The other day, Roger and I were talking about our new home build, and I brought up the ensuite bathroom. “We need to figure out the design for the vanity soon,” I said. Roger, always practical, suggested, “Why not go with a pre-built one?”

Honestly? My first reaction was, “Absolutely not.” I’ve been dreaming about a serene, timeless bathroom—something with character and classic details. I want a painted white built-in vanity with lots of drawers (because, let’s face it, drawers make life so much easier), double sinks, beautiful framed mirrors, and gorgeous sconces. Add some patterned hexagon tiles on the floor and white subway tiles in the shower, and you’ve got my vision. So, a pre-built vanity felt completely out of place in that picture.

But then I thought, “Okay, let’s see what’s out there.” And what I found surprised me. Pre-built vanities have come a long way. The Klayr line at Home Hardware, for example, isn’t just practical—it’s beautiful. They’re available in lovely finishes like sage green and powder blue, and many come with stone or solid surface tops that feel high-end. Suddenly, the idea of a pre-built vanity didn’t seem so bad.

So, let’s break it down:

What are the PROS and CONS of custom-built vs. pre-built vanities? If you’re stuck deciding, this might help.

Custom-Built Vanities

Pros:

• Tailored to Your Space: Custom-built vanities are designed to fit your bathroom’s exact dimensions and layout.

• One-of-a-Kind: You choose every detail, from the paint colour to the hardware.

• Adds Value: A custom vanity can elevate the look of your bathroom and add to your home’s resale value.

Cons:

• Higher Cost: Custom vanities can be significantly more expensive.

• Takes Time: Designing and building takes longer, which can delay your project.

• Decision Overload: Picking materials, finishes, and designs can feel overwhelming.

Pre-Built Vanities

Pros:

• Convenience: Pre-built vanities are ready to go—no waiting required.

• Budget-Friendly: They’re often much more affordable than custom options.

• Stylish Options: Modern pre-built vanities come in stunning finishes and often include stone or solid surface tops for a polished look.

Cons:

• Limited Sizes: Pre-built vanities are made to standard dimensions, so they may not fit perfectly in your space.

• Less Customization: You’re limited to the styles and colours available.

• May Require Setup: Some assembly or installation might be needed.

Why I’m Loving the “Klayr” Vanity Line:

After doing some research, I have to say, the pre-built vanities from Home Hardware’s Klayr line are seriously impressive. The sage green double vanity with a Calacatta quartz top has completely won me over. It’s the perfect mix of classic and fresh, and paired with gold-framed mirrors and elegant sconces, it could easily achieve the timeless look I want.

Of course, I couldn’t resist creating a mood board to bring the idea to life. I pulled together this vanity, some gorgeous light fixtures, and matching mirrors—all from Home Hardware—to show how you can achieve a cohesive, high-end look without going custom.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose custom or pre-built, the most important thing is that your vanity works for your space, your budget, and your vision. While I’m still weighing my options for our ensuite, I’m no longer ruling out pre-built vanities. They’ve come a long way, and the Klayr line proves you don’t have to compromise on style.

If you’re curious about these vanities or need some inspiration, stop by your local Home Hardware or browse online. And keep an eye out for the mood board and Instagram Reel I’ll be sharing soon—you might just fall in love with a pre-built vanity too!