Farmhouse, undermount or workstation? Choosing a kitchen sink

Undermount

The sink mounts beneath a solid-surface counter such as granite, quartz or marble, so crumbs wipe straight in. It needs a counter that can be cut and polished, so it doesn't suit laminate. The faucet mounts in the counter, not the sink.

Farmhouse (apron front)

The front of the sink is exposed and becomes part of the cabinet face. It needs an apron-front sink base, usually about 3 in wider than the sink: a 33 in sink typically goes in a 36 in cabinet. Fireclay is the classic material; stainless and stone are also available. Check the exact cut-out drawing, because fireclay sinks vary slightly in size.

Workstation

A workstation sink has a ledge inside the bowl that holds a cutting board, colander and drying rack. It turns the sink into a prep surface. Most are stainless undermount sinks of 30 in or larger.

Materials compared

• Fireclay: glossy, hard-wearing and heavy. It may need extra cabinet support.
• Stainless steel: forgiving and quieter with sound pads. A lower gauge number means thicker steel; 16 and 18 gauge are common.
• Natural stone: beautiful and individual. It needs sealing and gentle cleaning.

Single or double bowl

A single large bowl fits sheet pans and stock pots. A double bowl lets you soak in one side and rinse in the other. Many cooks now choose one large bowl and add a separate prep sink on the island.

Before you order

• Confirm the sink base cabinet width and the depth available.
• Ask your fabricator for the sink's template or cut-out drawing.
• Choose the faucet at the same time, so the counter is drilled correctly.
• Plan for a garbage disposal if you want one, and check the drain position.