Within the world of kitchen interior design, kitchen sinks are usually what we always leave for last. For most, it is a secondary accessory for what anything is worth. But in reality, we use it several times every day together with the countertop. So it is essential to choose the best sink well.
On the other hand, most think that the “sink” boils down to a jack, knight, and king. If there is not much to choose from, go.
And yet, nothing is further from reality. There are hundreds of models that vary in size, materials, shape, style, depth, and quality. There are sink types (like those used to wash clothes in the past), stainless steel for an industrial look, or integrated into the countertop itself, such as the Cosentino kitchen sinks, which go perfectly with Silestone® countertops.
In addition, this element can have a great impact on decoration. You are looking for a minimalist aesthetic making it go unnoticed. You prefer it to add personality and character to the space by giving it prominence.
So to shed some light, let’s go with them!
What material to choose for the kitchen sink
Stainless steel
This material is the most frequent and favorite choice due to its low cost. But this is not always the case, since the different options in quality and manufacturing greatly increase its price.
In any case, they are the most famous on the market for their good results (since they offer resistance to shocks and high temperatures ) and for their aesthetics, given their modern and hygienic appearance. Something that characterizes them and differentiates them from the others is their ease of cleaning. Although in return, they are prone to scratches and the appearance of limescale, which dulls the distinctive shine of the steel over time.
At the design level, it is very versatile, with many possibilities in terms of shapes, sizes, and compositions. Being able to adapt to any style thanks to the “neutrality” of the material, although it falls short in terms of color variety.
Resin sinks ( Solid Surface)
Kitchen sinks are based on minerals and synthetic resins such as Corian ® including those under the category of Solid Surface. The advantage has of allowing total integration with the countertops, creating a sense of continuity throughout the surface.
Being a completely moldable material, creates all kinds of shapes and textures, providing design, aesthetics, and many decorative possibilities. In addition, they present a wide range of colors, being an option for those who prioritize design above all else.
On the other hand, they have a pleasant texture and a clean aesthetic, making them more attractive than those made of conventional stainless steel.
However, its main disadvantage is its high price. They are among the most expensive on the market. And is usually a somewhat delicate material, being vulnerable to bumps and scratches, as well as direct heat, which does not happen with stainless steel. Therefore, if we opt for a kitchen sink in this material, we must be somewhat more careful than with a battle one.
Minerals and recycled materials
Sinks made of minerals and recycled materials also offer good resistance to knocks and scratches, as is the case with those made of steel. They also have the advantage of variety like texture and color.
The material is the same as that used in the countertops, as is the case with Silestone® by Cosentino. So sinks and countertops stay together. So that they appear to be one piece, or different shades can be chosen to create contrast.
Ceramic and synthetic stone
Ceramic materials are the order of the day in kitchen countertops and are beginning to be so in sinks as well.
In this case, we can find two types:
- The classic ceramic sinks ” type pile or sink “, usually shiny, which usually protrude from the countertop and “bite” the furniture. It is very fashionable lately and perfect for lovers of vintage or shabby chic
- Those with the most modern aesthetics are based on innovative ultra-compact surfaces that are highly resistant and easy to maintain (type Dekton ® ), similar to those found today in kitchen countertops.
Both offer good resistance to scratches and heat. Of course, the sinks of this material are very hard. So we must be careful not to damage our tableware due to its rigidity.
Its main disadvantage, on the other hand, is that if they suffer very strong blows (a pot that falls, etc.), they can suffer notches, in addition to having a higher price than other options.
Marble is a resistant material but difficult to maintain, as it is delicate and stains very easily. In addition, although it is resistant to heat (it does not burn), it does not tolerate direct heat very well. So care must be taken not to leave hot pots or pans just removed from the hob directly in the sink in case leave a fence.
If it is also polished, you have to be careful with those liquids that contain acids, as they can damage it and make it lose its shine. In any case, marble sinks have one more option to consider because of their ability to integrate perfectly with the countertop.
Choosing the shape and design of the kitchen sink
Single bowl or double bowl sink
The most popular are those with a single bowl, with or without a drainer. Basically due to a matter of saving workspace, as the sink requires a hole underneath, it limits us when it comes to placing drawers or storage elements.
However, if you have a larger kitchen or if you use the sink to wash your dishes daily, it is advisable to opt for a sink with two bowls or a single bowl but very wide to have more space to scrub.
With cap
If the sight of the stink bothers you in the kitchen, you can opt for kitchen sinks with a lid, which hides the hole for the bowl. It acts as an additional countertop space to be able to work better and prepare your recipes more comfortably.
Choose a top model that matches your countertop or opt for a wooden top, a more classic alternative. In any case, the idea is for it to be a sliding, removable, and shock-resistant cover.
Mini sinks
When we have little space available in the kitchen, the most functional thing is to select a small kitchen sink. So we will get the most out of our countertop.
In this sense, small sinks, either with a single bowl or with a bowl and a half, will be a perfect alternative as an emergency solution.
Countertop or undercounter
Undermount sink
Undermount sinks are those installed with the rim just below the countertop. In this way, they leave the entire work area free and offer visual cleanliness and continuity to the surface that those that go on the countertop do not achieve.
They are made of the same material or different from the countertop. It can be perfectly integrated into it or as a separate piece.
Countertop sink
Countertop sinks, on the other hand, are fitted with edges above the countertop. They are the most common sinks and are essential when the countertop is made of a material that does not tolerate moisture well, such as melamine or Formica.
As you can see, the kitchen sink is not a simple accessory. There is a whole world of design and technology behind it, with multiple shapes and sizes. The important thing when choosing it is the decorative style that we want to achieve. The use that we are going to give it, the budget that we have, and the type of countertop chosen to get the most out of it. It also combines perfectly with the rest of the elements of the kitchen.
Choose a nice and practical kitchen sink, and you’ll see how you end up loving washing up.
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