Norfolk-based interior designer Jaime Simpson on the beauty, versatility and variety of that maximum multitasker: the sink
By Jaime Simpson
The sink. It is a definite multitasker: it is where we soak, scrub, wash and rinse. The sink and its BFF, the faucet, come together to create our go-to water source, and the place to be for getting something clean.
Sinks are mainly located in kitchens and bathrooms, but they are also great additions to a laundry area, butler’s pantry, bar or outdoor space. It’s always best to ask yourself what features are most important to you based on where the sink will be located and how it will be used.
Kitchen sinks and laundry sinks should be durable and have the right configuration to complement the way your household cleans. Main bathroom sinks should also be durable but could perhaps be colorful or of a more unique material like concrete or copper. Powder rooms or guest baths that receive a gentler amount of use could perhaps be an art glass or marble.
While sinks are ultimately utilitarian in nature, they can be showstoppers, too, so consider both form and function.
Undermount Versus Drop-In Sinks
No matter what room or function a sink is destined for, it’s important to consider how the sink will be mounted and what materials are best suited for that.
Undermount sinks are built to be installed to the underside of the countertop (usually a natural stone or quartz countertop) to eliminate a lip or seam on the countertop level.
Drop-in (surface mount) sinks are installed into the sink cutout from above and have a rim around the edge that sits on top of the countertop surface. This style of sink is mainly used with laminate or wood countertops to help protect the edges of the cutout from water.
FOR KITCHEN, BAR & LAUNDRY
Single, Double & Triple Bowl
Single bowl sinks are great for washing and soaking large items, like pots and pans. Double bowl sinks provide options for households that prefer to handwash dishes as one side can be the soaking/washing side, and the other can be the rinsing/drying side. Triple-bowl sinks offer yet another option with a third bowl that is often smaller than the other two and can be available for rinsing and other uses.
Workstation, Apron & Farmhouse
A workstation sink interior is shaped to have a built-in ledge for accessories—such as cutting boards, drying racks and utensil bins—to rest on, bringing all those items into one space and minimizing the work area needed. Apron or farmhouse sinks are shaped so that the front of the sink is visible within a cutout of the frame of the cabinetry.
FOR BATHROOMS
Vessel
Vessel sinks are surface mount sinks; the bottom of the sink sits on top of the counter so that the entire sink is visible.
Trough
This is a wide-open sink space that is typically installed on a base, and not within a cabinet or countertop. These are often used in larger spaces with more than one faucet feeding into the same trough.
Pedestal
Pedestal sinks are freestanding sinks on a matching base, instead of within cabinetry. These are a wonderful choice for smaller spaces.
Wall-mounted
Like pedestal sinks, wall-mounted sinks are independent of cabinetry and essentially float, with an exposed drain. These are also a good option for smaller spaces as well as for accessibility.
Show Them What You’re Made Of
Sink materials are as important to consider as sink styles and mounts. From more traditional stainless steel and ceramic to glass, concrete to even wood, you may want to think outside box when it comes to what a sink can be made of.
Stainless steel
One of the most common materials for kitchen and outdoor sinks, stainless steel is molded into various shapes and arrangements and comes in different gauges (or thicknesses). The lower the gauge, the thicker the steel. Stainless steel is non-porous and resistant to chips and rust but can be susceptible to scratches and dents.
Ceramic
Made from fired clay and then glazed, ceramic sinks are a classic. Often found in white, other colors are also available. Ceramic sinks are typically used in kitchens and in bathrooms. Ceramic is dent resistant but can scratch and chip.
Composite
This is typically a blend of acrylics, quartz, and granite materials that are joined together to bring out the best features of each. Resistant to scratches, dents, chips, and stains, it is a popular choice for kitchen and laundry areas.
Glass
Glass sinks are available in clear, frosted or textured options, and come in a myriad of colors. A vessel type is often selected here, so that the beauty of the glass is fully visible.
Other Metals
Copper, nickel and brass sinks are mainly chosen for aesthetic purposes; these metals are best used for areas with minimal wear and tear. They are available in different finishes, like hammered, brushed or polished, and will show a patina over time.
Concrete
Concrete sinks can be shaped in many ways and available in a variety of colors. Because they are porous, concrete sinks should be resealed once or twice a year to minimize absorption and prevent staining. Concrete will also develop a patina.
Solid surface
Made from polymers and acrylics and molded into shape, these are typically used as part of a seamless solid surface countertop in bathrooms or in commercial spaces.
Natural stone
Marble, granite, limestone and more can be carved and shaped into sinks. Often used as vessel sinks for aesthetics, natural stone sinks also need to be regularly sealed due to their porous nature.
Wood
Yes, wood sinks are available! Mostly found in vessel form, wood sinks that are appropriately sealed, or made of moisture resistant wood (like teak) can be used successfully.
Patterns, Colors & Shapes, Oh My
In addition to the variety of styles, functions and materials, sinks also offer an opportunity to show off your personal taste with an array of patterns, colors, shapes and trends that can add a unique touch to your space.
Playing with Pattern
Hand-painted ceramic sinks and art glass sinks, for example, are an amazing way to add pattern and a multi-color touch, especially in a vessel sink.
Crazy for Color
Ceramic is available in several colors for sinks as are composite, glass, concrete and natural stone.
Shaping Things Up
Sinks most often come in oval, round or rectangular shapes, but the options don’t end there. Scalloped, irregular edges and
even triangles can be found.
Interested in exploring options in person? Local retailers like Ferguson Home and Mosaic Home Interiors have showrooms featuring a variety of sinks and can source a multitude of other options.
Overall, functionality should be the springboard to launch you in the right direction, but sinks can be statement pieces as well. They are master multi-taskers, after all.
