add some unexpected hassle.
Also, totally agree on woven baskets or bins. They look great, and it's nice being able to just toss stuff in quickly when you're tidying up. If moisture is a concern (like it often is in bathrooms), just make sure they're well-ventilated and easy to clean. Bamboo handles humidity pretty well, but some other natural materials can get moldy if they're constantly damp...just something to keep an eye on. Overall though, sounds like you've got a solid plan going!
Pedestal sinks can look sleek and elegant, no doubt about it, but honestly, I'd think twice before ditching a vanity altogether. I've seen plenty of homeowners regret losing that storage space later on. Sure, woven baskets and recessed cabinets can help, but they're not always enough—especially if you've got a busy household or limited bathroom space.
The recessed cabinet idea is solid in theory, but as mentioned earlier, you really need to know what's behind your walls first. I've had to reroute plumbing lines more times than I can count because someone underestimated how much hassle it would be to install a recessed cabinet. It's doable, sure, but it can quickly turn into a bigger project than anticipated. And if you're already tight on budget or timeline, that's something to seriously consider.
Also, woven baskets might look nice and tidy at first, but from my experience, they tend to become clutter magnets pretty quickly. Moisture isn't the only issue—dust and grime build up surprisingly fast in bathrooms. Even bamboo baskets, which handle humidity better than most materials, still need regular cleaning and airing out. If you're not the type who enjoys frequent upkeep (and let's face it, most of us aren't), you might find yourself frustrated down the line.
If you're set on the pedestal sink for aesthetic reasons, maybe consider pairing it with a slimline wall-mounted cabinet or shelves instead of relying solely on baskets or recessed storage. Open shelving can look great if you're disciplined about keeping things neat, and closed cabinets offer practical storage without sacrificing too much floor space.
Just my two cents based on what I've seen over the years—sometimes practicality beats aesthetics in the long run.
