BY ATHENA MCKENZIE
Designing your dream kitchen involves a lot of decisions, including choosing the ideal sink. This important feature can be a long-term commitment, where you spend hours of meal preparation and cleanup. From the material you choose and the installation type to the colour and basic configuration, each type has different advantages and functionality.
With so many unique sink styles to choose from, Spruce breaks down the features and benefits of each.
Modern Farmhouse
Homeowners who love the popular apron-front style, whether traditional or modern, have lots of options. The classic farmhouse sink — which features a deep basin and an exposed apron-front installation — is timeless. The copper, stone and stainless steel options from Stone Forest all have an elegant, refined look and do not sacrifice functionality.
The Farmstead sink from KOHLER is a stylish reimagining of the farmhouse sink. Made from enameled cast iron with a sleek painted underside, the sink can be installed wall-mount with legs or top-mount with custom cabinetry, which gives it the look of a custom, hand-constructed piece of furniture.
That’s A Drop
Also known as a self-rimming or top-mount, a drop-in sink fits into a cutout in your countertop, with the rim resting on the counter. They are the easiest to install, and while compatible with all materials, are usually paired with laminate counters.
Their advantage is the cost and the ease of installation. They also come in a diverse range of materials. The Blanco Metra, also made from Silgranit, comes in a range of colours, and offers exceptional resistance to heat, scratches and impact. Visit blanco-germany.com for local retailers.
Subtle and Sleek
An undermount sink is installed under the countertop, so the sink hangs underneath the counter, as opposed to sitting on top of it. This creates a continuous flow from the countertop into the sink. This installation style is best suited for solid-surface countertop materials, such as granite, soapstone, marble, or concrete.
Laminate or tile counters may have too many weak points along the seams and grout lines to support the weight of the sink. Franke’s Chef Centre, with its stainless steel basin, offers a variety of custom-fitted accessories. Visit franke.com for local retailers.
Seamless Style
The other popular installation is the integrated sink, where the countertop has a built-in sink out of the same material. The seamless and contemporary appearance can make a real style statement. It’s also easy to clean, allows for customization and looks very luxurious.
What’s Your Configuration?
When it comes to picking your sink, a major decision is whether to get a single or double basin. While single-bowl sinks are trendy right now, there are a number of factors to consider, such as how much space you have, how many people use your kitchen at the same time and how you prefer to clean up.
If you’re limited in counter space, a large single-bowl sink could be best. Even if you’re not limited in space, it can make hand-washing larger pots and pans much easier. However single basin set-ups are less compatible with a built-in disposal.
If you tend to start clean-up while your cooking is still underway, a double-basin sink lets you start washing dishes on one side while still prepping on the other. The double basins can be the same size, or offset so one is larger.
