Trending Sink Styles
Once you've picked out your theme and overall design for your bathroom and kitchen, the next step is to pick out your fixtures. One of the biggest fixtures for these rooms is the sink. Here we take a look at some of the most common sink styles from HomeDepot's Types of Bathroom Sinks and Types of Kitchen Sinks articles.
Bathroom Sinks
Drop-In Sink
Easy-to-install drop-in bathroom sinks, sometimes called self-rimming sinks, fit through a pre-cut hole in the countertop, with the sink rim resting on the surface to finish off the look of the lavatory.
Undermount Sink
Undermount sinks have clean lines and emphasize the look of the countertops. They are mounted underneath the bathroom countertop and have no rim between it and the sink.
Vessel Sink
Vessel sink, sometimes called countertop sinks, are one of the most popular bathroom sink styles that rests directly on a counter. These can make a bold design statement. These bathroom sink faucets can be wall-mounted above a vessel sink but more commonly rise up from the countertop.
Pedestal & Basin Combo
Pedestals inks offer a range of styles from Victorian to contemporary. Because the basin is perched on a pedestal instead of a countertop, this type of bathroom sink is a good choice for smaller half baths.
Console Basin & Leg Combo
Console sinks can be freestanding or wall-mounted and supported by two and sometimes four console sink legs. This type of bathroom sink has no countertop but some models have a shelf underneath for storing necessities.
Wall Mount Sink
Wall-mount sinks can bring a contemporary look to your space or be used when extra floor space is needed. Wall-mounted sinks can be a good solution for situations where wheelchair accessibility is a consideration.
Corner Sink
Corner sinks are a great solution for small bathrooms where space is constrained. These compact sinks are typically wall-mounted but pedestal models are available.
Bathroom Vanities with Tops
When additional storage is necessary, a bathroom vanity is the solution and there are many types of bathroom vanities with tops to complete the space. Some vanities are designed to accommodate vessel sinks. Other varieties have a more uniform look. These usually arrive fully assembled and ready to install.
Kitchen Sinks
Drop-In Sinks
A drop-in sink is one of the most popular sink types. Also called a top mount sink, it literally drops into a pre-cut hole in the countertop. The edge of the sink rests on the counter for stability.
Fairly easy to install, a drop-in sink works well with almost every style of countertop and can be replaced without disturbing the countertop or relocating plumbing.
Most drop-in sinks are self-rimming (held in place by their weight or fastened with clips and screws), though some are rimmed (more recessed into the countertop with the joint covered by a metal rim).
Undermount Sinks
Undermount sinks are installed under the counter, making them ideal for use with solid surfaces and granite.
They do not have an edge that rests on the countertop, so cleanup is easier when it comes to undermount vs. drop-in sinks.
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Farmhouse Sinks
Farmhouse sinks, also knows as apron sinks, feature a wide expanse and deep bowl with an exposed front. They are available in a wide range of materials.
This style allows for easier cleaning of larger items like pots and pans.
A certain type of base cabinet is typically required to support it. Some styles can be retrofitted to your existing cabinets.
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Wall-Mounted Sinks
Wall-mounted sinks save floor space since they do not require a cabinet or base for support. Typically, installation requires a reinforced wall to support the weight of the sink.
They are available in a variety of materials, including porcelain, stainless steel and cast iron.
They are used in businesses, but because they can be installed at wheelchair height, they are a good choice for improving accessibility in homes as well.
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All-in-One Sinks
One of the most convenient options, all-in-one sinks are a complete kitchen sink unit including a single or double bowl sink as well as a faucet.
Some models will also feature a pull-down sprayer, soap pump, sink grid or strainer. They will typically work with any countertop surface.
Workstation Sinks
Ideal for busy kitchen, either home or restaurant, a workstation sink converts your kitchen sink into a work/prep station.
Many include custom accessories like cutting boards, drying trays and colanders. Most workstation sinks have an integrated ledge to hold accessories.
Commercial Sinks
Commercial sinks are typically used in restaurants or hospitality environments. They are extremely durable and are usually significantly longer and deeper than a standard residential kitchen sink.
The sink usually has a prep surface built in which can help expand your counter space and protect your counter surfaces by giving an alternate place to prep food.
They are normally made of stainless steel but are available in other materials in both under-mount and drop-in installation types.
Bar Sinks
A bar sink has a much smaller footprint than a standard sink, allowing it to be installed in spaces where a secondary sink is useful, such as kitchen island or home bar.
Usually made of stainless steel, they are easy to keep clean and sanitized. Allows for prep of fresh ingredients in isolation from the main sink to help prevent cross-contamination