A Window Above the Bathroom Sink: Feature or Flaw?
See how clever design solutions let you have your vanity mirror and a great view, too
I think it's safe to say that most people love a window above the kitchen sink. But put that window above a bathroom sink, and I think most people would find that to be a flaw. A mirror right above the sink is pretty handy — you can see what you're doing when you brush your teeth or shave your face. So if you have a window there instead, what can you do? Check out 16 bathrooms where that window above the sink is not a flaw, but a feature.
Browse bathroom designs | Find a bathroom designer
Browse bathroom designs | Find a bathroom designer
This marble vanity stands within a bay window, and the mirror was designed to be suspended in front of the window. What an impressive and luxurious space. The window here is definitely a feature of the bathroom, and functionality is handled beautifully.
Are you ready for some creative genius? This mirror slides on a track so that when it is positioned above the sink it reveals a medicine cabinet. Designed by Malcolm David Architecture and built by Mueller Nichols Cabinets & Construction, this is a totally custom piece.
This long, horizontal window running above the entire counter area lets abundant light into the bathroom while mirrors are placed at intervals in front of it. Fluorescent lights inset into the mirrors provide lighting at face level.
This round mirror is held in place by a metal post attached to both sides of the window. In the morning, you would have wonderful natural light illuminating your face from all around, so you can see yourself while enjoying the view, too.
These mirrors are attached above and below between the top of the backsplash and a custom header. Notice that the electrical has been run through the header, and wall sconces are suspended from it between the mirrors. So, they have abundant natural light during the day and extra lighting around the face level whenever it’s needed.
There's something to be said for the most simple and low-tech approach. A freestanding makeup mirror keeps this window entirely unobstructed for sunshine and the view. What a cheerful spot to start the morning.
A large freestanding mirror solves the problem by standing right behind the vessel sink. The faucet is offset to the right.
Find a vessel sink for your bathroom
Find a vessel sink for your bathroom
This simple swing-arm mirror is easy to pull into place when it's needed. And it can be pushed out of the way when you're more interested in gazing off into the distance during your morning ablutions.
Attached to the side wall, this mirror does double duty as a functional piece and sculptural accent. Oh, I would love standing there looking out at the greenery.
Hanging a framed mirror from the ceiling is befitting the traditional style and Old-World charm of this bathroom vanity.
This bathroom is safely tucked into one of my own inspiration ideabooks for favorite bathrooms. A huge area of glass block lets in abundant light while preserving privacy. Flat metal bars running from backsplash to ceiling hold the mirrors in place.
In front of the glass block in this bathroom, medicine cabinets with mirrored doors and lights are attached to a metal frame at the ceiling and counter. Not only do you have the light and mirror, but your toiletries are within handy reach too.
Shoji screens softly filter light into this modern Asian-style bathroom. The mirror is set within the window frame, and pendant lights suspended from the ceiling put the light right where it’s needed to either side of the mirror.
Here's another great example of a traditional bath with an oval mirror hung in front of the window. Simple is good.
A toiletry shelf above the vanity is the perfect spot to prop a little mirror and enjoy the sun on your face.
Tell us: Do you have a window above your bathroom sink? Do you like it? Share your photos!
Browse bathroom designs
Find a bathroom designer
Tell us: Do you have a window above your bathroom sink? Do you like it? Share your photos!
Browse bathroom designs
Find a bathroom designer