Geelong Tiles & Bathware take us through the 5 main types of sinks and their best features to help you choose one that’s best for you!
Choosing a kitchen sink is arguably the most important part of designing your kitchen.
First and foremost, your sink must be functional. The sink is the literal workhorse of your kitchen and should work with you to make your everyday tasks easy.
Secondly, your sink should also look good. Simple as that.
With a plethora of sinks available out there, we thought we’d take you through the 5 main types of sinks and their best features to help you choose one that’s best for you. Let’s go!
Inset Sinks
First up we have inset or top-mount sinks. These sinks are easily the most popular style on the market. As the name suggests, these sinks are installed on top of the benchtop, and feature a lip to support it. The lip of the sink is then sealed around the edge to ensure it remains waterproof.
The best thing about inset sinks is that they come in an array of shapes, sizes, and configurations to suit your space. From single to double bowl sinks, and those with a drainer, inset sinks are also super easy to install and suitable for all types of benchtops.
Today, inset sinks are much slimmer than the traditional pressed edge sinks you’re probably all familiar with. Not only does the slim design allow the sink to sit flush with your benchtop, but it also reduces the amount of gunky build-up over time.
GT&B Fave: GT&B Select Single Bowl Stainless Steel Sink
This single bowl sink from our GT&B Select range is the perfect option for a busy household. The generous size allows for easy cleaning of pots and pans, which we love. Fit with a millimetre thin profile and brushed stainless steel finish, this sink will sit perfectly in any kitchen.
Undermount Sinks
Second to inset sinks in popularity are undermount sinks. Installed below the benchtop, undermount sinks create a seamless surface, making it perfect for cleaning. Let’s be real, cleaning ability is always first on the checklist, so undermount sinks tick that box instantly!
If you are considering undermount sinks for your kitchen, it’s important to note that the cost to install undermount sinks is higher than inset sinks as the cut-out for the stone is larger and the edges require buffing. But don’t let this deter you – we think the positives far out-weigh the initial installation costs!
One of our favourite things about undermount sinks is the ability to insert a dish rack for your dishes to dry after washing. No one wants their dishes creating a centrepiece in their kitchen, so this is the perfect way to get them off the benchtop and tucked away.
GT&B Fave: Schock Double Bowl Granite Undermount Sink in Polaris
With stunning crisp lines and a silky-smooth finish, Shock’s quality German made sinkware has been created using state-of-the-art composite Nanogranite® materials. It offers exceptional strength and durability, stain resistance, and antibacterial properties.
Drainer Sinks
You really can’t go wrong with a sink and drainer combination. It’s a classic fan-favourite, and over the years has received a serious glow-up. Most drainer sinks currently available are much more modern than their previous counterparts. Often made of highly polished stainless steel, new drainer sinks feature a matte brushed stainless steel finish for ultimate sophistication.
Drainer sinks also offer great functionality with the option of left or right-hand drainers to suit the configuration of your kitchen. The drainer also keeps your benchtop dry by channelling any water on the surface directly into the sink.
Just like inset sinks, some drainer sinks feature a slim profile and sit flush with the benchtop when installed, making them as aesthetically pleasing as they are functional. Available in single and double bowl variations, these sinks allow for ease of use and can make washing dishes an absolute breeze.
GT&B Fave: ABI Interiors Ontario Double Bowl Sink with Drainer in Brushed Brass
Combining beauty and functionality, the Ontario sink is the ultimate statement item for your kitchen. The Ontario also comes with two matching sink wastes and grids to protect the bottom of your sink. Pair it with brushed brass tapware to create a luxurious feel.
Fireclay Sinks
Whether you have a traditional or modern home, creating a statement in your kitchen is easy with a fireclay sink. Often referred to as farmhouse sinks, they are heat and impact resistant and are also resistant to cracking, chipping, and staining, making them perfect for heavy duty everyday use.
For all you entertainers out there, the generous size of fireclay sinks allows for easy cleaning of larger pots and pans after a long day of cooking and serving. Like with all sinks, they come in different sizes, bowl types, and even feature patterns on the front if you’re after a more traditional design.
GT&B Fave: Shaws Ribchester Double Bowl Sink
The beautifully crafted Shaws Ribchester sink is an iconic double bowl Butler sink with a distinctive rounded, ribbed front. Handmade by Master Craftsmen using the same traditional methods since 1897, you can be assured your Shaws sink is completely unique and of the highest quality.
Integrated Sinks
Last but not least, we have integrated sinks. Probably the most luxe and stylish option out there, integrated sinks create instant wow factor in any kitchen. From concrete or terrazzo to marble, Corian and stainless steel, integrated sinks can be created from an array of materials to fit any space and style.
The beauty of integrated sinks is the unique nature of their design. With the ability to carve or mould materials into any design, you can rest assured you’ll end up with a bespoke sink for your home.
With its single-piece construction, an integrated sink also makes cleaning up a breeze. Say goodbye to any gunky build-up around your sink and wipe away crumbs and water easily. So, if you’re looking for a seamless, easy-maintenance design feature in your kitchen, look no further than an integrated sink.
GT&B Fave: Glogauer Strasse Kitchen by Mar Plus Ask
We absolutely adore this kitchen designed by the architecture duo Mar Plus Ask. Located in a one-bedroom apartment in Berlin, this kitchen is a minimalist’s dream. The large integrated concrete sink at the end of the island bench and is the clear focal point of the space.
So, there you have it; our breakdown of the 5 most common sink types and their best features. While it may seem overwhelming, start with what works best for you and don’t let any trends influence your decision. Our friendly designers will work with you to help you find the perfect sink for your kitchen today.
Words: Geelong Tiles & Bathware
About Geelong Tiles & Bathware
Since 2007 Geelong Tiles & Bathware retail store has serviced the local people of Geelong, the Surfcoast & Melbourne.
Housing Geelong’s largest selection of quality tiles and tapware from all around the world under one roof, showcased in a beautiful spacious environment, they are sure to help you find the right look & inspire you.
Their showroom at 17 West Fyans Street, Newtown, Geelong boasts thousands of items on display with something for every project & budget.
Thanks to Geelong Tiles & Bathware for supporting ICM Geelong.