Creating a wooden bathroom vanity with a barn door cabinet is a stylish and practical project that adds a rustic charm to your bathroom while maximizing storage. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to build this unique and functional piece of furniture.
Materials Needed:
- Wood (oak, pine, or any hardwood of your choice for the vanity and barn door)
- Barn door hardware (sliding rail, rollers, and hangers)
- Screws and nails
- Wood glue
- Measuring tape
- Wood finish or paint (stain or paint for desired finish)
- Woodworking tools (saw, drill, screwdriver, clamps, hammer, etc.)
Step 1: Plan and Measure
Start by measuring the space where the vanity will be placed. Typical bathroom vanities range from 30 to 36 inches in height, 24 to 30 inches in depth, and 36 to 60 inches in width. Plan your vanity’s dimensions according to your space and aesthetic preferences.
Decide on the size of your barn door and how much of the vanity’s front will be covered by it. A single barn door typically covers about half of the cabinet’s front area.
Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces
Using your measurements, begin cutting your wood pieces to size. You will need:
- A base for the vanity (the bottom panel)
- Side panels (for the sides of the vanity)
- A back panel (for support and stability)
- Shelving (if desired, inside the vanity)
- Front frame for the barn door cabinet
- The barn door itself
For the barn door, cut a piece of wood (or use several pieces joined together) to the desired width and height. You can either make it a flat, solid piece or create a paneled design with wood slats.
Step 3: Assemble the Vanity Frame
Start by assembling the base and side panels using wood glue and screws. Attach the back panel to the sides and base, securing it with screws for added stability. If you’re adding shelves inside the vanity, cut the shelves to size and secure them with screws or brackets to the interior of the vanity.
Once the frame is assembled, sand all edges to remove any rough spots or splinters. This will give your vanity a polished, professional look.
Step 4: Attach the Barn Door Hardware
Now it’s time to install the barn door hardware. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the sliding rail and roller system. Typically, the hardware consists of a top rail that runs along the top of the vanity and rollers that hang from the door.
Install the top rail on the wall above your vanity and make sure it is level. This is critical for smooth operation. Next, attach the rollers to the top of the barn door and hang the door on the rail.
Make sure the door can slide open and close easily. You may need to adjust the hangers or hardware for a smooth movement. Some barn door systems come with a floor guide to help stabilize the door and prevent swaying.
Step 5: Finish the Vanity
Before attaching the barn door permanently, you can now finish your vanity. Sand all wooden surfaces, and then apply your chosen finish. If you want a natural wood look, apply a wood stain and follow it with a protective finish like polyurethane. If you prefer a painted look, apply a primer and then a couple of coats of paint in your chosen color.
Allow everything to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 6: Install the Barn Door
Once the finish is dry, it’s time to install the barn door. Ensure the door slides smoothly over the opening of the cabinet. You can add hardware like a handle or a latch to make it more functional. A simple metal handle can create a great rustic look.
Step 7: Install the Vanity
With the barn door in place, it’s time to install the vanity into the bathroom. Use screws to anchor the vanity to the wall for stability. This is particularly important in bathrooms, where humidity can affect the structure of your furniture over time.
You may need to cut holes in the vanity for plumbing and drainage. Take careful measurements and ensure that the faucet, sink, and plumbing will align with the cutouts in your vanity.
Step 8: Final Touches
Once your vanity is securely in place and the barn door is functioning correctly, add your sink and faucet. You can use a vessel sink, undermount, or drop-in sink based on your preference. Install any additional plumbing hardware, such as the drain and faucet fixtures.
You may also choose to add decorative touches like baskets, small trays, or countertop storage to enhance the look and functionality of your new vanity.
Conclusion
Building a wooden bathroom vanity with a barn door cabinet is a rewarding project that combines craftsmanship with functionality. The barn door element gives your vanity a rustic, charming look while offering practical storage solutions for your bathroom essentials. With patience, the right materials, and some basic woodworking skills, you can create a piece that adds both beauty and practicality to your space.
For more woodworking projects and detailed plans, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.