December 19, 2011

Selecting the Right Sink

One of the hardest working elements in any kitchen is the sink. Some even categorize it as an appliance and it certainly is one of the points of the kitchen work triangle. So it is only fair that a lot of thought be given to this decision.

Waypoint Living Spaces kitchen in style 410S in Maple Honey

A top mount sink in a composite material is shown with Waypoint's style 410S in Maple Honey. Top mount installations are generally considered to be more traditional in style.

Sinks come in a variety of materials but stainless steel is preferred right now. Other choices are solid surface, composites, enameled cast iron, even copper.  Solid surface sinks have the benefit of being installed seamlessly into the countertop. More commonly sink installations are either under mount or top mount. Each has advantages. Under mount has a cleaner more contemporary look. Many believe that under mount sinks are easier to clean but they still have a lip that can collect dirt. The other thing to consider is that replacing a damaged under mount sink can be all but impossible.

Large single bowl under mount sink. Cabinets: Waypoint's style 650S in Maple Honey.

A large single bowl under mount sink in stainless steel is a great choice for many homeowners. Cabinets shown are Waypoint's 650S in Maple Honey.

Sink configurations vary but my favorite is a large single bowl sink. Double bowl sinks are a holdover from the days when dishes were hand washed. One sink was for washing and the other for rinsing. We hardly ever do that today. What is needed is a vessel large enough to hand wash those items too large to put in the dishwasher: things like cookie sheets, large mixing bowls and roasters.

Waypoint style 510S in Maple Auburn Glaze

Double bowl sinks provide two basins for washing and rinsing dishes. The installation is under mount in a granite top. Cabinets shown are Waypoint's 510S in Maple Auburn Glaze.

We can’t overlook farm (or apron front) sinks as part of the many choices available today. For more information, check a previous blog on this topic by clicking here.

Of course many kitchens have auxiliary sinks to supplement the main sink. This secondary sink (usually a smaller single bowl) should be located far enough away from the main work area to allow a second person to work at it without interfering with the primary cook. This secondary sink can be used for preparing beverages or, outfitted with a garbage disposer, it can become the prep sink. It gives you one more chance to thoughtfully outfit the kitchen.

A kitchen is a significant investment and each element of the project deserves to be thoughtfully considered.

Connie Edwards CKD, CBD, Waypoint Living Spaces