Bathroom cabinets play a crucial role in bathroom storage and organization. Located in the corner, these cabinets maximize space while providing plenty of storage solutions. Corner bathroom cabinets are a great way to utilize awkward empty corners that may otherwise go unused.
What are Corner Bathroom Cabinets?
Corner bathroom cabinets refer to any cabinetry installed in the corner of a bathroom. This allows you to take advantage of wasted space and create more storage.
Corner cabinets come in many different shapes, sizes, and configurations. The most popular options include:
- Triangle corner cabinets – With two sides meeting at a 90 degree angle in the corner. The front panel connects the two sides.
- Pie cut corner cabinets – Featuring a front panel cut at an angle less than 90 degrees to fit snugly into the corner.
- Lazy susan corner cabinets – A round shelving unit that spins within the cabinet, allowing easy access to items.
- Blind corner cabinets – Contain angled shelving or drawers that pivot out when opened.
Benefits of Corner Bathroom Cabinets
Installing corner bathroom cabinets offers many advantages:
- Maximize space – Corners often go unused, so corner cabinets allow you to take advantage of that wasted space.
- More storage – The unique shapes provide more storage capacity than a standard cabinet.
- Easy access – Lazy susans and pivoting drawers make items in the back of the cabinet accessible.
- Aesthetic appeal – Corner cabinets can add visual interest and dimension to the room.
- Versatility – Corner cabinets come in many configurations to suit your needs.
- Organization – The extra storage helps keep bathrooms decluttered.
Types of Corner Bathroom Cabinets
There are several common types of corner bathroom cabinets to choose from:
Triangle Corner Cabinets
The most common style, triangle cabinets have two sides forming a 90 degree angle to fit neatly into the corner. A front panel connects the two sides, creating a triangular shape. These offer simple and efficient corner storage.
Pie Cut Corner Cabinets
Pie cut cabinets feature sides angled at less than 90 degrees and a front panel precisely cut so the cabinet fits snugly into the corner. The pie cut shape maximizes every inch of the corner space.
Lazy Susan Corner Cabinets
A lazy susan consists of a round, rotating shelf inside the cabinet. You can spin the shelf to easily access items located towards the back. Lazy susans make corner cabinets highly functional.
Blind Corner Cabinets
Blind corner cabinets contain angled shelving or drawers attached to pivoting hardware. When you open the door, the shelving swings out, providing access to storage space hidden in the corner.
Diagonal Corner Cabinets
With diagonal corner cabinets, the cabinet runs diagonally from the corner rather than meeting it at a 90 degree angle. The diagonal shape adds architectural interest to the bathroom.
Corner Bathroom Vanities
In addition to cabinets, consider installing a corner vanity to maximize your bathroom’s functionality. Corner vanities allow two people to use the sink and get ready at the same time.
When choosing a corner vanity, look for:
- Generous counter space and storage
- Easy access to plumbing
- Ability to accommodate two sinks
- Drawers and cabinets
- Matching mirror and lighting
A corner vanity can make an unused corner into a functional focal point in your bathroom.
Corner Cabinet Design Considerations
Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing corner bathroom cabinets:
- Bathroom size and layout – Make sure the corner cabinet you select will fit well within the dimensions and existing fixtures of the space. Measure carefully.
- Usage – How will you use the cabinet? Lots of toiletries? Towel storage? Medicine? Let your needs guide your design.
- Access – Lazy susans or pivoting shelves allow easy access without the hassle of reaching into a tight corner.
- Plumbing – Avoid interfering with any plumbing lines already running through the corner.
- Door clearance – Ensure other doors like shower doors will be able to fully open without hitting the corner cabinet.
- Weight – If using the cabinet for heavy items like rolled towels, make sure to select a sturdy cabinet.
- Counter space – If the corner location is needed for counter space, choose a design that incorporates this.
Corner Cabinet Storage Solutions
Corner cabinets offer many smart storage solutions for bathrooms. Here are some ideas of what to store:
Bathroom Linens
The extra space is perfect for neatly folding and organizing towels, washcloths, bathmats, and hand towels. Add shelves, bins or baskets.
Toilet Paper
Store toilet paper rolls and extra multi-packs in a corner cabinet fitted with shelving. Or utilize a vertical holder.
Hair Appliances
Corner cabinets often have electrical outlets, ideal for keeping hair dryers, curling irons, straighteners, etc. concealed but easily accessible.
Cleaning Supplies
Keep spray bottles, cleaning wipes, sponges, and other supplies organized in a corner cabinet, away from the counters but close at hand.
Medicine
Corner cabinets make excellent medicine cabinets, with mirrors and shelves to store medical supplies and personal items out of sight.
Bathroom Basics
Soaps, lotions, razors, toothbrushes, deodorants and other daily use bathroom items can be neatly arranged in corner cabinet storage.
Choosing the Best Corner Cabinets
With many options on the market, keep these tips in mind when selecting corner bathroom cabinets:
- Optimize storage with lazy susans, angled shelves, or other space-saving designs.
- Make sure the cabinet height fits the space appropriately.
- Choose moisture-resistant materials like wood composites if installing near showers.
- Select soft-close doors and drawers for convenience.
- Look for corner cabinets offering flexibility to store a variety of bathroom items.
- Choose an attractive style that enhances your bathroom’s decor.
- Determine if you need pull-out shelves, adjustable shelves, interior lighting, or other functional features.
- Measure carefully to find a corner cabinet with optimal dimensions for your bathroom’s layout.
Corner Cabinet Installation
Installing a corner cabinet is best left to professionals. However, if you plan to DIY:
- Review installation instructions carefully. Improper installation can lead to accidents or damage.
- Assemble the cabinet according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Have an assistant help position and secure the cabinet into the corner. This can be an awkward, two-person job.
- Use a level to ensure the cabinet is evenly vertical and horizontal so doors align properly.
- Attach to wall studs using screws. Ensure it is secure and will not pull away.
- Use trim molding to cover any gaps and provide a seamless, built-in look.
- Seal edges with waterproof caulk to prevent moisture damage.
Style Ideas for Corner Cabinets
Corner cabinets come in an array of styles to match any bathroom decor, such as:
Farmhouse Corner Cabinets
The quintessential farmhouse look utilizes unfinished wood cabinets with visible rustic details like exposed hinges. Go for an antique white, distressed finish. Add vintage-style hardware and wood shelving.
Modern Corner Cabinets
For contemporary style, choose corner cabinets with clean, straight lines and simple panel detailing. Opt for a glossy white or gray tone. Use sleek chrome or nickel hardware and lighting.
Transitional Corner Cabinets
Transitional design blends traditional and modern elements. Select corner cabinets with streamlined Shaker-style doors paired with vintage bronze hardware and accent trim for a perfect mix.
Rustic Corner Cabinets
Create a rustic cabin vibe with natural wood corner cabinets left unfinished or lightly stained. Opt for visible wood grains and hardware with an unrefined, raw metal look.
Bold Colored Corner Cabinets
Make a vibrant style statement with bold colored corner cabinets in any tone like navy blue, emerald green or rich yellow. Use gloss finishes and ornate hardware.
Ideal Corner Cabinet Dimensions
When selecting your corner cabinet, pay close attention to the measurements to achieve the perfect fit:
- Height – Standard is 30-36 inches, but adjustable to suit your needs. Measure from the floor to below the ceiling.
- Width – The two sides forming the corner should each be 12-24 inches wide.
- Depth – Standard depth is 12-16 inches, but deeper cabinets around 20 inches provide ample storage.
- Angles – Pie cut corners are typically 35-37 degree angles.Triangle corners meet at 90 degree angles.
- Shelves – Adjustable shelves at various heights accommodate different items.
Be sure to measure your exact corner space carefully before choosing a corner cabinet size. Account for baseboards, trim, plumbing lines, etc. that may impact the measurements.
Corner Cabinet Finishes
Corner cabinets are available in a variety of finishes to coordinate with your bathroom’s decor:
Laminate
Laminate corner cabinets are affordable, durable, and low maintenance. The laminate surface resists scratches, stains, and moisture. Many realistic woodgrain patterns available.
Wood
Natural wood cabinets provide a timeless, traditional look. Oak, maple, and cherry are common choices. Be aware moisture can damage real wood over time.
Thermofoil
A durable melamine coating gives thermofoil cabinets a stylish, uniform finish that mimics woodgrain or glossy lacquered looks at an affordable cost.
Painted
For a custom look, choose unfinished corner cabinets and paint them yourself in any color and sheen using cabinet-grade paint. Add painted accents.
Stained
Apply stain to unfinished wood cabinets to create an upscale, sophisticated look. Use layered stains to produce deeper tones. Seal with polyurethane.
Corner Bathroom Cabinet Ideas
Corner cabinets provide excellent opportunities to get creative with your bathroom storage and design. Some ideas include:
- For a built-in look, extend the countertop across the corner cabinet for a seamless finish.
- Install open corner shelving above a cabinet to display decorative bath accessories.
- Opt for a corner sink base with a matching corner wall cabinet above for a unified look.
- Incorporate polished hardware like knobs or pulls that complement your faucets and fixtures.
- Use trim molding at the top of a corner cabinet to elevate the design.
- Divide storage with vertical partitions and compartments or glass shelving.
- Install interior lighting inside the cabinet to illuminate the contents.
- Make the corner cabinet a focal point by selecting a dark dramatic color or unique finished wood.
Corner Bathroom Cabinet FAQs
What are the benefits of a corner bathroom cabinet?
Corner cabinets maximize unused space, provide efficient storage, and add aesthetic appeal. The unique shapes make the most of an awkward area.
What should you store in a corner bathroom cabinet?
Great for linens, toiletries, bath accessories, cleaning items, and medicine storage. The cabinets keep necessities accessible but out of sight.
What are some different types of corner cabinets?
Common styles include triangle, pie cut, lazy susan, blind corner, and diagonal cabinets. Consider tradeoffs of accessibility, space and design.
How do you determine the optimal size for a corner cabinet?
Carefully measure the empty corner space from floor to ceiling. Account for any fixtures. Standard width is 12-24 inches per side, depth 12-16 inches.
How can you install a corner cabinet DIY?
Assemble per manufacturer instructions. Use a level to ensure it is even. Attach securely to studs with screws. Caulk edges and use trim for a built-in look. Get help positioning.
What are some popular corner cabinet design styles?
Try farmhouse, modern, transitional, rustic or bold painted cabinets. Mix finishes, hardware and decor to create your desired aesthetic.
Conclusion
Strategically installing corner bathroom cabinets allows you to transform wasted space into functional storage that both declutters and adds style to the room. With many configuration options, finding the right corner cabinet design and size for your space can maximize functionality and aesthetic appeal. Pay close attention to accessibility, dimensions and finishes to select the ideal corner cabinet storage solutions for your unique needs.
