Stylish and Functional Medicine Cabinet Ideas
A medicine cabinet is an essential part of any bathroom, providing storage for toiletries, medications, and other bathroom essentials. However, a medicine cabinet doesn’t have to be just functional; it can also be a stylish addition to your bathroom decor. By choosing a medicine cabinet that complements your existing bathroom style, you can create a cohesive and stylish space.
Design Considerations for Stylish Medicine Cabinets
When choosing a medicine cabinet, it’s important to consider the design elements that will complement your bathroom decor. Sleek finishes, modern hardware, and integrated lighting can all enhance the look of your medicine cabinet.
- Sleek Finishes: Choose a medicine cabinet with a finish that complements the other fixtures in your bathroom. For example, if you have brushed nickel faucets, consider a medicine cabinet with a brushed nickel finish. Other popular finishes include chrome, stainless steel, and matte black.
- Modern Hardware: Modern hardware, such as sleek handles or knobs, can add a touch of sophistication to your medicine cabinet. Look for hardware that complements the style of your bathroom fixtures.
- Integrated Lighting: Integrated lighting can provide a functional and stylish touch to your medicine cabinet. LED lighting is a popular choice for medicine cabinets, as it is energy-efficient and provides bright, even illumination.
Medicine Cabinets with Unique Features
Modern medicine cabinets offer a range of unique features that can enhance both their functionality and style. Here are a few examples:
- Built-in Organizers: Some medicine cabinets feature built-in organizers, such as shelves, drawers, and compartments, to help you keep your toiletries and medications organized. These organizers can make it easier to find what you need and keep your medicine cabinet tidy.
- Compartments for Toiletries: Some medicine cabinets have dedicated compartments for toiletries, such as toothbrush holders, toothpaste dispensers, and cotton swab containers. These compartments can help you keep your toiletries organized and within easy reach.
- Integrated Mirrors: Many medicine cabinets feature integrated mirrors, which can provide a convenient and stylish way to add a mirror to your bathroom. Some medicine cabinets even feature magnifying mirrors, which can be helpful for applying makeup or shaving.
Installation Options for Medicine Cabinets
Medicine cabinets can be installed in a variety of ways, each with its own pros and cons. Here are some of the most common installation options:
- Wall-Mounted Medicine Cabinets: Wall-mounted medicine cabinets are the most common type of medicine cabinet. They are easy to install and can be placed anywhere on the wall. The main disadvantage of wall-mounted medicine cabinets is that they can take up valuable wall space.
- Recessed Medicine Cabinets: Recessed medicine cabinets are installed into the wall, creating a seamless and integrated look. They are a great option for maximizing space in smaller bathrooms. However, recessed medicine cabinets can be more expensive to install and may require some structural modifications to the wall.
- Over-the-Sink Medicine Cabinets: Over-the-sink medicine cabinets are installed above the bathroom sink, providing convenient access to toiletries and medications. They can be a good option for small bathrooms where space is limited. However, over-the-sink medicine cabinets may not be suitable for all sink styles.
DIY Medicine Cabinet Projects: Small Bathroom Medicine Cabinet Ideas
So, you’re after a new medicine cabinet but don’t fancy shelling out the big bucks? Well, get your tools out and let’s get crafty! Building your own medicine cabinet is a great way to save some dosh and add a personal touch to your bathroom. Plus, you’ll have a real sense of achievement when you’re done.
Building a Custom Medicine Cabinet, Small bathroom medicine cabinet ideas
Building a custom medicine cabinet from scratch is a bit of a challenge, but totally doable. You’ll need to think about the size and style you want, and then gather the right materials and tools.
Materials
- Plywood or MDF: This will form the base of your cabinet. Choose a thickness that’s sturdy enough to hold your stuff.
- Wood trim: This will be used to create the frame and add a decorative touch. You can get fancy with different types of wood trim.
- Hinges: You’ll need hinges to attach the door to the cabinet. Choose hinges that are strong enough for the weight of the door.
- Door handle: Pick a handle that suits your style and is easy to grip.
- Paint or stain: This will give your cabinet a final touch and protect the wood.
- Shelves: You’ll need shelves to store your stuff. You can use pre-made shelves or cut them from plywood.
Tools
- Saw: You’ll need a saw to cut the plywood and trim. A circular saw or a jigsaw will do the trick.
- Drill: You’ll need a drill to make holes for the hinges, handle, and shelves.
- Screwdriver: This is for attaching the hinges, handle, and shelves.
- Measuring tape: You’ll need this to measure the size of your cabinet and cut the materials accurately.
- Level: This will ensure your cabinet is straight and level when you install it.
- Sandpaper: This is for smoothing out any rough edges.
- Safety glasses: Always wear safety glasses when working with power tools.
Steps
- Measure and cut the plywood. Measure the space where you want to install the cabinet and cut the plywood to size.
- Cut the wood trim. Cut the wood trim to create the frame of the cabinet.
- Assemble the frame. Attach the wood trim to the plywood using wood glue and screws.
- Add shelves. Measure and cut shelves from plywood or use pre-made shelves. Attach them to the inside of the cabinet.
- Attach the door. Cut the door from plywood and attach hinges to the door and the cabinet frame.
- Install the handle. Drill a hole for the handle and attach it to the door.
- Paint or stain the cabinet. Choose your preferred finish and paint or stain the cabinet. Make sure to apply a few coats for a good finish.
- Install the cabinet. Once the cabinet is dry, you can install it on the wall. Use a level to ensure it’s straight.
Repurposed Medicine Cabinet Projects
Instead of buying new materials, why not get creative and use what you already have lying around? You can give old items a new lease of life and make a unique medicine cabinet.
Repurposed Items
- Old drawers: An old dresser drawer can be transformed into a medicine cabinet. Just attach some hinges and a door handle, and you’re good to go.
- Wooden crates: Wooden crates can be given a fresh coat of paint and turned into a charming medicine cabinet. You can even add some decorative elements like handles or hinges.
- Old window frames: If you’ve got an old window frame lying around, you can turn it into a rustic medicine cabinet. Just attach some plywood to the back and add a door.
Tips for Finishing and Decorating
- Paint: You can use any color you like to paint your medicine cabinet. You can even use stencils to create a unique design.
- Stain: If you want a more natural look, you can stain your medicine cabinet. Choose a stain that complements the wood you used.
- Decorative accents: Add some decorative accents to your medicine cabinet to make it stand out. You can use things like knobs, handles, or even wallpaper.
