Sydney bathrooms deal with humidity, steam and daily wear, so materials need to handle moisture as well as look good. Here is what we recommend for each part of the bathroom.
Floor and wall tiles
- Porcelain: the best all-round choice. Dense, low water absorption and hard-wearing. Choose a slip-rated finish for floors.
- Ceramic: fine for walls and budget-friendly, but softer than porcelain.
- Natural stone: beautiful but needs sealing and more care.
- Large-format tiles: fewer grout lines, easier cleaning, but need a very flat substrate and skilled tiling.
Use epoxy or high-quality grout in showers to resist staining and mould.
Vanity materials
| Material | Pros | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture-resistant board with laminate or 2-pac finish | Affordable, stable, wide range of colours | Edges must be sealed |
| Timber veneer | Warm look, lighter and more stable than solid timber | Needs a quality sealed finish |
| Solid timber | Natural, repairable, ages well | Moves with humidity and needs maintenance |
| Compact laminate | Very water-resistant and tough | Limited finishes |
Do timber vanities work in Sydney bathrooms?
Yes, when they’re built and finished properly. The keys are a good exhaust fan, a quality sealed finish on every face and edge (including the inside of cut-outs), a wall-hung or raised design so the base stays dry, and keeping timber away from direct water spray. Spotted gum, blackbutt and oak veneers all work well. In a poorly ventilated bathroom, a timber-look laminate or veneer is the safer choice.
Benchtops
- Porcelain or sintered stone: heat- and stain-resistant, very durable.
- Natural stone (marble, granite): premium look; marble needs sealing.
- Solid surface: seamless and repairable, often with an integrated basin.
- Laminate: budget-friendly, needs well-sealed edges.
Engineered stone is no longer available in Australia after the national ban from 1 July 2024.
Tapware and fittings
Choose WELS-rated tapware from established brands with local spare parts and warranties. Brushed and matte finishes hide water spots better than polished chrome. Check that wall mixers and in-wall cisterns are compatible with your plumbing before buying.
Bathrooms built to last, with Blackwood
Blackwood Carpentry & Joinery renovates bathrooms across Sydney and builds custom vanities and storage with our own joiners. NSW Lic. 502666C. For layout and storage ideas, see our bathroom renovation ideas, or check current prices in our bathroom cost guide.
See our bathroom and laundry renovations or call Fred on 0478 900 078.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best tile for a bathroom?
Porcelain, with a slip-rated finish on floors.
Are timber vanities a good idea in a bathroom?
Yes, with good ventilation, a fully sealed finish and a wall-hung design that keeps the timber off wet floors.
What benchtop is best for a bathroom vanity?
Porcelain or sintered stone for durability, natural stone for a premium look, or laminate on a budget.