As a kitchen staple, there’s much more to the trusty sink than you might think. We’re breaking down what you need to consider before purchasing your new solution.
Planning a kitchen is an exciting, sometimes overwhelming process that comes with a multitude of things to think about, from the cabinetry and appliances to the colour scheme and tiles, explains KBB journo Laurie Davidson…
Something often overlooked in this process, however, is the humble kitchen sink, which, I think, is pretty crazy, considering how pivotal a role it has in our everyday lives. So, whether you want your choice to complement your kitchen or make a statement, you’ll be on the right track.
Here, we answer some key questions to keep your kitchen sink forefront in your mind…
Key considerations
You may have your heart set on a marble sink or a double-bowl design. But before you part with your pennies only to find it doesn’t work with your scheme, there are a few things to think about. There’s the mounting style, tap compatibility, budget, design, as well as the configuration and size – all key factors when making a choice.
“The dimensions of your sink should suit the available space, and depth is important, too. Deeper models accommodate large pots and reduce splashing, for example,” says Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio. “The number of bowls also matters. If counter space is limited, a larger single-basin sink can maximise usability, while a double bowl allows for multitasking, such as rinsing and washing simultaneously.
“Then, there’s the material choice, which is crucial,” continues Charlie. “The sink should align with both your style preferences and practical needs – some materials are more resistant to scratches, stains, and heat than others.”
Tap and plumbing compatibility is also important. “Ensure the sink has the correct number of tap holes for your tap set-up and that the plumbing supports additional features such as a garbage disposal or a water filtration system if you need it,” Charlie advises. “Finally, your sink should never be crammed into a tight area. Ideally, there should be clear counter space on either side for drying dishes, food preparation, or placing kitchen essentials.”
So, what style of sink suits which kitchen?
Always dreamed of a roomy butler sink, or perhaps you prefer the sleek looks of a model that flows from the same material as your worktop? Ensuring you have a style of sink to suit your scheme should be a key factor, which means taking into account other elements in the room.
For example, if you love a traditional country sink aesthetic, then it may be that you need lower-height cabinets underneath. “As a rule, the look of a traditional or painted Shaker kitchen in a period setting can be enhanced by a white butler or farmhouse sink, which tends to be 90cm wide, with its white ceramic front on show,” says Darren Taylor, managing director at Searle & Taylor. “I always suggest a sill is made from the same material as the worktop to go under the sink to mitigate water splashes on the shallow-height cabinetry beneath.”
But how about if you want your kitchen sink in the same material as your worktop? “To provide a seamless look in a space with a Silestone surface, for example, we will include a sink in the same Silestone material, together with a fabricated drainer groove,” says Darren. “A flexible alternative is to choose a stone cladding for an 1810 Axix sink, to complement the worktop.”
You may want to take into account the age and style of your house, too. “If I was tasked with designing a kitchen in a modern extension, I would review the aesthetic of the existing house it was attached to, to see what would complement it best,” says Kate Clare, founder of Loud Architects.
“If the house is Victorian or Edwardian, or even Georgian, I like to have a stark contrast with the sink design; such as stainless-steel, brass, Corian or tiled-into sinks. And if there is an entrance arch or curves internally, then a curvy sink can be a subtle but well-received design touch – an homage to the existing architecture and style.”
What type of mount should I go for?
The type of mount you pick will have a big impact on the finished look. To start with, there are inset sinks, which are a popular choice and simply sit into a hole cut into the countertop. A small raised lip around the outside helps seal the sink.
Next up, flush-fit sinks, fitted within the worktop, offer a smooth look, are easy to keep clean, but slightly trickier to install. If you like a minimal look, under-mounted sinks can attach to the worktop from below. This style of sink takes up less counter space than the above two options. However, you’ll need to have your tap mounted onto the countertop.
What sink materials are available?
The world is your oyster when it comes to choosing a material for your kitchen sink. And, while it used to be the case that sinks were all very similar – with many in stainless steel due to its durability and tough, hygienic surface – there’s now a huge variety available, to help you personalise and tailor the look.
“Kitchen sinks come in all sort of materials, including stainless steel, porcelain, fireclay, granite composite, cast iron and even marble,” says Nathan Kingsbury of Nathan Kingsbury Design. “Each material has its own pros and cons, which depend on factors like durability, maintenance and aesthetics.”
A composite, for example, is resistant to scratches and chips and makes a good choice if you’re trying to match your sink to your worktop, while copper is known to kill harmful bacteria and can make a statement.
Ceramic or fireclay sinks look beautiful, but be aware that the glaze can chip if knocked. You can match you sink bowl to your resin worktops, such as Corian. But although they’re easy to maintain, it’s worth noting they do have a low heat threshold.
Marble sinks like Carrara or Arabescato are luxurious, but will be prone to stains and scratches. Finally, copper sinks are hardwearing and age beautifully, gathering character with every use.
Is it better to have a hob or sink (or both) on a kitchen island? Click here to find out
About Post Author
