Column Units

What Are Bathroom Column Units?

Bathroom column units are tall, slender cabinets that provide vertical storage in your bathroom. They typically stand between 140cm and 200cm high, with widths ranging from 30cm to 60cm. These units come in two main types: freestanding and wall-mounted.

Freestanding column units sit directly on the floor and can be moved around if needed. They're great for renters or those who like to change their bathroom layout occasionally. Wall-mounted units, on the other hand, are fixed to the wall, saving even more floor space and creating a sleek, floating look.

Most column units feature a combination of open shelves and closed cabinets. This mix allows you to display decorative items or frequently used toiletries on the open shelves while keeping less attractive items hidden behind cabinet doors. Some units also include drawers for smaller items like makeup or medicines.

Column units come in a wide range of materials and finishes, from classic white gloss to modern wood effects. This variety means you can easily find a unit that matches your bathroom's style, whether it's contemporary, traditional, or somewhere in between.

Benefits of Installing a Bathroom Column Unit

Adding a column unit to your bathroom comes with several advantages. First and foremost, it's a space-saver. In small bathrooms, every centimetre counts, and a column unit makes use of vertical space that might otherwise go to waste. This means you can store more without cramping your bathroom's style or making it feel cluttered.

Organisation is another key benefit. With multiple shelves and compartments, column units give you a dedicated spot for all your bathroom essentials. No more rummaging through drawers or cabinets to find what you need. You can keep towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and even spare loo rolls neatly arranged and easily accessible.

Column units can also boost your bathroom's looks. A well-chosen unit can serve as a stylish focal point, adding character to your space. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern design or something more traditional, there's a column unit out there to suit your taste.

Lastly, these units are versatile. Many come with adjustable shelves, allowing you to customise the storage to fit your needs. And if you opt for a freestanding unit, you can easily move it around as your storage needs change.

Choosing the Right Column Unit for Your Bathroom

Picking the perfect column unit involves considering a few key factors. First, measure your space carefully. You'll need to know not just the height and width of the area where you plan to put the unit, but also the depth. Remember to account for any obstacles like radiators or windows.

Next, think about your storage needs. How much stuff do you need to store? Do you prefer open shelves for easy access or closed cabinets to hide clutter? A mix of both might be ideal. Also consider whether you need specific features like a built-in laundry basket or a mirrored door.

The unit's material and finish are important too. For a bathroom, you'll want something that can stand up to moisture. Melamine-faced chipboard is a popular, affordable option that's water-resistant. For a more luxurious feel, solid wood or painted MDF units are available, but make sure they're properly sealed.

Style-wise, try to match your column unit with your existing bathroom decor. If you have a modern bathroom with clean lines, a sleek, handleless unit might fit best. For a more traditional look, units with panelled doors and classic hardware could be the way to go.

Don't forget about practicality. If you're short on floor space, a wall-mounted unit might be best. But if you rent or like to rearrange your bathroom often, a freestanding unit offers more flexibility.

Lastly, consider your budget. Column units come in a wide range of prices. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that a bathroom cabinet needs to withstand daily use in a damp environment. It's often worth investing a bit more for better quality and longevity.

Bathroom Supplies Online's Top Brand Picks

Roca Column Units

Roca is renowned for their high-quality bathroom furniture, and their column units are no exception. These units are built to last, with robust construction that stands up well to the damp bathroom environment. What really sets Roca apart is their impressive range of finishes. They offer a wide variety of options including Anthracite Grey, Arctic Grey, Beige Wood, City Oak, Gloss White, Glossy Grey, Matt Black, Matt White, Nordic Ash, Pebble Grey, Walnut, and White Wood. This extensive selection ensures you can find a finish that perfectly matches your bathroom decor.

Roca also offers versatile design options. Some of their column units feature a centre gap, which can be great for breaking up the visual bulk of the unit and providing a mix of open and closed storage. For those who prefer a sleek, modern look, Roca offers clean, handleless options that create a smooth, uncluttered appearance.

Purity Collection

If you're after a good balance of quality and affordability, the Purity Collection is definitely worth considering. These units offer great value for money without compromising on style or functionality. The Purity Collection stands out with its range of contemporary finishes, including Matt Antique Rose, Matt Deep Blue, Matt Latte, Matt Olive Green, Matt White, Gloss White, and Matt Graphite Grey. This variety allows you to choose a unit that either blends seamlessly with your existing decor or makes a bold statement.

One of the big advantages of the Purity Collection is their quick delivery times. When you're keen to get your bathroom sorted, you don't want to be waiting weeks for your furniture to arrive. They also tend to maintain good stock levels, so you're less likely to find the unit you want is out of stock. Whether you're after a subtle matt white or looking to add a pop of colour with antique rose or deep blue, Purity Collection offers stylish options to suit various tastes.

Ideal Standard Column Units

Ideal Standard is a brand that caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets, making them a popular choice for many bathroom renovators. Their column units are known for combining practicality with style, offering solutions that work well in various bathroom settings.

One of Ideal Standard's strengths is their colour variety. They offer column units in a range of shades, from classic whites and neutrals to more contemporary colours. This means you can easily find a unit that either blends in with your existing bathroom decor or stands out as a feature piece.

When it comes to design, Ideal Standard offers both traditional and modern styles. You'll find units with clean, minimalist lines for contemporary bathrooms, as well as options with more decorative details for those who prefer a classic look. Many of their units feature a mix of open shelving and closed storage, giving you the flexibility to display some items while keeping others hidden away.

Ideal Standard is also known for offering good quality across their price ranges. Whether you're working with a tight budget or looking to invest in a premium unit, you can expect a well-made product. Their units are typically constructed from materials that stand up well to the damp bathroom environment, with finishes that are easy to clean and maintain.

Another plus point for Ideal Standard is their attention to practical details. Many of their column units come with features like soft-close doors, adjustable shelves, and easy-mount systems for wall-hung options. These small touches can make a big difference in day-to-day use.

Ideal Standard's range of prices means there's likely to be an option to suit most budgets. While they offer some higher-end units with premium features, they also have more affordable options that don't skimp on quality or style.

Overall, Ideal Standard's column units offer a good balance of style, functionality, and value. Their wide range of options means you're likely to find something that fits your bathroom's needs, whether you're after a simple storage solution or a statement piece of bathroom furniture.

Column Units: FAQs

1. How tall are bathroom column units?

• Most bathroom column units range from 140cm to 200cm in height. However, you can find shorter or taller options to suit your specific needs.

2. What's the difference between a freestanding and wall-mounted column unit?

• Freestanding units sit on the floor and can be moved, while wall-mounted units are fixed to the wall, saving floor space and creating a floating look.

3. Are bathroom column units waterproof?

• While not completely waterproof, most are water-resistant and designed to withstand bathroom humidity. Look for units made with moisture-resistant materials like melamine-faced chipboard.

4. How wide are bathroom column units typically?

• They usually range from 30cm to 60cm wide. Measure your space carefully to ensure a good fit.

5. Can I install a bathroom column unit myself?

• Many freestanding units can be easily installed DIY. Wall-mounted units might require professional installation to ensure they're securely fixed.

6. What's the best material for a bathroom column unit?

• Melamine-faced chipboard is popular for its affordability and water-resistance. MDF and solid wood are also options if properly sealed.

7. How much do bathroom column units cost?

• Prices vary widely, from around £100 for basic models to over £1000 for high-end units. Set your budget based on your needs and the quality you're after.

8. Can bathroom column units be used in small bathrooms?

• Yes, their tall, narrow design makes them ideal for maximising storage in small spaces without taking up much floor area.

9. How do I clean and maintain a bathroom column unit?

• Most can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners, and always follow the manufacturer's care instructions.

10. Can I customise the shelves in a bathroom column unit?

• Many units come with adjustable shelves, allowing you to customise the internal layout to suit your storage needs.