Picking the right sink for your bathroom can be an overwhelming choice. The myriad options can leave your head spinning. Sleek undermounts, space saving pedestals, and colorful ceramics embedded in vanity tops parade across webpages luring you into each of their sink webs. Elegant ones beckon you, charming ones, well, charm you, and unique ones make you stop in your tracks and pay attention. By the end, you have made up your mind – then unmade up your mind — over half a dozen times.
How many different types of sinks can there be?
Actually, there are seven. The vessel, drop-in, undermount, vanity top, wall-mounted, pedestal and console. Each have a different look although all have the same function. Let’s take them one-by-one…
Vessel Sink. The vessel type sink sits on top of the countertop, just like a bowl sits on a table. The bottom of the sink is often flush with the countertop, but it can sometimes be sunk an inch or two beneath the surface. These types of sinks are aesthetically pleasing. Their artistic features are second-to-none and are made from all different materials – from copper to glass to ceramic.
Drop-In Sink. Also called a self-rimming sink, this type of sink has an outer rim that sits on top of the counter and holds the sink in place. The drop-in is one of the most common types of sinks that you will see. Why? Because it is super easy to change out without replacing the entire countertop. Although they are considered more “standard,” there are gorgeous drop-in sinks available.
Undermount Sink. This type of sink is installed underneath the counter. A precise hole must be cut in the countertop to accommodate this type of sink. This means that they are harder to change out without replacing the countertop. But the undermount is incredibly popular due to its sleek appearance and modernity.
Vanity Top Sink. A single piece countertop has the sink built-in. The vanity top is the other most common form of bathroom sinks. This is because full vanities allow for so much more counter space. If you choose the vanity top, go with one that is about an inch bigger than your vanity to create a slight overhang.
Wall-Mounted Sink. This type of sink is exactly what its name implies – it is a sink that requires no vanity and can be installed directly on the wall. These types of sinks are great for bathrooms with minimal space. Like the drop-in, these sinks are simple but there are some with lovely designs that can be found.
Pedestal Sink. The pedestal is a free-standing sink that is supported by a column. This is another great option for small bathrooms. The pedestal, like the vessel, is often chosen not just for utilitarian purposes but for its aesthetics as well. They can be modern, rustic, colorful, or simple – they run the gamut.
Console Sink. This sink is wall mounted and sits on two or four legs. It is as simple as simple gets. The design element in console sinks is actually found in its legs. Gold, silver, brass – they tend to pop.
So, now you have a primer on the different styles of bathroom sinks. The thing is, the sink that you choose is important. The bathroom sink is an integral part of the design that seamlessly ties your look together and helps you reach your design goals. Happy choosing!
