The Medicine Cabinet: A Must-Have for Every Bathroom
Aside from the basic fixtures like a toilet, sink, and bath or shower, one essential item that every bathroom needs is a storage cabinet. While there are various types of storage options available, the humble medicine cabinet is definitely worth considering. In the past, medicine cabinets fell out of favor and were replaced by open shelving or tall cabinets. Their bulky and outdated appearance made them less popular. However, in recent years, medicine cabinets have been making a comeback.
Modern medicine cabinets are sleek, stylish, and highly functional. They are no longer the dusty wooden cabinets of the past. These cabinets are designed to store medicines and toiletries, keeping them organized and easily accessible. With a medicine cabinet, you'll never have to search for items in your bathroom again.
Speaking to The Spruce, an interior design expert, shared why he thought the once decidedly uncool storage unit has been gaining popularity again. "With more and more clients requiring additional storage to leave their countertops clutter-free, the option of using medicine cabinets has most definitely seen a rise," Carmona shared. The need for a less cluttered, more minimalist space is a reason why storage is so important, particularly if you have a small bathroom.
Still, one of the major issues with medicine cabinets is that they're just not as visually pleasing as having a statement mirror or a decorative item above your sink. While most cabinets do have a mirrored front, the look simply isn't as aesthetic as a regular mirror would be — not to mention the added bulk of the cabinet sticking out (though recessed cabinets are a viable alternative). This lack of style is, eventually, partially what led to them going out of style.
The item has split designers due to its purely functional design
As mentioned, the medicine cabinet that seems to be returning in 2024 isn't the one you're probably thinking of. This new batch is sleek and glossy, with many people opting for recessed cabinets (a cabinet that is partially built into the wall) in order to maximize a small bathroom. Note that, with recessed cabinets, you do have to commit to the idea of a medicine cabinet because construction is required. While this may not be an issue for you, if you're someone who finds themselves changing things up often, it's best to go with a less permanent fixture.
There is a growing acceptance of medicine cabinets among designers who were initially opposed to them. HGTV's Nate Berkus, when asked about his opinion on the controversial item by fellow designer Emily Henderson, stated, "I used to avoid them, but now I'm slowly changing my mind due to the storage benefits...I wish someone would create a medicine cabinet that can work with vintage mirrors" (source: Style by Emily Henderson). Whether you love or hate them, it seems like medicine cabinets will become more prevalent in the world of design.
