Measure twice. Feel at home.

Take a tape measure, a sheet of paper and a few photographs. Sketch the vanity wall as you face it, then draw a simple view from above. Record the wall-to-wall distance at the positions where the cabinet and top will sit. Walls are not always straight or square, so a single measurement across the floor is not enough.

Work in millimetres and label every measurement. Mark doors, architraves, windows, skirting and any ledge or projecting tile. Note whether your measurements are taken from the finished surface or from a wall that still needs lining and tiling. Give your installer both the sketch and the photographs.

A product’s nominal width does not describe every part of the assembly. Write down the cabinet width, depth and height; the top’s width, depth and thickness; and the basin’s overall footprint and height. Check whether the top overhangs the cabinet and whether a basin is above-counter, inset or integrated.

• Check which parts the selected variant actually includes.
• Compare the basin footprint with usable bench space, not just the cabinet width.
• Note tap holes, waste openings, cut-outs and the location of any overflow.
• Ask for the technical drawing if a required dimension is missing.

Mark the centre positions of existing water and waste connections relative to the finished floor and an identifiable side wall. Photograph what is inside the current cabinet if it can be viewed safely. Drawers, internal shelves and plumbing can compete for the same space.

For a wall-hung cabinet, ask your installer to confirm the wall construction, fixing method and support needed for the complete installed weight. Do not assume that a clear wall surface means it can support any cabinet. Plumbing relocation, waterproofing and electrical work require their own assessment.

Mark the proposed cabinet footprint on the floor with removable tape, where suitable for the surface. Imagine standing at the basin, opening every drawer and using the nearby toilet, shower or door. Include handles and the space needed to clean alongside the cabinet.

Decide on the finished basin height with the people who will use it, then check how cabinet height, top thickness and an above-counter basin combine. There is no single installation height or clearance that suits every person and room; agree the final arrangement with your installer.

Compare mixer reach and spout height with the basin’s shape and position. Check the mounting method, available space behind the basin and any obstruction from a window or mirror. A matching colour does not establish mechanical compatibility.

Confirm the waste connection size and whether the waste must suit a basin overflow. For an illuminated mirror, check its dimensions, mounting instructions, electrical connection and the access needed for servicing. Keep lighting and power decisions with the appropriately qualified trade.

Put each shortlisted option on its own line: product name, model or SKU, selected finish, cabinet dimensions, top dimensions, basin, mixer, waste and mirror. Add columns for inclusions, unanswered questions and delivery access. An example note might be: “Cabinet selected; top depth and basin overflow compatibility still to confirm.”

Use the project advice form to send those details before ordering. Confirm the actual variant, full supply price and installation plan, then keep the agreed specification with your order. The vanity collection is a useful place to compare the next option.