Bathroom Sink Styles For Every Application

Your bathroom sink can set the tone for your entire bathroom. In fact, when it comes to the many choices, you'll make when remodeling your powder room, guest, or master bathroom, choosing your sink should be early on the list.

You need to take several considerations into account when making your choice. Your bathroom sink is one fixture that will be used every day, so it's essential to consider your lifestyle, the aesthetics of your design, is it for guests, or your private bathroom space, along with the type of sink you like, the material its crafted out of, and of course the size of your bathroom space.

Let's explore some of the considerations you'll need to examine when choosing the perfect sink for your guest bath, powder room, or master suite.

First, Consider The Practical: Define Your Needs

Before you get into the type of sink, the material, and the style, it's important to step back and define your needs. Think about your lifestyle and family. How will your sink be used, and who will be using it? For example, a stylish, delicate glass vessel sink is more suited for adult use. If you have young children who will be using the space, it might be a better choice to go with something a little more functional – and durable.

Another primary consideration is the space you have available. If you're remodeling a powder room or half bath where space is at a premium, you don't want to choose a sink that will take up too much space. If you need additional storage, you will also want to consider this. Make sure that your choice will have enough deck space to place toiletries upon. This is especially important if you are considering a wall mount or pedestal sink which will not have a surrounding countertop and no additional storage like a vanity.

Finally, think about maintenance. A bathroom sink is an item that you will live with for many years. One of the most important factors to consider is the care that is required to keep it looking good for years. Some of the cleaners you currently use may not be appropriate for some types of sinks and could even damage the finish. It's essential to consider this aspect before you make what can be a significant investment. Make sure you're willing and able to care for your investment properly!

Choosing the Right Type of Bathroom Sink

When it comes to bathroom sinks, you have a wide range of styles and material to choose from. Let's take a look at the most common styles of bathroom sinks available.

• Pedestal

A pedestal sink is perfect for powder rooms or guests baths where space might be limited. They come in a variety of styles from traditional, or “vintage,” to more modern styles that feature sleek, sophisticated lines.

• Wall Mount

Another great choice when space is limited, a wall mount sink features a basin that is hung from the wall at the height and location of your choosing. This style has been gaining in popularity as manufacturers are offering many new, attractive, and innovative designs. They are also an excellent choice for universal design applications.

• Under Counter

An under counter bathroom sink provides clean lines and a distinctively modern style. That's the beauty! They also free up usable counter space, and since there is no rim to catch debris, they're also one of the easiest bathroom sink styles to keep clean.

• Countertop

This style is also sometimes referred to as “drop-ins” or “self-rimming” sinks. They fit into a variety of countertops, and they are the easiest to install. You'd typically find a countertop sink in a high-traffic family bathroom.

Under this category, you also have integral countertop sinks. These combine the basin and countertop together in a single piece. This “one-piece” design provides a clean, sleek look, and because there are no crevices, they're another style that incredibly easy to keep clean.

Finally, a semi-countertop sink is a great style to maximize the usable space in a small area. Because the basin extends beyond a narrow ledge or vanity, a semi-countertop offers a large basin, while preserving valuable floor space.

• Above Counter / Vessel Sink

Both versatile and stylish, vessel sinks sit on top of the countertop, console, or cabinet and are a great way to add a unique focal point to your bathroom design. Best suited for master baths and powder rooms, especially in a contemporary or modern design. Remember, because this style of bathroom sink sits above the countertop, the vanity, console, or cabinet needs to be lower than average to allow for easy access. This style looks great with tall vessel faucets, or wall mounted fixtures.

• Corner Sink

If you have a smaller space with an empty corner, a corner mount sink is a great option. They're available in both pedestal and wall-mounted versions and save space by fitting into an unused corner.

Popular Bathroom Sink Materials

The material that your bathroom sink is made out of is important for several reasons. First, it's an instrumental feature when it comes to style and décor. It's also crucial in determining durability and usability. When considering materials think in terms of aesthetic style, and how the material will hold up with years of daily use.

Popular Materials Include:

Cast Iron – Heavy and durable, it's typically coated with enamel. It's easy to clean and comes in a variety of colors. Chipping is possible if hit with a heavy object and can lead to rust on the exposed metal.

Porcelain, Vitreous China, and Fireclay – These clay-based ceramics create a durable sink that's easy to clean. Can also be chipped or cracked if hit hard enough.

Glass – Many vessel sinks are made of glass. Glass is an incredibly flexible material that comes in a range of colors, patterns, and finishes. Tempered glass is typically used for its resistance to cracking and shattering. Glass needs daily maintenance to prevent hard water staining.

Metal – There are several choices when it comes to metal sinks. Popular options include stainless steel, copper, and brass.

Stone – Stone sinks come in a vast array of styles including vessel sink and can be made from many different species of stone. Polished stone has a smooth finish which will show water spots over time, especially darker varieties. Stone sinks can require sealing to protect it from permanently staining.

Concrete – One of the newest materials, concrete sinks can be custom made, or purchased pre-made. They are typically heavier than other types of sinks so additional support may be required. It is porous and so should be regularly sealed and comes in a range of colors to fit any décor.

Solid Surface – Solid sinks are an extension of the countertop. They're easy to clean and have a “renewable” surface, making them an excellent choice for a bathroom sink that the kids frequently use.

Choosing the right bathroom sink can be a challenge. By defining your functional and aesthetic needs, and educating yourself on the many choices available, you can narrow down your options before you hit the showroom. Your design-build contractor or interior designer will have in-depth knowledge of the choices available and can help you to pick the perfect bathroom sink.

If you're planning a bathroom remodeling project in the greater Tuscaloosa area give the design pros at Toulmin Kitchen and Bath a call at (205) 366-0807. Let us help you to design the bathroom you've been dreaming about!

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About Toulmin Kitchen & Bath Design - We're West Alabama's award-winning, premier kitchen and bath showroom. We're experts who are known for a design-build process that makes the construction process stress-free. Contact us to schedule an appointment for a design consultation.