Wash Basins: 6 Styles to Suit Every Bathroom
09 January 2024
So you’ve decided it’s time to upgrade your bathroom. Maybe the countertops are looking a little worn or the fixtures have seen better days. Whatever the reason, choosing a new wash basin is one of the most impactful changes you can make. But with so many styles to choose from, how do you decide what’s right for your space?
Stylish and Sleek: Undermount Basins
Undermount basins are stylish, sleek, and seamless. If you want a minimal, modern look in your bathroom, an undermount basin is an ideal choice.
Easy to Clean
Undermount basins are installed under the countertop, so their rimless design makes them easy to wipe down and keep sparkling clean. Without a lip or edge, there’s nowhere for dirt and grime to hide. You’ll never have to scrub stuck-on gunk from the edge of the sink again!
Open feel
Since undermount basins sit below the countertop, they create an open, airy feel in the bathroom. Without a bulky rim surrounding the sink, they maximize your countertop space and make even a small vanity feel more spacious.
Premium style
Undermount basins convey a sleek, high-end style. They’re a favorite of professional designers and custom home builders. If you’re going for a luxurious, spa-like vibe in your bathroom, an undermount sink is really the only way to go.
While undermount basins may cost a bit more upfront, their stylish good looks, easy maintenance, and space-saving design make them well worth the investment. For a bathroom that’s high on function and flair, you can’t beat an undermount basin.
Space Savers: Wall-Mounted and Pedestal Basins
If space is limited in your bathroom, wall-mounted or pedestal basins are great options to consider.
Pedestal basins are freestanding, so they don’t require a countertop and sit directly on the floor. They’re ideal for small bathrooms since they take up minimal space. However, the lack of countertop means limited storage. Look for models with a narrow pedestal to maximize floor space.
Wall-mounted basins are installed directly onto the wall, so they don’t take up any floor space at all. They’re perfect for ultra-compact bathrooms or when you want a minimal, streamlined look. The downside is that they also offer no countertop space, so you’ll need alternative storage solutions.
When choosing either pedestal or wall-mounted basins, consider:
• Size - Compact basins, around 24 to 30 inches wide, work well in small bathrooms.
• Shape - Round or oval basins have a smaller footprint than rectangular types.
• Material - Vitreous china and ceramic are affordable, durable options. Cast stone or metal can provide an upscale look.
• Faucet holes - Look for single hole faucets to save space or faucets specifically for wall-mount or pedestal basins.
• Storage - Consider installing a wall cabinet, shelving, or recessed shelves to make up for lack of countertop area.
• Plumbing - Make sure there are water supply lines in the wall behind the planned installation location. Wall basins in particular may require rerouting plumbing.
While pedestal and wall-mounted basins aren’t for everyone, they’re innovative space-savers that can add style to even the most compact bathroom. With some smart storage solutions, you can have an attractive vanity area without sacrificing floor space.
Classic Elegance: Vessel Basins
Vessel basins add a touch of elegance to any bathroom. These stylish basins sit on top of the counter, rather than being installed underneath. Their raised profile showcases their material and shape, making them a focal point.
Style and Shape
Vessel basins come in a variety of styles to suit any decor. Round, square, rectangular, and oval shapes are popular and classic. You can also find unique shapes like teardrops, waves, and asymmetrical bowls. Glass, stone, ceramic, copper, and wood are common materials that provide visual depth and texture. The possibilities for style and material combinations are endless.
Simple Installation
Vessel basins are extremely easy to install since they simply sit on top of the counter. No cutting into the counter or complex plumbing is required. However, their raised profile means you’ll need a taller faucet to comfortably use the basin. Faucets specifically designed for vessel basins typically have a spout height of at least 7 to 9 inches.
Easy to Clean
The raised, open design of vessel basins makes them very easy to clean. Their smooth, non-porous materials do not trap dirt or grime, and you have full access to wipe down the entire basin. Any splashes, spills or spots are quick to wipe away, keeping your bathroom sparkling.
A Statement Piece
If you want to make a stylish statement in your bathroom, a vessel basin is a perfect choice. Their striking shapes and materials transform a simple sink into a work of art. A vessel basin focal point can inspire the design and decor for the rest of your bathroom. For a minimal, spa-like space or a bold, luxurious bathroom, a vessel basin adds a touch of elegance.
Conclusion
So there you have it, six popular wash basin styles to consider for your bathroom remodel. Whether you want a sleek minimalist look, rustic farmhouse feel, or traditional style, there’s an option for you. Remember, the most important thing is choosing a basin you genuinely like—after all, you’ll be using it every day.
Don’t worry too much about what’s currently trendy or what your neighbors have. Go with your gut and pick a wash basin that makes you happy each time you use it. In the end, that’s what really matters and will make all the time and money spent on your bathroom renovation worthwhile.