A lot of people look to their sinks, tubs or even tiles to set the tone in the bathroom. While these can achieve a certain feel in the room, when a quick update is desired the place to look is at the bathroom vanities themselves. Offering a relatively affordable, easy way to update a bathroom, these fixtures can take little time to switch out, too.

There are lots of reasons why changing these fixtures out over and above the tub, shower stall and even floors is the desired method to update for many. The reality is bathroom vanities do a lot more than hold up a counter and serve as a place for the sink to be set. These creations do in fact help set the entire tone for the room. When a new look is desired, often replacing the vanity is all that's needed to get the job done and done well.

Bathroom vanities can come in many styles, each lending itself to creating a different kind of atmosphere in the bathroom. Some of the many options include:

* Retro. Formica bathroom vanities and other similar creations can give a bathroom a retro feel. When they are used in conjunction with period countertops and sinks and fixtures the overall look of the room can be changed completely without having to go to the expense of changing out the tiles, tub or even flooring. If the flooring is going to be changed, a black and white check pattern can really add to the new look.

* Country. Light woods don't necessarily have to give off a down home country feel, but they can very well. When a softer, more homey look is desired in the powder room, a light wood vanity can achieve the goal quite well.

* Traditional. Darker wood type vanities with white countertops are ideal for creating a stately, somber look in a powder room. When sink fixtures are chosen that give off an antique feel, the overall look of the bathroom can change quickly and effectively.

* Ultra modern. Fabricated, hard plastic bathroom vanities that come with similar or matching countertops and sinks can really offer a spectacular, updated look. When these are used correctly in a decorating scheme, the look can be quite impressive.

Replacing bathroom vanities might seem like a lot of work, but it doesn't really have to be. Some vanities can be purchased pre-made and all ready for the sink to be hooked up to the plumbing. Others prefer to create their own vanities to make a more rustic, antique look possible on a budget.

When replacing bathroom vanities, remember, the sink will need to either be saved or a new one purchased to fit in its place. Countertops, too, might have to be replaced, as well. Some vanities, however, come complete with everything but the final hook up to the plumbing.

When a fast change is desired for the powder room, one of the best places to look is at the bathroom vanities themselves. Fairly easy and affordable to change out, these cabinets can make or break a room's designer appeal.