4 Bathroom basin styles to know before you reno
They say that kitchens and bathrooms are where the money’s made (and should be spent) on a good renovation or new build. And one of the most important things to consider in any bathroom update or build is the humble basin.
A good choice can tie together and elevate a design, while being functional and easy to clean. To get you started on we’ve taken a closer look at 4 bathroom basin styles you should know before you reno.
1. Countertop
Countertop basins, sometimes called drop-on sinks, sit on top of the counter (obviously). They’re often circular, but they come in all shapes, sizes and finishes to suit your space.
+ They’re the easiest to install of all these options, and can add an attractive, sculptural design element to your counter tops. They also save a little space under the countertop, which can be great if you’re lacking storage.
– On the other hand, countertop basins can be slightly more expensive than some other options. And because they don’t sit flush with the counter (and there may be a narrow gap between the wall and the sink) they can be more difficult to clean.
Our favourite example of this type of basin is the beautiful Gareth Ashton Byron Clearstone.
2. Freestanding
Freestanding basins aren’t very common in Australian bathrooms, but in the right setting they can look amazing. Like the name says, these sinks are one unit that function as a stand (installed in your bathroom floor) and a sink.
+ They can be a real design statement, and while the sink itself may be more expensive, the install and material costs may be lower overall since they don’t need to be mounted on a cabinet. They can also be great for creating a sense of space, and showing off your floor since they take up less space than a vanity.
– On the other hand we generally don’t recommend going for a freestanding sink if you lack storage – since they’re floor mounted and generally don’t include any drawers.
Keen on a freestanding sink? Check out the elegant, timeless Burlington Edwardian 80cm basin and stand.
3. Inset or drop-in
Inset or drop-in sinks are sinks that are placed down into a cabinet top after a hole is cut to accommodate them. If you choose well, and they’re installed correctly a good inset or drop-in sink can look fairly seamless – although there may be a slight lip on the counter top.
+ These are incredibly easy to install making them perhaps the most cost-effective choice. They’re also very popular, which means that there may be more colours, styles and sizes available if you go for an inset.
– If you go for an inset sink there may be a small rim where dust and grime can collect. This will be smoothed with sealant, but over time that sealant can fail and cause problems.
Inset sinks are a great, budget friendly option for most people. The Gareth Ashton Park Avenue MK2 is a fantastic option, with modern, premium styling and a non-premium price tag.
4. Undermount
Undermount sinks are installed beneath the countertop with the edges underneath or flush with the countertop. This creates a seamless look where your counter flows directly into your sink – no gaps or edges.
+ The obvious benefit of undermount sinks is the seamless, slick look. This seamless appearance also makes undermount sinks easier to clean, since there are fewer edges where grime and moisture can accumulate (and since you can wipe directly into the sink).
– While these sinks look great, they don’t come cheap. Typically installation is more complex, and must be completed by a professional – extra support may be required underneath the basin and these may only work with certain countertop materials like granite or quartz.
If you’re going for premium or modern minimalism, undermount sinks are a brilliant option. We recommend checking out a few options at your nearest Abey showroom, but we recommend the Gareth Ashton Park Avenue undermount.
