Yes, you should install the tile first and place the vanity on top.
For Wall-Hung Vanities: It's often better to tile the wall first to ensure a neat, continuous look behind the vanity. For Freestanding Vanities: Installing the vanity first can save on tile costs and simplify the process.
Tiling under your vanity can help seal up any voids that might collect water and harm your home's construction. Sink and drain lines can leak if not properly installed or prepared, and often this leak runs down the back side of a vanity and into the floor.
In What Order Should You Renovate A Bathroom?
You Want a Seamless Look
Installing kitchen tiles before cabinets may create a more seamless aesthetic. For example, you don't need a visible expansion gap when the tiles go underneath the cabinets. Everything will also be at a similar height when the cabinets are on top of the tiles.
Kitchen floor tiles are typically installed up to the cabinets, not under them. This approach allows for easier installation and replacement of the cabinets in the future, without having to disturb the flooring. It also ensures a cleaner and more finished look, with the cabinets sitting securely on the subfloor.
Uneven subfloors, out-of-plumb walls, or skipping backer boards can all lead to lippage, cracking, or even full-on tile failure. Start with a level surface. Flatness is the goal, ideally about 1/8” over 10' with no noticeable peaks or dips, which takes real effort. And always choose the right underlayment for the job.
Bathroom trends for 2026 are characterized by the resurgence of untreated natural finishes, including stone. Together with handmade and textured tiles, the look is more rustic. This gives a warmer and more organic feel. The most popular bathroom tiles for 2026 are those inspired by limestone and travertine.
The golden rule for bathroom layouts is to maintain proper clearances and spacing around all fixtures. This means keeping at least 30 inches of clear space in front of toilets, sinks, and showers, with 15 inches from the toilet centerline to any wall or fixture.
Inadequate Space Planning: Poor space planning can result in cramped and uncomfortable bathrooms. Make sure fixtures like the toilet, shower, and vanity are appropriately spaced to allow for easy movement and functionality.
Tiling the wall space behind your vanity isn't just about trend—it's about practical protection and visual continuity. In most cases, it shields your drywall from daily splashes, humidity, and occasional toothpaste mishaps that inevitably land back there.
Grouting mistakes make your tile project look less than perfect—despite all of your hard work. Common errors include adding too much water to the grout mix, holding the grout tools wrong, and neglecting timing.
Tiling before installing a wall-mounted vanity is generally recommended to ensure a cleaner look and easier installation process. "Tile first, if there is a problem later on and a new vanity is required, you don't have to worry about matching tile or replacing the whole wall."
Where do I Start When Planning a Bathroom Renovation?
We recommend having your tiles fitted before installing a sink, shower, bath and toilet. This means your bathroom suite can sit on top of the tiles, providing a better seal and finish.
Whether you want a subtle 4-inch backsplash, full-wall tile, or no backsplash at all, the choice is yours. Leaving the backsplash out allows you to pair the vanity with whatever wall finish you love. Many customers want to carry tile or stone all the way up the wall behind the vanity for a more dramatic effect.
Chipped tiles, stained grout, and brightly colored porcelain tubs and toilets (think avocado green, mustard yellow, or bubblegum pink) instantly make a bathroom look neglected. No matter how clean the rest of the space is, damaged surfaces or retro fixtures give off a dated vibe.
Uneven Tiles or Poor Gradient
One of the first signs of a sloppy job is grout lines that don't line up, or messy cuts. These are obvious aesthetic signs that the contractor is cutting corners. Even worse and less obvious are uneven tile surfaces, what's known as lippage.
One of the most flattering colours is…
pink. Don't worry, I'm not talking bubblegum pink. I'm talking pinks with warm undertones that ooze personality - the muddy plaster pinks, dusky rose pinks or even warm neutrals with pink or peach undertones.
What Is the 3-5-7 Rule? At its core, the 3-5-7 rule refers to working in odd-numbered proportions to create visual balance. In interior design, odd numbers feel more natural and less rigid than even ones.
The bathroom is the energy centre of the home and therefore particularly important for the Chi. A north- or north-west facing bathroom is ideal for feng shui. Colours play an important role in creating a soothing atmosphere in the bathroom.
Timeless bathrooms typically rely on a neutral palette — whites, warm grays, soft taupes, or classic black-and-white combinations. These colors provide flexibility, allowing hardware and décor to evolve without requiring a full renovation.
Colour, confidently. Colour is a defining element of tile design for 2026. Across natural marble, marble effect porcelain, ceramics and stone effect surfaces, there is a clear move towards warmer, richer shades that create welcoming, expressive interiors.
Common Signs of An Outdated Bathroom
Cracked or chipped tiles can also be an eyesore. Leaky or Old Faucets: Dripping faucets not only waste water but also give off an impression of neglect. Upgrading to modern fixtures can instantly elevate the look and functionality of your bathroom.