Artsy-craftsy types, need your suggestions to help finish a bathroom vanity

In My Humble Opinion
1

I just finished converting an old cabinet (found at a local eclectic furniture store) into a vanity for the bathroom. Pictured here.

I had to cut the square opening into the top to fit the sink (travertine). I think it all came together nicely. But water splashes a bit when washing hands and the finished wooden surface to either side needs to be manually dried afterwards or I’m worried that the water will get absorbed and damage the finish.

So I am wondering what could be overlaid that won’t detract from the overall look. I think little tiles are out. Too busy-looking. All I can think of is finishing the few construction related scratches and give it twenty coats of varnish for waterproofing. I’m wondering if there are more interesting options I might be missing.

2

Use varathane or spar varnish on the top. That’s what they use on wooden boats.

3

Go to a place that makes countertops and ask for scraps of Corian. It is available in colors that will go with the sink and the vanity, it’s ½" thick, and it’s easily worked with basic woodworking tools that have carbide tips. Non-carbide tools will work but they’ll get dull very quickly.