A bathroom vanity needn’t be straight out of the shop or supplied by a manufacturer or cabinetmaker. Indeed, thinking outside the square can turn up a one-of-a-kind vanity with character and function to boot. Sideboards, desks and cabinets — whether new or used — can all be repurposed to provide storage and surface space.

Before you do anything, think about what your ideal bathroom would be. Forget constraints of money and space; just imagine what you want and what the intended purpose will be. Who is this bathroom for? Is it a master bathroom? A powder bathroom? A kid’s bathroom? How often will it get used and what will the function be?

Strive for cohesion. These shutters are brilliant for lots of reasons. They echo the lines of the subway tiles for an integrated look. They ensure that this on-the-tiny-side bathroom gets a luxe window treatment without impinging on the space. And they provide privacy while letting in light.

Student desk. This simple desk provides all that is needed for a bathroom vanity with three side drawers and counter space. The white undermount basin prevents the single drawer from being used, but the granite top with ledge provides plenty of surface space and protects the wood.