Bathroom sinks are available in a variety of styles, designs, materials, and colors. When selecting a style of sink, keep in mind the overall size of the bathroom. A small bathroom requires a small sink, but a larger bathroom can accommodate a sink of almost any size. Also take into consideration which bathroom the sink will be placed in (master bathroom, powder room, etc.), the amount of storage space needed in the bathroom, and how often that bathroom gets used on a daily basis and by whom.
Wall Mounted Sink
A wall mounted (AKA floating sink) is attached directly to the wall. Beneath the sink, the plumbing is exposed. The sink and exposed plumbing have a minimalist, industrial look.
Wall mounted sinks work best in smaller bathrooms as they leave more open space. The downside is that there is no is counterspace or storage space.
Pedestal Sink
A pedestal sink is a basin mounted on top of a pedestal. The pedestal covers up the plumbing.
Pedestal sinks work well in smaller bathrooms because it takes up minimal floorspace. The downside is that this is no counterspace or storage space in a vanity cabinet. If the pedestal is not flush against the wall, it can be difficult to clean between the wall and the pedestal.
Console Sink
A console sink is a combination of a wall mounted sink and a pedestal sink. It is a modern and contemporary look. Like wall mounted bathroom sinks, the plumbing for a console sink is exposed. There is no counterspace or vanity cabinet underneath. Instead of being supported by a single pedestal, a console sink is supported by two or four legs. Some feature a towel rack between the front two legs.
Corner Sink
As the name implies, a corner sink fits into the corner opposed to sitting along a flat wall. Corner sinks are most often seen in smaller bathrooms because they are typically smaller than regular bathroom sinks. In smaller bathrooms, corner sinks are either wall mounted or pedestal sinks. Corner sinks can also be featured in larger bathrooms with vanity cabinets and countertops that extend along one or both walls.
Drop-In Sink
Drop-in sinks (AKA self-rimming sinks) sit in a hole in the countertop or vanity. The basin has a lip that sits on top of the countertop, and it is the countertop that supports the weight of the sink. Drop-in sinks are available in several shapes, sizes, and materials. They are great for any size bathroom.
Because the drop-in sink requires a countertop to sit on, this type of sink includes counterspace. The amount of counterspace depends on the size of the sink in relation to the size of the countertop. It also includes storage area under the sink in the form of a vanity or open shelves. The downside of drop-in sinks is that the rim or lip can collect dirt, dust, and other debris.
Undermount Sink
Undermount sinks are mounted underneath the countertop. They are held in place by caulk or another type of adhesive. Because there is no protruding lip or rim, it is easy to swipe spilled water, dirt, and other debris directly into the sink. Undermount sinks are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. They work well in any size bathroom.
Vessel or Tabletop Sink
Vessel sinks (AKA tabletop sinks) sit on top of the countertop. They are reminiscent of an old washbasin. Because they sit on the countertop, vessel sinks are typically higher up than other sinks and do not require bending over as far. The sinks are shaped like deep bowls and are usually round. They are available in a variety of materials and sizes.
For vessel sinks, the faucet needs to be attached to either the countertop or the wall. It will also require a pop-up drain.
While unique looking, vessel sinks are not as durable as other types of sinks. They can also be harder clean—especially around the underside of the bowl and around the fixtures.
Semi-Recessed Sink
Semi-recessed sinks protrude from the front of the cabinet and countertop. Because they protrude, semi-recessed sinks can be pair with a shallow vanity cabinet to allow for more floorspace. A downside of this type of sink is that there is no countertop along the front to catch any spills.
Apron Sink
Apron sinks (AKA farmhouse sinks) are more commonly seen in kitchens than in bathrooms. That being said, these types of sinks are a viable option for the bathroom. Apron sinks are usually much deeper than other sinks. They are recessed into the countertop, and the front part of the basin is exposed. If you are looking for a vintage, farmhouse look in your bathroom, an apron sink might be the choice for you.
Trough Sink
While more commonly seen in public bathrooms, trough sinks are also an option for private bathrooms. Trough sinks are wide and deep. They come in a variety of sizes and can be used as an alternative to a double sink. Trough sinks can either be drop-in or wall mounted.
If you are looking to replace your bathroom sink or to remodel your entire bathroom, give us a call at Shakespeare Home Improvement Co. to get a free estimate.
For more inspiration on bathroom remodel ideas, click here.