Design Notes
Though not as glamorous as a new Wolf Range, a sink is a heavily used kitchen asset that needs careful consideration.
The sink is the most essential appliance in your kitchen!
If you think about it, your kitchen sink handles a lot of chores. In fact, it is the most used appliance in your kitchen. It can even be argued that when you’re remodeling the kitchen, selecting your kitchen sink is one of the most essential choices you’ll make. It’s a decision that will affect your daily life for many years to come! We are here to help you navigate the many options available for kitchen sinks.
Manufacturers offer sinks made using various materials and in several different styles to fit every need. Materials used for a kitchen sink include:
- stainless steel
- porcelain over cast iron
- soapstone
- man-made materials.
Kitchen sink types and styles are available to fit every need. From multi-bowl sinks to undermounts, farmhouse sinks, and more, sinks are among the lowest-priced components of a kitchen remodel. However, some high-end models can carry four-digit price tags. Fortunately, several well-made, affordable models are on the market.
Choosing The Right Kitchen Sink
When choosing your kitchen sink, consider the size of the room, how you’ll use your new sink, and finally, your aesthetic choices. For example, large multi-basin models can overpower a smaller kitchen.
For kitchens less than 150 square feet, the National Kitchen & Bath Association, an industry trade group, suggests a standard 21” single bowl sink. You can consider adding a double or triple bowl model if your kitchen is larger. Whatever size and configuration you choose, you must select your desired type of mounting. This is both an aesthetic and a practical decision. You’ll also need to specify the number of holes you’ll need in the countertop sink deck. This depends on your faucet and chosen accessories, like spray hoses, soap dispensers, or garbage disposal air switches. Finally, you’ll need to decide on a color. A colored sink can be a dramatic accent, but remember, you’ll typically pay 30% more for any color other than white.
Mounting Options Defined
Under-mount or over-mount? This simply refers to the top edge of the sink. Will the rim sit on top of your countertops, or will it be attached and glued in from underneath (under-mount)? Most homeowners today choose to use an undermount sink due to its aesthetics.
However, there are 2 instances where you must choose an overmount sink or a farm-style sink. If you choose laminate or wood tops, overmount sinks will prevent water damage.
Choosing Your Kitchen Sink Style
Once you’ve chosen a kitchen sink type, it’s time to consider the shape and style of your new sink. Let’s look at a few options.
- Farmhouse Sink: Most are large, single-basin sinks, but they are also available as double basins. They sport a distinctive apron front, which provides a wonderful old-world vibe. Ensure you’re comfortable with this design statement since you’ll be living with it for a long time.
Available in different materials, porcelain or ceramic sinks offer a wide range of color choices to fit any décor. Read about some of the benefits it brings to the kitchen here.
- Standard under-mount sink: Standard under-mount sinks come in various materials and design options, including single, double, and triple bowls. Many new models feature angular corners near where the sink joins the countertop but offer rounded corners near the bottom, where most of the cleanup happens. If you’re looking for a sleek, modern look, this style might not be right for you.
Upgrade options:
- Built-In Drainboard: Great for draining dishes and drying washed vegetables, this is a wider sink that can take up a lot of counter space.
- Workstation: Sinks have improved greatly in the last few years with the introduction of the Galley workstation. A ‘workstation’ usually has accessories available that fit with the sink, such as cutting boards and built-in strainers. Several brands offer these additional accessories, and some of these sinks can be up to seven feet wide. See examples of this amazing workstation here.
Choosing Your Kitchen Sink Material
Kitchen sinks are available in various materials. Your choice depends on your needs, personal style, and budget.
Sink Materials include:
- Stainless Steel: Classic, easy-to-clean stainless steel can be formed into any shape, is nearly indestructible, and looks great in any environment. Stainless steel can scratch, but if the sink is brushed stainless steel, it can usually be buffed out. Many manufacturers offer a wire tray placed at the bottom of the sink to prevent scratching.
- Porcelain: The traditional kitchen sink material, porcelain, looks authentic in a kitchen with a vintage style. If you love color, the choices are practically endless. Unfortunately, porcelain can chip, and metal pans can leave scuffs, making them difficult to clean.
- Granite Composite: Made using granite particles and polymers, these sinks resist scratches and chips. Granite sinks are a good choice if you have hard water. They don’t show spots. Be careful, though; lighter colors can stain and may require special maintenance.
- Natural Stone: Soapstone is the most common choice, and a natural stone sink can exactly match your countertop, giving your kitchen an authentic period look. However, natural stone sinks can be costly and are prone to scratches and chips.
Home is the one space that is dedicated not just to being our place to crash, but also to connection. It’s where we gather with those we love, spend time together doing things we enjoy, and express ourselves through decorating. How we decorate our home matters—it sets the tone, reflects our personality, and makes our space feel warm, inviting, and personal. Adding a few seasonal touches not only personalizes your home but also prepares it for the changing weather, helping it function more efficiently. Even a few simple adjustments can transform your space, and many pieces can be reused year after year. Gather inspiration from decorating blogs like Better Homes and Gardens and start creating a home that feels just right for every season.
Walker WoodworkingDesigning a kitchen involves various elements that come together to create a space that is not only functional for your lifestyle but also a reflection of your personal taste. That’s why elements like color, hardware, and lighting are important—but when it comes to the working parts of the kitchen, buying appliances requires a little extra thought. It’s essential to determine which appliances will work best for you, where they should be positioned within the layout, and even how many you’ll need. These decisions can significantly influence your overall design and impact the choices you make during the initial planning phase of your renovation.
Greenbrook Design 
Walker WoodworkingWhen decorating your home, the last thing you want is to look like a cheap knockoff of something elegant. That is why it’s essential to choose your furniture and accessories wisely. You don’t want stuff that will make your space look drab or outdated. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to spruce up your digs without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll look at simple ways to make your home look elegant on a budget.
Walker Woodworking The kitchen is one of the most functional areas in the home, as it serves a multitude of needs. It is where we cook for our family, host special gatherings, and celebrate the wins. This is why including these kitchen design features matters, as it means creating a kitchen that works for and with you, leaving you more time for the things that truly matter. Take the time to evaluate your space and the things you do every day, so that when you attend your design meeting, you can share exactly what you need with your designer, and they can tailor your space to meet your needs. We also invite you to visit our showroom located in Shelby, NC, and browse our numerous displays.
Walker Woodworking 
Walker Woodworking