The Short Answer
A floating vanity (also called a wall-mounted vanity) is attached directly to the wall with no floor contact. It creates a visually open bathroom because floor space is visible beneath the vanity. The open floor space makes the room feel larger and is easier to clean. Floating vanities require the wall to have adequate blocking (structural wood embedded in the wall) to support the weight of the vanity and sink. Adding blocking to an existing wall requires opening the wall. Floating vanities are heavier than they look — a concrete or stone top can weigh 100-150 lbs.