If using a specialty kitchen counter material, such as soapstone, or creating a rustic or custom kitchen, consider the use of a stone sink to finish the kitchen design. Stone sinks are available in multiple finishes and materials, and even be constructed from the material being used to create the counter. The use of one can turn a kitchen design into something truly extraordinary.
Pre-Made Stone Sinks
Many companies offer ready made stone sinks. While a few may be available in an undermount style, the apron front kitchen sink style is the most popular use of stone in sinks.
Ready made stone sinks are available in polished black granite for modern kitchens, and in rustic, hand carved, decorative front sinks for rustic, farmhouse style kitchens. Ready made stone sinks tend to be more neutral in color and finish, as they will need to blend with a variety of palettes. Look for colors such as black, gray, tan and in some cases, Blue Pearl.
Pre-made stone sinks will typically offer a polished or honed interior for ease of cleaning. Exteriors can be created to match the interior, or to offer a hand chiseled and rustic appearance. Some companies will hand carve decorative images into the front of the sink for an extra, elegant touch.
Custom Stone Sinks
There are two types of custom stone sinks available for use in kitchens. The first is made by many of the same companies that make the ready made sinks. In some cases, these companies will be willing to create a sink to specific dimensions, or with a specific design or finish. Colors are still limited to what they have in stock, although they may have other stones available they don’t typically use in the kitchen sink design process.
For more color options, and for a potentially less expensive stone sink, consider having the fabricator installing the granite or soapstone counter make the sink as well. This is done by piecing together pieces of the same slab that is used for the counters, and finishing the front and edges. The five pieces of stone will be held together with an epoxy resin, and can be made in nearly any size.
Finishes in this case are more limited; a chiseled edge may be available, but honed and polished interior and front may be the limits of what the final look can be. In this case of a black granite, however, if the fabricator offers options such as flaming or brushing the stone, this same technique may be available for the front of the sink as well.
Caring for a Stone Sink
Like any building material made of natural stone, stone sinks will need to be sealed and cared for to prevent staining, scratching and etching. The stone should be sealed during installation, and periodically thereafter. Well sealed stone should bead the water up off of its surface as if it is waterproofed; when the water stops beading, it is time to reseal the stone.
Some harsh detergents and acids, such as those found in tomato sauce may break down the seal more quickly, requiring more frequent treatment. To prolong the seal and make the sink’s finish last as long as possible, use a gently dish washing liquid, such as Ivory Soap or Dawn liquid, avoid any soaps that are harsher, or have lemon added to them.
A stone sink can add a subtle detail to the kitchen design that gives it a polished and rich appearance. Consider adding one to set the kitchen design apart from the crowd, today.
Sarabeth Asaff - Sarabeth Asaff is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for cooking and good food. Growing up in the kitchen of her Lebanese ...
