Hey there, design enthusiasts and DIY lovers! It’s Robert Kline, and let’s talk about a topic that’s surprisingly divisive in the design world: the humble medicine cabinet.
As a craftsman who appreciates both aesthetics and functionality, I’ve always grappled with the great medicine cabinet conundrum. Do you prioritize the sleek look of a beautiful mirror or the undeniable practicality of hidden storage? It’s a design dilemma as old as time (or at least as old as indoor plumbing!).
Today, we’re diving deep into this debate, exploring the pros and cons, and revealing some stylish alternatives that might just make you rethink your entire bathroom storage strategy.
The Case Against Medicine Cabinets: A Love Affair with Mirrors
Let’s be honest: medicine cabinets haven’t always been known for their good looks. Historically, they’ve been associated with generic, builder-grade designs that scream “utilitarian” rather than “stylish.”
Here are a few reasons why some homeowners (including yours truly!) have been historically hesitant to embrace the medicine cabinet:
- Generic Aesthetics: Many medicine cabinets lack the character and charm of a statement mirror. They can feel cold, contemporary, and out of place, especially in vintage or eclectic bathrooms.
- Bulky Frames: Often, the frames of medicine cabinets are too large and clunky, overwhelming the space rather than blending seamlessly.
- Permanence Issues: Inset medicine cabinets require construction and can feel like a permanent decision. This can be daunting for those of us who like to refresh our spaces regularly!
- Costly Customizations: Truly stylish and well-designed medicine cabinets often come with a hefty price tag, especially if you’re looking for a custom option.
Personally, I’ve always been drawn to the beauty and artistry of a well-chosen mirror. Mirrors act as windows to the soul of a room, reflecting light and adding a touch of elegance. In my opinion, they often trump the practical appeal of a medicine cabinet.
Basic Mirror 1
Alt: A simple, elegant bathroom mirror adds a touch of sophistication without the need for a medicine cabinet.
The Pro-Medicine Cabinet Argument: Storage Solutions for Real Life
Now, before you write me off as a style-over-function fanatic, let’s hear the other side of the story. I get it—functionality is crucial, especially in a space as frequently used as the bathroom.
To gain some perspective, I reached out to a few fellow designers and experts to get their take on the great medicine cabinet debate:
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Nate Berkus: “I’ve always avoided them [medicine cabinets], but now the trade-off for storage has me slowly converting…I wish someone would invent one that universally works with a vintage mirror.”
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Orlando Soria: “I am fully on Team Medicine Cabinet. …They provide storage at the most convenient height to access while you are standing getting ready in the morning. They also do something that I like in that they provide dual functions: they are storage AND a mirror.”
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Maxwell Ryan (Apartment Therapy): While Maxwell admits he didn’t initially consider medicine cabinets for his Scandinavian-style home, he’s grown to appreciate the “found space” they offer. He understands why designers often shy away from them but acknowledges their practicality, especially for storing everyday essentials.
Modern Medicine Cabinet 3
Alt: A modern medicine cabinet with sleek lines can provide discreet storage without compromising style.
Exploring Stylish Alternatives: Beyond the Traditional Medicine Cabinet
So, where does this leave us? Is there a middle ground between stylish mirrors and practical storage? Absolutely! Here are a few alternatives to consider:
1. The Single Shelf:
This option offers a minimalist approach, providing a surface for displaying a few select items. However, it’s not the most practical solution for storing everyday necessities.
Ledge 2
Alt: A simple shelf below a bathroom mirror can add a decorative touch while providing limited storage.
2. Built-In Side Shelves or Cabinets:
Incorporating shelving or cabinets on either side of the vanity can provide ample storage without sacrificing the mirror. Opting for closed cabinets will keep clutter hidden.
Good Medicine Cabinet 2
Alt: Side cabinets flanking a bathroom mirror offer a stylish and functional storage solution.
3. Sliding Doors (Barn Doors):
While potentially polarizing, sliding doors can add a rustic or industrial touch while concealing storage. It’s essential to choose a style that complements your overall bathroom design.
Sliding Mirror 1
Alt: Sliding barn doors can add a rustic or industrial feel to a bathroom while concealing storage space.
The Ultimate Solution: Mirrors with Hidden Storage
Now, for the pièce de résistance—the storage solution that beautifully marries form and function: the custom or ready-made mirror with hidden shelving on hinges.
Hidden 1
Alt: A mirror with hidden storage offers the best of both worlds: stylish design and practical functionality.
This ingenious design involves creating shallow shelves behind a hinged mirror. It’s a fantastic way to maximize storage space while maintaining a sleek and stylish aesthetic. You can either have this custom-built or, as DIY enthusiast Dabito from Old Brand New demonstrates, create your own using a ready-made mirror and some clever carpentry skills.
Embracing Wall-Mounted Medicine Cabinets: Finding Style in Functionality
Now, if you’re working with limited space, a rental, or a smaller budget, fear not! Wall-mounted medicine cabinets have come a long way in terms of style.
Emily Henderson Medicine Cabinets Roundup
Alt: A roundup of stylish wall-mounted medicine cabinets that offer both storage and visual appeal.
Many manufacturers now offer sleek and modern designs that can enhance rather than detract from your bathroom’s aesthetic. If you’re considering this route, look for options with clean lines, interesting finishes, and unique shapes to add personality and visual interest.
The Medicine Cabinet Decision: It’s Personal!
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to embrace the medicine cabinet is a personal one. Consider your storage needs, your budget, and, most importantly, your personal style.
As with all things design, there’s no right or wrong answer. Embrace the beauty of choice and create a bathroom that reflects your unique taste and lifestyle.
Now, I’d love to hear from you! Do you have any medicine cabinet tales of woe or triumph? Share your experiences, tips, and design dilemmas in the comments below. And be sure to check out more unique, handcrafted items perfect for gifting or enhancing your home decor at Robert Kline Art!