Everything for the kitchen sink: Styles and materials abound

Kitchen sinks have become a style category all their own. Gone are the days of basic choices: single- or double-bowl, cast iron with porcelain enamel finish or stainless steel.   

To see the forest for the trees, Teresa Wilson, a longtime North Carolina sales representative for Ferguson, with bath, kitchen and lighting showrooms nationwide, offers input to builders, interior designers and consumers. She says the hands-down favorite kitchen sink style is modern farmhouse.

“It is the most popular kitchen sink trend we are presently seeing in our market,” she explains. “We can fulfill that look by using cast iron, fireclay, stainless steel, marble or concrete/stone in an apron-style design.”

Although the terms “modern” and “farmhouse” in the same phrase may seem contradictory, a farmhouse-style sink is generally deeper than under-mount or top-mount sinks and protrudes flush with the cabinets on either side instead of having countertop space in front. Current versions sometimes resemble original, historic looks, but most are modernized and sport sleek contemporary lines.

This style is trending for both aesthetic and utilitarian reasons; today’s home chefs like them because they hold large pots and pans.

“The modern farmhouse apron front fireclay sink trend is one that will not go away fast because of its quality and classic beauty,” says Wilson.

Another desired sink design is integrated quartz or marble due to seamlessness with countertop looks. Additional sink material options include bamboo, concrete, composite, stone, copper and fireclay.

“Although the concrete/stone sinks bring texture to the kitchen, the easiest to clean and maintain is fireclay,” says Wilson. “Fireclay sinks are aesthetically pleasing and durable, made with a fused glazing fired at a much higher temperature than cast iron.”  

Each material requires special cleaning considerations. Stainless steel is easy and durable but will rust if steel wool is left in or on it. Avoid citrus- or vinegar-based cleaners on concrete. Coffee grounds, tea bags, some spices and other materials can stain porcelain cast iron. Do not use stiff scrubbers on copper. And, ammonia is not a good idea for cleaning fireclay.

To play it safe, ask questions when purchasing and make sure the sink comes with specific cleaning instructions.