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Emily Henderson Has Never Been a Fan of This Generic Bathroom Storage Solution

Since the 1920s, medicine cabinets have served as a common space-saving storage solution in bathrooms, but designer Emily Henderson expresses a differing opinion on their practicality and aesthetic appeal. In her book, "The New Design Rules," Henderson dedicates a significant portion of the bathroom chapter to detailing her reservations about medicine cabinets and proposing alternative storage methods. She explains that medicine cabinets often appear generic, failing to offer a unique or appealing design. Many ready-made options lack character and visual interest, which she finds uninspiring. Another point of concern for Henderson is the typically bulky and heavy frames of most medicine cabinets. While acknowledging that this design might be necessary for structural integrity, she notes that it frequently clashes with her desired aesthetic. Furthermore, installing inset or recessed medicine cabinets requires substantial wall construction, a commitment that may deter individuals not fully dedicated to a long-term fixture. While high-quality medicine cabinets can be aesthetically pleasing, they often come with a significant price tag, making them less accessible for many homeowners. Additionally, wall-mounted medicine cabinets can consume valuable space in smaller bathrooms, an issue that presents a challenge for those with limited square footage. Despite these drawbacks, Henderson acknowledges that medicine cabinets do provide essential extra storage, which remains their primary advantage. However, she advocates for alternative solutions that offer both functionality and improved aesthetics. She suggests opting for a statement mirror instead of a traditional medicine cabinet, considering it a form of bathroom artwork. She recommends installing such a mirror approximately 64 inches from the floor to its center to achieve an optimal visual balance. For practical and multipurpose storage, Henderson highlights vanities with under-cabinet storage, freestanding armoires, or linen closets as superior options. These alternatives offer ample storage without the design compromises associated with many medicine cabinets. She also offers a DIY hack: recessing simple shallow shelves into the wall and then attaching a vintage mirror with hinges to create hidden storage. This method allows for a chic, personalized medicine cabinet that provides concealed storage while maintaining a stylish appearance. This excerpt from "The New Design Rules" offers readers a fresh perspective on bathroom design, encouraging them to consider more thoughtful and aesthetically pleasing storage solutions beyond conventional medicine cabinets. #BathroomStorage #InteriorDesign #EmilyHenderson #DesignTips #HomeOrganization #BathroomRenovation #SpaceSaving #DIYHome #BathroomStorage #InteriorDesign #EmilyHenderson #DesignTips #HomeOrganization #BathroomRenovation #SpaceSaving #DIYHome
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