Complete Vanity Units vs. Modular Cabinets: Is the Price Difference Worth It?

JadeHighland

In a couple of months, I’m having my bathroom ripped out and redone. I’ll be doing quite a bit myself, but leaving the electrics and pipework rearrangement to the professionals.

What I’m stressing about is the unit that will run along one wall — it’s 164cm across, and I still haven’t figured out the best way to fill the space.

I’ve seen complete vanity units for well under £1,000 that include everything, but when I look at more modular/fitted options, just the cabinets alone can exceed £1,000. For example, Wickes quoted £1,600 for cabinets, toilet, and basin — and it’s not even custom-fitted. The shelf is open and needs to be cut to size ourselves.

I feel like I’m missing something. Is £1,600 for furniture, toilet, and sink a reasonable price? Or am I overthinking this?

Here’s an example of a complete unit I found:

https://www.plumbworld.co.uk/artis-grey-gloss-toilet-basin-vanity-unit-combination-with-doors-shelves-1720mm-17940-1275382

Doozergirl

That's still modular, they've just packaged it as a product.  If you wanted to buy that and leave a unit out, then you probably could.  

The price will be almost always be down to the quality of the product.  Of course there are going to be different price points.  I wouldn't expect anything to be custom fitted for £1600.  

I have warned people in the past about buying cheap and paying dear - you do need some level of quality around water if you don't want to end up replacing things.  On units, I'd be looking for minimal joins in the lamination of the units to minimise the chance of water getting in and blowing the chipboard, for example.  

JadeHighland

Doozergirl said:

That's still modular, they've just packaged it as a product.  If you wanted to buy that and leave a unit out, then you probably could.  

The price will be almost always be down to the quality of the product.  Of course there are going to be different price points.  I wouldn't expect anything to be custom fitted for £1600.  

I have warned people in the past about buying cheap and paying dear - you do need some level of quality around water if you don't want to end up replacing things.  On units, I'd be looking for minimal joins in the lamination of the units to minimise the chance of water getting in and blowing the chipboard, for example.  

Thanks again. Where would you recommend for furniture? Or what brand?

I can't afford anything super-high end, but around 2,000 would be within what I would be willing to pay if it's good quality stuff. 

Doozergirl

There's nothing wrong with Wickes, and you can't go wrong with Howdens.  

My own unit is an expensive wood one but I got it ex display for a lot less than retail.  I love ex display!