Floating Cabinets

Floating Cabinets

October 22, 2020


Recent trends in modern home design have seen a surge in the popularity of floating vanities and cabinets, especially in bathrooms. This design approach is characterized by suspended storage units that create a sleek, contemporary look while optimizing space utilization.

Renowned author Richard Lederer once wisely remarked, "Never pretend to be something you’re not." This quote, when applied to design, underscores the importance of authenticity and structural integrity. Floating cabinets and vanities embody this principle, offering a minimalist aesthetic that exudes sophistication. However, it's essential to acknowledge their functional limitations compared to traditional grounded counterparts.

In drawing parallels to floating upper cabinets commonly found in kitchen designs, it's crucial to note the distinctions in support mechanisms for bathroom vanities. Bathroom vanities have to support heavier loads like marble or concrete sinks and countertops, unlike kitchen cabinets. Consequently, ensuring stability and load capacity becomes paramount in both the design and installation phases.

A notable example illustrating this concern is the mounting hold developed by Corbin Dunn. This innovation prioritizes strength and stability, addressing the challenges associated with floated cabinets and vanities. This ensures that these design elements are both stylish and functional, improving the overall usability of the space.

Steel support beams inside wall studs for Floating Cabinets

Everyday floated cabinets

Consider the scenario of storing dishes in upper cabinets versus on a countertop. While the countertop effortlessly bears the weight, distributing dishes in cabinets necessitates a sturdy support system to withstand the dispersed load. This underscores the necessity of engineering floating cabinets with robust mounting systems, such as steel brackets securely anchored between studs. Moreover, incorporating rust-resistant materials enhances the longevity of the installation, safeguarding against structural compromise over time. Notably, Bat City Builders, a design-build company based in Austin, Texas, employs these floating cabinets in their innovative projects, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.

As the trend of floating vanities and cabinets continues to captivate homeowners seeking modern elegance, prioritizing quality craftsmanship and reliable engineering remains paramount for a timeless and functional living space.

Floating Cabinets being mounted on steel support beams

Check out this strong mounting system created by Corbin Dunn.

Photos copyrighted by Corbin Dunn and used with permission.