kitchen sinks - where to start?

Ahh, the kitchen. The heart of the home. A place to create, connect, and indulge. This post will focus on one of the most essential pieces of this space - the sink! Today’s sink styles and functions are endless. You can wash your hands without even touching the fixtures, prep food and dry dishes in the same space; or have a sink that makes a fashion statement! Let’s explore the different styles and materials of kitchen sinks to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

Let’s talk bowls….

Single bowl sinks will give you the most room for large pots and pans. Many brands have an integrated ledge around the top of the bowl and interchangeable accessories for an instant work station when you need multiple functions.

Stainless steel large single bowl sink with insert for drying rack and cutting board. Design by Interiors by J.Curry

Stainless steel large single bowl sink with insert for drying rack and cutting board. Design by Interiors by J.Curry

Kohler Whitehaven undermount single-bowl farmhouse sink. Enameled cast iron. Design by Interiors by J.Curry.

Kohler Whitehaven undermount single-bowl farmhouse sink. Enameled cast iron. Design by Interiors by J.Curry.

Helpful tip: an acrylic coating looks like enamel, but is more prone to stains and melting. Go for enamel!

Large single bowl cast iron apron front sink with tons of space! Design by Interiors by J.Curry

Large single bowl cast iron apron front sink with tons of space! Design by Interiors by J.Curry

Helpful tip: soft corners offer easier drainage.

Blanco Profina fireclay large single bowl apron front sink with integrated lip. Design by Interiors by J.Curry

Blanco Profina fireclay large single bowl apron front sink with integrated lip. Design by Interiors by J.Curry

Helpful tip: a farmhouse style offers more space than a standard rectangle. Fireclay is ultra durable and easy to clean!

Blanco Silgranit large single bowl undermount sink. Design by Interiors by J.Curry

Blanco Silgranit large single bowl undermount sink. Design by Interiors by J.Curry

Helpful hint: composite sinks, like the Blanco Silgranit sink, is durable, and resistant to scratches, stains and heat. Scratches can even be buffed out.

This kitchen also has a second single bowl prep sink. Added convenience! Blanco Silgranit sink. Design by Interiors by J.Curry

This kitchen also has a second single bowl prep sink. Added convenience! Blanco Silgranit sink. Design by Interiors by J.Curry

Double bowl sinks are great for separation and organization, and give you the luxury of having two sinks in one. They come in a 50/50 split or 60/40 split option.

Helpful tip: a double bowl undermount with a disposal and sprayer is perfect for someone who does more chef-style cooking, chopping, and washing pots.

Triple bowl stainless steel undermount sink. Design by Interiors by J.Curry

Triple bowl stainless steel undermount sink. Design by Interiors by J.Curry

Helpful tip: triple bowl sinks with an industrial faucet and rinse basket makes working in the kitchen all day simple! Having a rubber undercoating will deaden the sound of running water or clattering dishes.

Let’s talk function….

We all want an attractive kitchen, but it’s also important to ask yourself, what type of sink do I need? Are you constantly using large pots and pans or do you simply rinse your plate and let the dishwasher take care of the rest? Or do you have limited space and need to be more of a minimalist? Check out these options below:

More is more with this countertop-length stainless steel sink! Plenty of room for scrubbing, washing, and spraying with this work space.

Helpful tip: stainless steel is great for those who use lots of heavy metal or harsh chemicals.

Have a large family or love making big messes in your kitchen? Why not have two sinks? Two sinks makes it easier for a group to utilize the kitchen and allows more room for dirty dishes.

Just because you have limited space does not mean you have to sacrifice style! Smaller sinks can still make a big impact and provide the function you need.

Helpful tip: an undermount sink with a disposal makes cleaning scraps off of the countertop a breeze.

The lip around a drop-in sink is great for setting down items you don’t want touching the countertop. photo from Roundecor

The lip around a drop-in sink is great for setting down items you don’t want touching the countertop. photo from Roundecor

Helpful tip: the National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends most homeowners/renters only need a basic 22” x 24” drop-in sink.

Is fashion over function more of what you are looking for? No problem! Check out these dreamy sinks below:

photo from @designlovefestinstagram

photo from @designlovefestinstagram

Helpful tip: colored sinks cost 15-40% more than neutral-colored ones.

Johnathan Adler for Kohler in Annapolis Blue. Such a dramatic pop!

Johnathan Adler for Kohler in Annapolis Blue. Such a dramatic pop!

Helpful tip: copper and enamel are more prone to chips and stains.

photo from MR Direct

photo from MR Direct

Specialty materials and shapes can add interest to a simple kitchen.

Blanco Silgranit double bowl D-shaped sink

We hope you have found this post both helpful and inspirational. There are many components to a kitchen and the sink is a major part of it. There can be a lot to consider, but just make sure the sink you choose has both the functionality you need as well as the aesthetic appeal that you want. With all of the options out there, you are sure to find one that suits both all of your wants and needs! :)

Happy Holidays, everyone!

-Jessica and Michelle