When it comes to transforming a standard IKEA vanity into a custom, built-in unit, the Godmorgon model offers a cost-effective and adaptable solution for homeowners seeking a polished, professional appearance without the expense of a custom build. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to customizing and installing the Godmorgon vanity, based on real-world experiences and practical modifications described in multiple DIY projects. The focus is on creating a seamless, minimalist floating vanity with a custom shelf, filler panels, and undermount sink compatibility.
Overview of the Godmorgon Vanity
The Godmorgon vanity is a modular unit designed for flexibility and affordability. It consists of a base unit with drawers and is commonly used in bathrooms. However, due to its uniform design and affordability, it is well-suited for customization. By adding custom wood panels, filler pieces, and integrating it into a countertop, users can transform the Godmorgon into a built-in vanity that matches their home's design aesthetic.
The customization process involves several key steps: installing a floating shelf, attaching the vanities to the wall, modifying the drawers to accommodate undermount sinks, and adding filler pieces to close gaps and create a seamless appearance. The result is a vanity that looks custom-built but is assembled using cost-effective IKEA components and personalized enhancements.
Step 1: Installing the Floating Shelf
A critical element in achieving the built-in look is the installation of a floating shelf beneath the vanities. This shelf serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose, providing storage while also visually anchoring the vanity unit.
The process begins by assembling the vanities and then constructing a base frame for the floating shelf. A 2×4 frame is typically built directly on the floor to minimize the depth and ensure the frame remains hidden. Given that floors are often uneven, shims are added to adjust the height and ensure the frame is level. Once the frame is level, it is attached to the wall studs using long wood screws. A strip of thin plywood is then added to the front of the frame to cover the gaps left by the shims, preventing small objects from falling into the space.
The shelf itself is usually pre-mitered, which simplifies the installation. It is cut to the appropriate width and sanded to fit the walls, especially if the walls are textured. The shelf is then attached to the frame using wood glue and finish nails, ensuring a secure and stable installation.
Step 2: Attaching the Vanities to the Wall
IKEA's standard installation instructions for the Godmorgon vanity include limited wall-attachment points, which may not align with wall studs and may not provide sufficient support for heavy countertops and sinks. As a result, many users opt to reinforce the installation using alternative methods.
One common approach is to create a support ledge using a ripped-down 2×4 attached to the wall. The bottom of the vanities is then placed on this ledge. Metal L-brackets are added to connect the vanities to the support ledge, providing additional stability. For further reinforcement, cross pieces along the back of the vanities are drilled into the wall studs, with two screws per stud. Heavy-duty toggle bolts are also used, as recommended by IKEA, to ensure the vanities remain securely fastened.
To prevent the vanities from separating, the units are also screwed together at the front. This method ensures the vanities are stable and will not shift or separate under the weight of the countertop and sink.
Step 3: Adding Blocking for Filler Pieces
Before installing the countertop, it is essential to add blocking on the sides of the vanity to support the filler pieces. These filler pieces are used to close the gaps between the vanities and the walls, giving the unit a built-in appearance. The blocking can be added in several ways. On one side, a strip of 2×4 is secured flush to the front edge of the vanity, while three cross pieces are attached to the wall using pocket hole screws. This method provides a stable base for the filler pieces, ensuring they remain in place once the countertop is installed.
On the other side, a different method is used, involving attaching a vertical strip to the vanity and then adding two smaller pieces to the top and bottom using wood glue. This creates a solid piece that helps in securing the filler pieces. It is recommended to install the filler pieces before the countertop is installed, as doing so afterward can be difficult due to limited space and visibility.
Step 4: Installing the Countertop and Sink
The countertop is a key element in the built-in look and should complement the overall design of the bathroom. A 3cm Hanstone Quartz countertop in the color Coast is a popular choice due to its light gray color, subtle white veining, and honed texture that resembles natural stone. Two rectangular undermount sinks are typically installed to provide a clean, modern appearance.
When using undermount sinks, it is important to modify the Godmorgon drawers to accommodate the plumbing. The drawers may need to be adjusted to avoid interference with the sink and plumbing. In some cases, the plumbing can be routed to avoid the bottom drawer, but if not, both drawers may require modifications.
The modification process involves using a Dremel to notch out a section of the back of the drawer and attaching removable dividers to the cut edge for a cleaner look. This allows the drawer to function properly while maintaining the integrity of the design. The same process is repeated for the bottom drawer, ensuring that no unfinished edges are visible.
Step 5: Finishing Touches and Addressing Gaps
After the countertop and sink are installed, it is important to address any gaps or imperfections that may affect the overall appearance. One common issue is misalignment of the drawers, which can create visible gaps in the center of the vanity. Since the drawers cannot be adjusted left or right, an alternative solution is to use edge banding veneer to cover the gaps and create a more seamless look.
Iron-on edge banding, often used in kitchen cabinetry, is a practical solution. It adheres well to melamine surfaces and can be trimmed with a sharp blade and lightly sanded for a clean finish. This method effectively hides the gaps and gives the vanity a more cohesive appearance.
Once the edge banding is applied, the final step is to install custom drawer pulls. Low-profile, minimalist pulls are ideal for maintaining the clean, built-in look. These pulls are installed after the countertop and sink are in place and before the filler pieces are secured.
Conclusion
The Godmorgon vanity, when customized with a floating shelf, filler pieces, and undermount sink modifications, can be transformed into a built-in unit that rivals the appearance of a custom build. The process involves a combination of structural reinforcement, material customization, and attention to detail to ensure the final product is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, homeowners can achieve a professional-looking vanity without the cost and complexity of a fully custom unit. The result is a vanity that is not only tailored to the specific needs of the space but also blends seamlessly with the overall design of the bathroom.