Everything To Know About Farmhouse Kitchen Sinks
Whether you’re building a new kitchen from scratch or giving your existing kitchen a little love, there are plenty of decisions you’ll need to make in order to bring your vision to life. One is what kind of sink you want to install. There are so many different options when it comes to style, finish, and function. One kind of kitchen sink that never seems to really go out of style? A farmhouse kitchen sink. A farmhouse kitchen sink can add a bit of warmth, character, personality, and nostalgia to your space, no matter what the rest of your space may look like.
Functional, timeless, and easy to maintain, a farmhouse kitchen sink is a great choice for so many different kinds of kitchens. From what qualifies as a farmhouse sink to why we love them, how to pick the right one, and more, here’s everything you need to know.
What’s a Farmhouse Sink?
Farmhouse kitchen sinks can also be called apron-front sinks. Their telltale features include a deep basin, single bowl design, and exposed front panel that usually goes a bit past the surrounding cabinets. These sinks have graced kitchens for ages, but one of the reasons they’re so popular is because they’re usually fairly deep and have just one basin (not two divided sides), which makes washing large dishes and other things a bit easier.
Nowadays, people love both their form and function and they’ve been a staple in kitchens with the rise of more farmhouse style homes over the last decade or so.
The Best Things About Having a Farmhouse Kitchen Sink
Although farmhouse sinks became even more popular along with other aspects of farmhouse design and style, you don’t have to have a farmhouse-style home in order to choose to install an apron sink in your kitchen. Here are just a few reasons why they’re beloved by homeowners and designers alike:
They’re Deep
If you’ve ever had a particularly shallow kitchen sink, you know how important a deep sink basin can be. Farmhouse kitchen sinks generally have a deep basin with plenty of space for washing and rinsing, meaning getting the dishes done is easier than ever and you won’t have tons of water splashing all over the floor or adjoining cabinets. If you love to cook or entertain, a farmhouse kitchen sink can be a real game-changer.
They’re Versatile
Farmhouse sinks come in so many different varieties. You can find some that are sleek and stainless and others that feel more handcrafted and artisan. Because the sink is pretty simple and timeless, it can be used in so many different kitchens.
They’re Timeless
There’s a reason that farmhouse kitchen sinks have been used for so long—they don’t tend to age the space like some other designs can. These sinks are a true workhorse in your kitchen and will fit in well for years to come.
They’re Durable
One of the reasons we love farmhouse sinks so much is because they’re durable and easy to use. You don't have to worry about being overly gentle with them. Most farmhouse sinks are made to be dent-resistant, chip-resistant, and non-porous, which means you can worry about cooking, washing up, and entertaining, and not about how delicate you need to be with your sink.
How to Pick the Right Farmhouse Kitchen Sink
When you’re picking out your sink, you’ll want to think about how it will live in your kitchen, how it looks, and more. Here are a few things you’ll want to take into consideration when making your selection.
The material the sink is made from: A fireclay sink is going to give you that classic glossy finish you likely think of when you think of a farm sink. They’re durable, pretty, and versatile. Stainless steel sinks fit in more modern kitchens, while copper and stone sinks can add warmth and additional textures to your space. Looking for something unique? Consider working with an artisan (handcrafted sinks are gorgeous!) or visiting a showroom so you can discuss what you’re looking for.
The size of the sink: If your space needs a small farmhouse sink, that’s something you’ll want to know in advance to ensure a perfect fit. Understanding if you need to order something custom (either larger or smaller than standard sizes) can save you serious headaches (and maybe some time—delivery delays are serious bummers—and money) later on.
If there’s a single basin or double: One large basin gives you plenty of room for washing larger items, while a double basin can give you a little extra flexibility if you’re doing several tasks at once.
Working with a designer: It can be really worthwhile to work with a professional when selecting finishes, products, materials, fixtures, and more for your space. Professional designers can have access to a trade account (which can mean a lower price), discount codes, limited-time events, price-matching, supplier-driven discounts, and more. Plus, it can help you avoid costly buyer’s remorse returns and the like. They may also have extra insight into if any irregularities you see are normal characteristics of the artisan process, natural material variations, or something that you need to flag to the shop or supplier.
The estimated delivery window: It might not seem like something that makes a huge difference when it comes to picking out a sink, but it is worth it to clarify when your sink may be delivered. If you’re dealing with lengthy delays or stock issues that the supplier may know about in advance, it’s best to be prepared.
How to Style a Farmhouse Kitchen Sink
If you’re going to install a farmhouse sink in your own kitchen, here are a few ways you can make it look its best:
Add brass fixtures to complement the sink and add a touch of luxury to your kitchen.
Use natural stone countertops to suit the aesthetic of the sink.
Opt for warm wood tones to go along with the rustic-traditional feel of the sink.
Depending on the materials and styling, a farmhouse sink can seamlessly blend into just about any kind of kitchen. Whether you’re focused on function, feel, or general aesthetic, this longtime design favorite can make your kitchen feel more like home.
Looking for more design and styling tips? Check out our post on how to style a fireplace here.
Looking for more about what to do in Franklin? We’ve got you covered!
FAQs
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You’ll need to plan ahead and know that you’re going to use a farmhouse sink relatively early on in the design process because you’ll need to select the cabinets to fit accordingly. Installation options generally include undermount or flush-mount set-ups, so it’s a good idea to work with someone who’s familiar with apron sinks so they can properly fit and support everything.
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The relatively easy maintenance is one of the selling points for a farmhouse sink. Use mild dish soap and a soft cloth for daily cleaning and then make sure to consider the material of your sink if you need deeper cleaning.
Copper patinas over time and some stones and natural materials will age or include minor variations for a more lived-in look. Knowing how your sink will live in your home helps ensure you’re confident with your selection.
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Sure! You’ll likely need to work with a professional to help with a bit of cabinet modification, however. It shouldn’t take too much, but it’s likely not as simple as just swapping one sink for another.
