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.
Will kitchen islands go out of style? The answer is no. The kitchen island is often the focal point in the kitchen and one of the most sought-after features in a kitchen renovation; in fact, it is one of the most versatile areas in the kitchen. Need a place to do some homework? How about a family dinner or brunch? Looking for a surface where you can spread out when cooking? Some extra storage for large pots and mixers would be nice, too. All of this and more can be accomplished with a kitchen island; some might even call it a mini kitchen within the kitchen. This flexible workstation can be created to reflect any style, accommodate any size, and suit any need. Today, we want to answer some common questions about the kitchen island, explore the benefits, and explain why it will never go out of style.
As the COVID-19 pandemic slowly comes to an end, you may be ready to update your home and make a few changes. Perhaps being stuck inside during lockdowns gave you time to identify areas that needed cleaning, upgrading, or other home improvements. If you want to start rebuilding your house but aren’t sure how to get started, see how these tips can help, brought to you courtesy of Greenbrook Design.
Walker Woodworking When space is limited, it is valuable and greater thought is invested in creating a design that maximizes square footage to provide a functional space for the homeowner. Both manufacturers and designers alike are continuously thinking of new ways to give their clients the things they need, but using less space. One such item is the Murphy bed, yes, the one used in multiple comedy routines, but it has evolved into a stylish piece, yet remains as functional as ever. It is also comparable in price point to a traditional bed. Could the Murphy bed be the solution to your limited space problem? Let’s unpack exactly what it is and how it can help give you additional room in your home.
Walker Woodworking What to do when you don’t have the luxury of square footage? How can you create storage when there is not a lot of room, to begin with? Can you make small spaces work for you? These are good questions that we have helped our clients answer numerous times. While it may present more challenges than a larger home, it is possible to have the necessary storage for you to keep everything you need on hand. Small is not bad; in fact, it comes with multiple benefits, and a good design can help you maximize the space you do have to build a home that is exactly right for you. Let’s talk about some creative storage solutions for small spaces.
Walker Woodworking We always say details matter, and that goes beyond a project. Your home is filled with details that tell your guests who you are and what matters to you. Artwork, pottery pieces, and furniture are just a few things that give homeowners a chance to show off their style. Another area is hosting, and tablescapes have become a beautiful, fun way to share your own unique design choices with family and friends. Whether it is for a small gathering to enjoy time with those you love or to celebrate a special occasion, there are many ways to create the perfect look. By combining different colors, patterns, or materials, you can create a tablescape that will dazzle your guests, whether you prefer an elaborate or simple design.
Walker Woodworking 
Walker Woodworking