When undertaking a bathroom renovation, one of the first questions people need to ask themselves is how they’re going to make the room work for them. The answer will often depend on the fixtures you choose. Basins, in particular, are more important than people give them credit for. They determine flow, dictate storage, and set the style.
The pedestal basin and wall-mounted basin have long been two of the most popular choices. The former is all about timeless elegance, providing a sculptural element in a bathroom. The latter keeps the floor space clear, making a room look and feel more open, and it has a sleek, contemporary appeal. They’re both great options, but which is right for you will depend on factors other than just style.
In this comparison, we’re going to look at the pros and cons of each type of basin against one another. We’ll cover practicality, cost, and design to help you determine which one is best for your bathroom.
Let’s get into it.
Understanding Pedestal Basins
Concrete pedestal basins have a very distinct and identifiable look. The style is one of the most iconic in bathroom fixtures, with a design that has been popular for decades, if not generations. They are so common in bathrooms because they offer both form and function, in a design that’s classic, yet versatile.
Pedestal basins are different to vanity units or any other cabinetry, in that it is the shape of the basin which is the key design feature. It’s the column that creates symmetry and grandeur, which is why pedestal basins are still a go-to for period homes, as well as contemporary homes with traditional influences.
If you like basins that are striking and make a statement but not fussy or overly grandiose, then the pedestal style is often the starting point.
Key Features of Pedestal Basins
A pedestal basin consists of a simple bowl balanced on a tall, slender column. This column isn't just for decoration though, it also serves to hide all the pipework, keeping your bathroom looking neat and tidy. The fact the basin is supported by the pedestal also means it sits directly on the floor, and so requires no heavy-duty wall fixings.
You'll see them in a range of sizes too, with compact shapes that are great for smaller bathrooms, and more decorative designs to act as a feature.
Pros & Cons of Pedestal Basins
One of the biggest benefits of the pedestal basin is its classic style. That column-and-bowl look is so good that it transcends bathroom design and rarely dates. Pedestal basins also go with just about any colour trend, so you can paint, tile and accessorise around it over the years. The form itself won’t go out of fashion and make you feel the need to replace it.
They’re also more versatile than you might think, equally at home in a small powder room as they are in a spacious family bathroom. And on a practical note, installation is usually simpler than it is with wall-mounted basins, because the entire unit sits on the floor rather than being wholly attached to the wall.
That said, there are some downsides. There’s no storage, so you need to factor that in elsewhere with cupboards or shelves. Nor do pedestal basins provide any counter space, which can be annoying if you like to keep things handy.
The pedestal can also dominate the room visually, especially in smaller bathrooms, where a wall-hung basin without legs might be more slimline. And they’re not the most practical choice for accessibility purposes, because the column obstructs the open space underneath.
Exploring Wall-Mounted Basins
Wall-mounted basins are becoming an increasingly popular fixture for modern bathrooms. Their simple design gives the bathroom a clean, minimalist feel. As they are mounted directly to the wall, the floor beneath is left open. This openness creates a lighter feel that works especially well in smaller bathrooms.
Wall basins also provide a greater degree of flexibility for bathroom design. The open space beneath allows you to arrange storage and other fixtures as you see fit. Cabinets, shelves and baskets can be placed underneath to provide storage.
Cleaning the bathroom floor is also a breeze with a wall-mounted basin. A perfect choice for those looking to create a bathroom with a sleek, modern look.
Key Features of Wall-Mounted Basins
Wall-mounted basins are a space-saving solution in terms of both aesthetics and installation. Their defining feature is that they’re fitted to the wall, with no support on the floor below. This means you can use the space underneath freely, while the basin itself gives the room an open, spacious look. Their versatile, unencumbered design makes them ideal for sustainable bathroom transformations, when every centimetre of space is at a premium.
Available in all shapes and sizes, wall-mounted basins can be as compact as your powder room demands, or wide and splashy to make a statement in a spacious bathroom. As there’s no height restriction from a supporting pedestal, you can easily adjust wall-mounted basins to suit adults and children.
You do need to ensure there are secure fixings to the wall, but once in place the overall effect is sleek and minimalist, ideal for modern and contemporary bathrooms.
Pros & Cons of Wall-Mounted Basins
The main benefits of a wall-mounted basin are its sleek, contemporary look and that it opens up a lot of space on the bathroom floor. This makes the whole room look bigger and is great for small bathrooms or for people who prefer a minimalist look.
They’re also very flexible in terms of storage – you can pair them with a wall-mounted slimline cabinet or a basket to one side, or go for a really minimalist approach and leave it bare. Wall-mounted basins can also be fitted at a higher or lower level than other types of basin to make it more comfortable for kids or the adults in the household.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider as well. A wall-mounted basin will need to be secured to the wall with very strong fixings, so installation is a little more complicated than a pedestal basin. They also don’t have as much stability on their own, and many users feel like a pedestal or vanity provides a more solid feel. Like pedestal basins, they don’t offer much counter space, so you’ll need to factor in some other storage for toiletries and the like.
Comparing Pedestal and Wall-Mounted Basins
For anyone planning a bathroom makeover, both options can work beautifully without requiring a full renovation. A pedestal basin can refresh a space quickly with minimal disruption, while a wall-mounted basin can create a modern update and clever use of space without extensive structural changes. The key is matching the basin style to your room layout, storage needs, and personal taste.
Choosing the Right Basin for Your Bathroom
When you have selected your perfect basin, it’s the finishing details that really help to complete your bathroom suite. Consider the style of your taps, mirror and lighting – a change in these can often create a dramatic difference to the overall look and feel. Mirrors can make your bathroom feel more spacious and layered lighting means you can keep the room looking light and inviting.
Accessorising is another opportunity to express your style – sleek shelving or a neat basket or low storage unit nearby are all practical solutions for everyday essentials without cluttering your space. Don’t be afraid to introduce colour with your towels, either for a pop of colour, a luxurious texture or a complementary pattern.
A few well-thought-out details can also help to create a space that is attractive and inviting. Add a plant, stylish soap dish or a subtle scent to make your basin feel considered and complete. Layering these details around a pedestal or wall-mounted basin means you can enjoy an area that is both practical and a pleasure to use – a place you actually want to start and end your day.
