A Vanity Glossary

Cabinet:
A vanity design typically featuring matching hinged doors or a combination of hinged doors and sliding drawers positioned adjacently or in vertical tiers.

Pedestal: A vanity design term that refers to the visible upright supports of a pedestal vanity. Pedestal vanities are very similar in style to kneehole desks. Sconce: A bracketed or wall-mounted vanity light bearing a single bulb. A sconce glass shade is usually positioned upright. Vessel: Vessel is a vanity design in which the sink basin is positioned almost entirely above the counter.

Vanity Styles:
Art deco
A decorative style that originated in 1920s France and was prevalent in the U.S. and Europe during the 1920s and 30s. Art deco is characterized by the use of bold primary colors, geometrical forms, and materials such as plastic and steel.

Contemporary:
A vanity style featuring streamlined shapes, open curves, straight and clean lines, and unadorned textures with minimal decorative flourishes.

Cottage:
An eclectic and informal vanity style with an emphasis on natural materials and textures combined in a rustic or traditional manner.

Queen Anne:
A late 19th century revival of 18th century English architecture, the Queen Anne style realized a multiplicity of expressions. In Britain it most resembled the arts and crafts movement, but in general was characterized by a focus on simplicity and refinement.

Shaker/Mission:
A stylistic blend of the American arts and crafts movement, Spanish Colonial architecture, and the utilitarian furniture designed by an 18th century religious sect known as the Shakers.

Traditional:
A decorative style notable for its ornate yet measured visual appearance. Traditional design draws upon the warm textures of natural colors and materials such as wood, brass, and iron. Most cabinet vanities are manufactured in the traditional style, and can be distinguished by their delicate woodwork and richly carved legs.