Why We Love Farmhouse Sinks in the Kitchen

When homeowners remodel the kitchen, typically the primary intent (other than repairing structural issues) is to improve the appeal and aesthetics of the room. This is usually achieved with a little bit of paint, some tile here and there, new and beautiful appliances, and shiny fixtures. But if there’s only going to be one “up-do” in the kitchen, it’s got to be the sink station. This area can be highlighted to be the “soul” of the room with a fine-detailed mosaic backsplash, a trimmed-out window above the sink, or the best part—the sink itself. Now here’s a brief 101 on the farmhouse sink.

Farmhouse sinks are also commonly known as apron sinks or apron front sinks. Today they can be custom made to suit the homeowner’s demands, but they all basically share the same simple structural design: often rectangular in shape and deep, they jut out a short distance from the supporting cabinetry. They were popular as early as the 17th century in Britain, and the style quickly gained a solid reputation for utilitarian value and strength.

During the 1920s in the United States, the farmhouse sink was typically made out of cast iron, but today, you can have this sink made in different materials such as concrete, stone, copper, stainless steel, fireclay, and porcelain. Each unique material, design, and texture has its own look, which will provide either a traditional, modern, contemporary, transitional, or rustic feel to the kitchen. Because of the material they’re made out of and their design, they’re extremely durable. They will last a very long time, and will not be damaged easily.

These kinds of sinks were definitely made with the user in mind. Other than the invention of dishwashers and a connected plumbing system, the use of kitchen sinks has remained the same for centuries. People spend a lot of time using their sink to wash dishes, scrub produce, and for basic hand hygiene. The farmhouse sink is practical for all these uses, but the most important benefit is ergonomics. Because the sink juts out from the cabinetry, the user is closer to the sink. And since the four-to five-inch countertop gap has been eliminated, improper posture is prevented. Traditional sinks encourage a slight leaning forward, which creates strain on the back.

Farmhouse sinks also prevent damage to the cabinets because of their iconic jutted-out position. When water drips off the edge/lip of the sink, it will trickle down to puddle on the floor, rather than run down the cabinets. The larger basin space accommodates for big items such as pots, pans, and cookie sheets to be washed more easily.

We love farmhouse sinks because they’re gorgeous to look at, they’re practical and durable, and they also serve as the perfect accent piece. The costs and installation of the farmhouse sink will all be worth it when you walk into your newly remodeled kitchen with a sense of awe and luxury. Now don’t lie, you’ll also love that your farmhouse sink will induce just a little bit of coveting in the guests you invite over.