A Well-Appointed Cabinet

Medicine cabinets have evolved from a mirror on a box into a significant design feature in the bath that can be framed elaborately or be grouped with other elements for a wall of storage. They’re available in a huge variety of sizes and shapes, so the design options are considerable. Here are some basics to help in your decision-making.

• There are two types of medicine cabinets: recessed and surface-mount. Surface-mount cabinets jut into the room. Recessed cabinets, which require more planning to avoid outside walls or walls with plumbing, have a built-in look.
  
• Surface-mount cabinets have a bigger presence in a room than recessed cabinets.
  
• The most popular style of medicine cabinets is a framed, recessed cabinet with a classic look.
  
• Medicine-cabinet mirrors can be framed in a variety of materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, wood, plastic, and even mirror edging.
  
• Features include adjustable shelves, aluminum interiors that won’t rust, push buttons for opening the mirror and avoiding fingerprints, integrated magnifying mirror, mirrors on the inside, and electrical outlets on the inside or the outside.
  
• Frameless medicine cabinets are a popular look for contemporary baths.
  
• A single medicine cabinet’s width should be equal to or less than that of the sink or vanity over which it sits. It should be centered over the vanity or sink. Keep it at eye level and arm’s length when standing in front of the sink.
  
• An alternative to installing the medicine cabinet above the sink is to install it next to the sink, with a mirror over the sink.