Choosing the Right Vessel Sinks: A Modern Response to Old Wash Basins
Vessel sinks are just a modern version of old wash basins. In the old days, one would use the wash basins next to a pitcher of water. One would rinse and wash with the same water emptying the basins when done. Nowadays, these sinks are plumbed with a drain so that there is no need to empty them like in the old days.
Vessel sinks are so versatile. Aside from being functional, they are also elegant looking and great conversational pieces. They are truly works of art. They are very popular in renovating bathrooms, not only in contemporary homes but in traditional homes as well. They can be used in bathroom remodel (which is the most common place to use vessel sinks), kitchen (2nd sink for hand and vegetable washing only and not for heavy duty dish and pot washing), and as a sink for your wet bar.
It is very important that when choosing the right vessel sink for your home to take a few factors into consideration. I have enumerated some below:
Vessel Sink Style:
Choose the style that will go with the design and architecture of your home.
1) Contemporary: If you have a contemporary home, there are glass and ceramic vessels that show clean contemporary styles to go with your home d�©cor. A sample of this is using frosted glass vessel sinks that come in different shapes and colors. Some are whimsical and look like Murano glass with different mixture of colors. If you are using glass counters as well, highlight them by using a light underneath or directly above the sink. Your guest would be in so much awe they would not want to leave your bathroom.
2) Traditional: If your home is more on the traditional side, like Victorian or Craftsman style, you have a lot of option to choose from. You can try a ceramic vessel sink with floral design for your Victorian powder room. While in a Craftsman style home, you can try glass with deep color more on the earthy side like golden brown. Using a vessel sink made of stone or concrete goes well with the Craftsman and Old World design.
Vessel Sink Material:
1) Glass: This is probably the most popular vessel sink material. It is mesmerizing when you see through the glass while the water is running. They come in many different colors and designs to choose from. Always make sure to clean it up after each use, especially after brushing your teeth, making sure that the toothpaste marks are wiped off so that it will not look sloppy. The price range for a simple glass vessel sink can start from the low $100s but the hand blown with unique artistic designs can cost up to $2,500 a piece.
2) Ceramic/China: This is my second favorite material; I actually already bought a couple of plain white ceramic bowls for my daughter’s bathroom. When my husband and I have the time and after we have saved enough money for a new counter and floor to do her bathroom, we will replace her old sinks with these new vessel sinks. Vessel sinks made of ceramics are easy to maintain and clean. They also come in different shapes and colors.
3) Stone: Vessel sinks made of stone are probably the most durable of all materials. Onyx, marble, granite, concrete, and travertine stones are some of the stone materials you can choose from. They can be used in all types of homes, from contemporary to craftsman style homes. They can also be very expensive, since they are made from expensive natural materials.
4) Stainless Steel: Although not as popular as the three mentioned above, this is a good choice to use in your wet bar or sink next to your stove. The finish will go with your kitchen and bar appliances.
5) Metals (Copper, Brass, Bronze, and Nickel): Copper is probably the most popular metal finish vessel sink available in the market. The dark brown patina looks good against the travertine and tumbled marble counter tops and backsplashes.
6) Wood: No one may have ever thought of using a wooden material for their sinks but yes, they do make them. They come with finishes that are water-proof. Wood needs special care and attention, but once properly maintained it can be very rewarding especially if you use it in bathrooms less frequented or in a spa-like retreat.
Vessel Sink Shapes:
1) Round or Oval: This is the most common shapes for vessel sinks as in the old wash basins that are round. This makes washing your face easier.
2) Square: Used in smaller counter spaces, square vessel sinks can be used with part of the sink installed underneath the counter.
3) Rectangle/Oblong: This is a good shape choice if you have only one sink in a shared bathroom like in a kid’s bathroom. Two kids can brush their teeth or wash their hands using this single elongated vessel sink.
4) Shell Shaped/Tapered: Used in whimsical theme and children’s bathroom, this shape can add beauty and charm.
5) Triangle: Although not as popular as the other shapes, this is a good choice for contemporary modern homes for a unique take on sinks.
As you can see there are many options to choose from. If you really want to have something that is eye-catching and unique, have it custom-made. There are many artisans that can help you design your own unique vessel sink. Of course, as in any custom-made pieces, this comes with a higher price tag. Whatever size of budget you may have, there are plenty of options to choose from. Keep in mind that the custom or hand made pieces are expensive as well as can be very delicate in nature.
Please read also my article: How to Choose the Right Vessel Faucets
