While it may not be as exciting as choosing the colour for your kitchen walls or the design of the backsplash tiles, selecting a sink is still an important decision. After all, what is a kitchen without a sink? Considering it’s one of the most frequently used elements in the home, the sink is generally more valued for its function than it is for its looks. But that doesn’t mean it can’t look good while performing its job. With the wide offer of sink designs and materials, you can now enhance both the functionality and beauty of your kitchen. To make the right choice, here’s what you need to consider.
Top-mount Vs. Under-worktop Sinks
There are generally two different kinds of sinks – top-mount and undermount or also called under-worktop. Top-mount sinks are considered easier to install and more affordable. They fit into a hole that’s cut into the worktop, with the faucet being mounted on a ledge at the back of the sink. Visually, they aren’t a very attractive choice as they feature a distinct lip around their edge where gunk can get trapped and which makes them stand out from the countertop.
On the other hand, under worktop kitchen sinks, as the name implies, fit under the countertop with their lips in the same level as the edge of the countertop, creating a continuous flow. This gives you the advantage of being able to wipe crumbs and other waste directly from the counter into the sink with a single swipe as there’s no lip in the way. Visually, under worktop kitchen sinks look very sleek and polished making them ideal for a contemporary, minimalist kitchen.
Materials
The material the sink is made of can influence how durable it is and how it fits your kitchen’s style. For instance, stainless steel sinks are a pretty common choice due to being durable and easy to clean. However, it’s important to note that they don’t suit all interior styles equally. A stainless steel sink doesn’t generally fit well in a traditional or rustic kitchen, but it does look great in a modern kitchen or where there’s a need for some industrial vibe.
On the other hand, if your kitchen has a vintage look, a porcelain sink can be the ideal match. Plus, they are available in different colours which is a big plus if you want to add a distinctive touch to your kitchen. Unfortunately, porcelain sinks are prone to staining from use and can easily chip if something heavy falls on them, so you need to be careful. However, there are also composite sinks available which look very similar to porcelain ones while also being more durable and easier to maintain. Their only downside is that they can be very expensive.
