Which Sink for My Kitchen? Things to Know About the Sink.

Quickly washing the salad, filling a pot with water for pasta, or pouring out cold coffee – we all use the sink every day, probably without much thought. Therefore, it's even more worthwhile to think carefully about it before buying a kitchen. Am I exclusively using the dishwasher and only need a water source? Or do I frequently cook for many guests and often handwash good pans and inherited gold-rimmed dishes? The size, shape, and style of the kitchen also play a significant role in the selection process. To make your decision a bit easier, we've compiled all the essential information about the sink area for you.

Installation options

TOP-MOUNT SINK

The most well-known and cost-effective option is the top-mount kitchen sink. Since the sink's edge is on top of the countertop, it can be easily installed and combined with other elements.

FLUSH-MOUNT SINK

When the sink is installed at the same level as the countertop, it is referred to as a flush-mount installation. This option is not only easy to clean and very hygienic, but it also complements the clean lines of the kitchen design.

UNDERMOUNT SINK

Depending on the material used, it can either blend elegantly into the design or create a beautiful accent. In any case, it seamlessly integrates into the overall design. However, it is suitable only for countertops made of stone, glass, or composite materials.

FARMHOUSE SINK

The farmhouse sink is commonly used in rustic kitchen designs, but it is now available in a highly modern appearance as well. It is also practical when a particularly deep sink or a higher work area is needed.

Shapes

When it comes to sink shapes, there is a lot of room for design. A rectangular or square basin with an additional draining area is quite classic, if space permits. However, round or oval sinks are also popular and work well as single basins, especially in small kitchens. Sometimes, a corner solution makes sense, in which case a trapezoidal sink is often used. Personal needs should also play a role in the choice of shape. For instance, if a lot of handwashing is done, a double sink makes sense, and you can also consider a combination of a large and small basin. Those who frequently use large pots or baking sheets will appreciate an XXL sink or an exceptionally deep one.

Materials and Colors

Stainless steel and granite composite are probably the most common materials for kitchen sinks. They are known for their appealing aesthetics, easy maintenance, and durability. Composite materials, also known as engineered stone or composites, offer a wide range of colors and surface finishes. However, stainless steel is now available in many elegant color variations as well. For example, Nolte offers them in an extraordinary anthracite look. Ceramic is also being used as a material more frequently. It is scratch-resistant and easy to maintain, but hard impacts can leave marks.

Useful Extras

With some additional features, you can further enhance your sink area. For instance, a drain remote control allows you to pull the plug without reaching into dirty water or food scraps. Particularly practical is a faucet with a pull-out spray hose, making it easy to fill large pots or watering cans with water. If your sink is located right in front of a window, you should consider a faucet that can be lowered or tilted. For a special wow factor, consider hot water faucets or sparkling water taps: with the push of a button, you can get either boiling hot water or filtered, cold water with or without carbonation directly from the tap. Both options are not only sustainable but also save time and space. With the right accessories, your sink becomes a multifunctional center: insertable cutting boards expand the workspace, custom-fit strainers simplify meal preparation, and matching soap dispensers and scrub brush holders contribute to an attractive overall appearance.

Sink and Kitchen Planning

The sink is an essential component of the Nolte kitchen work triangle, as we have already described in a separate article. Therefore, ergonomics also play a significant role in the sink area: Are the people working in the kitchen taller or shorter? Are they left- or right-handed (important for the orientation of the draining area)? It is also interesting to consider the location of the water supply and whether hot water is produced, for instance, by a tankless water heater or a boiler. Additionally, the sink cabinet should not be overlooked. With the right division and organization, you can create additional storage space here. It is especially practical to place flexible waste separation systems directly under the sink. This is where most kitchen waste is generated, and it can be disposed of directly without additional trips.

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The sink - washing area and water source

Knowledge about the sink area