Utility. It sounds like such a stiff word, but the truth is, utility can lead to flexibility. Utility and flexibility are two highly desirable attributes when it comes to kitchens, especially when it comes to your kitchen sink. Now, if that has you thinking about overwhelming stainless steel boxes with clunky faucets, think again. Today’s next-level kitchen sinks have solved the utility vs. beauty conundrum with models that are highly efficient and look great. (Photo courtesy of faucetmag.com)
Basin Basics
Design has evolved significantly from just having a basic porcelain rectangular hole and a standard tap in the kitchen counter. Everyday life today demands a lot from your kitchen. Luckily, we have so many conveniences that help expedite meal planning and prep time. We even have a variety of ways to make meals in 30-minutes or less, but what good is that if the mess takes an hour to clean up? Un-think your sink by remembering it does more than wash dishes and hands. Keeping prep confined to the sink area makes clean-up of leftover meal ingredients much easier and streamlines washing of non-dishwasher items such as steak knives and specialty glassware.
One sink; numerous functions. Prolific sink series photo courtesy of KOHLER.
More Is More
If you have ever felt limited by a sink you chose for style underestimating what you would actually need it for, you are not alone. And sometimes even a standard double-bowl sink has its drawbacks. So if you are building or planning a re-model, take some time to assess what you need from your sink. If you’re the family that does most of the big dinner/holiday hosting, you may wish to consider a model that offers more.
This fireclay kitchen sink offers a colander add-on for easy rinsing and draining of food and a custom cutting board that offers a convenient surface for prep and cleanup. Photo courtesy of Bocchi.
While many current kitchen plans do boast an additional sink in an island across from the main sink area, you may wish to reconsider how placement affects the utility and efficiency of this area. The option above locates that extra sink right next to the main sink, but does so beautifully so the area does not look overwhelming but functional; clean and well organized. Being able to hide dirty dishes from guests under the covered sink portion is also an enormous benefit!
Specialty & Lifestyle Options
The stainless steel sink above provides a washing, rinsing and drying area; especially practical for after-party cocktail and wine glass clean up. Photo courtesy of FRANKE.
Innovations have allowed homeowners to choose from a variety of accessories that turn what once was a place to just wash dishes into a total meal prep, clean up, and entertaining center.
Enhanced sink workstations are available for the most discerning of home chefs. These smart designs can then be re-configured for the entertaining portion of your evening. Photos courtesy of FRANKE.
Your kitchen design professional can provide the latest news on kitchen sink and workstation innovations. Call 314 Design Studio today to schedule a no-cost consultation (410) 643-4040, or feel free to drop-in at your convenience. Visit us online at www.314designstudio.com