Everything You Need to Know About Farmhouse Sinks

 
 

The farmhouse sink – also known as an apron sink – is recognized for its wide and deep basin and has gone through a revival over the last several years. As kitchens continue to become large, open gathering spaces for families, the farmhouse sink adds a touch of classic charm while also serving as the perfect hiding spot for dirty dishes.

Because there are so many different varieties, materials, price points and installation requirements for farmhouse sinks, it’s very important to work with an experienced team who can guide you through the entire process.

 

Native Trails / Source: Instagram

 
 

A Brief History of the Farmhouse Sink

Farmhouse sinks date all the way back to the 1600s before homes had running water. The original use of the farmhouse sink was more for the holding of water. People would fill up the deep basin with water for bathing, cleaning, washing dishes and cleaning clothes. Farmhouse sinks became a staple throughout European homes in the 17th and 18th century. The original designs surfaced in Britain and Ireland and they were known as the London and the Belfast (Native Trails).

 

Native Trails / Source: Instagram

 

The main difference between the two was an overflow feature that farmhouse sinks in Ireland had as opposed to the ones in Britain, mainly because water was easier to procure in Ireland at the time. Farmhouse sinks in Britain traditionally had a shallower basin with no overflow so that water could be conserved.

Modernized styles are made with a variety of materials, making these sinks practical, durable and an attractive fixture for every kitchen.In addition, they come in many different styles including classic and contemporary, and can also come as workstations with several features built in.

 

Julien Fira Fireclay Kitchen Sink / Source : Jarrett Design

 

Single Basin or Double Basin Sinks

Deciding on whether to go with single basin or double basin sinks, also known as single bowl or double bowl sinks, is an important decision. The trend over the last several years has been to move away from double basin sinks. Double basin sinks were very popular before dishwashing machines became more common in households. Having two basins allowed people to keep dirty dishes in one basin, while the other basin was used to rinse the clean dishes.

Pros of a single basin farmhouse sink 

  • It provides more space for washing bigger kitchen items like pots and pans

  • It’s ideal and more aesthetically pleasing for smaller kitchens

 

Native Trails / Source: Instagram

 

Pros of a double basin farmhouse sink 

  • Ideal for those who don’t have access to a dishwasher and need to separate clean from dirty dishes

  • Ideal for those who prefer to wash dishes by hand

  • It makes garbage disposal easier as you can use the disposal on one side of the basin

 

Shaws of Darwin / Source: Instagram

 

Farmhouse Sink Materials

Knowing what sink material works best for your kitchen and overall aesthetic can be a daunting task. Our in-house team of consultants expertly curate our entire selection to ensure you’re getting only the highest quality from leading brands. Read on as we go over the pros and cons of some of the most sought-after farmhouse kitchen sink materials.

 Fireclay Sinks

Extremely popular, timeless, elegant and charming. Fireclay sinks are made from clay and glaze being fused together at high temperatures.

 Pros:

  • Highly durable and resistant to chips and cracks with proper care

  • Resistant to acids and scratches

  • Timeless, classic and elegant

Cons:

  • Very heavy so proper installation is required with extra support

 

House of Rohl / Source: Instagram

 

Stainless Steel Sinks

Stainless steel sinks are classic, and a good quality stainless steel sink is long lasting and looks beautiful.

Pros:

  • Durable

  • More lightweight than other sink materials

  • Coordinate easily with other finishes

Cons:

  • Can scratch or dent

  • Water marks are more visible

 

Julien / Source: Julien

 

Natural Stone Sinks

Natural stone sinks are beautiful and are cut from a single boulder adding a touch of exclusivity. There are many different stone sink options such as granite, marble, limestone, concrete and more.

Pros:

  • Highly durable and heat resistant

  • Exclusivity as no two sinks are alike and cut from a single block of stone

  • Timeless, classic and elegant

Cons:

  • Easily stains and requires higher maintenance

  • Requires resealing every few years to prevent stains

  • Heavier in weight and requires extra support for installation

 

New Haven Farmhouse Sink / Source: Stone Haven

 

Copper sinks

Copper sinks are an excellent choice for your kitchen or bathroom due to its natural antibacterial property. Copper sinks have a beautiful, timeless look.

 Pros:

  • Copper is a living metal which will naturally patina

  • Unique and durable

  • Will not rust

  • Easy to clean

  • Naturally kills harmful bacteria

Cons:

  • Needs to be polished to maintain the original finish

 

Paragon / Source: Native Trails

 

NativeStone sinks

NativeStone sinks have a similar look to traditional concrete sinks but are more lightweight. They are handmade using natural and sustainable materials and are sealed with NativeStone Shield for the ultimate protection.

Pros:

  • About 40% more lightweight than standard concrete

  • Crack and stain resistant

  • Low maintenance

Cons:

  • Sealer needs to be refreshed every 3 to 5 years

 

Farmhouse Double Bowl / Source: Native Trails

 

Let our expert team walk you through all of the important details to make the vision of your ideal kitchen a reality. Request an appointment and let us inspire you today.