Boost Your Kitchen Space with a Dynamic Corner Sink and Drainboard
Adding a corner sink to your kitchen design is a great way to maximize space. The triangular shape fits perfectly into an unused corner, opening up room for more cabinets or countertops. Corner sinks come in handy styles like farmhouse, apron-front, and double bowl. With the addition of an angled drainboard, you can gain even more functional work surface.
When planning for a corner sink installation, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. But with some thoughtful planning, you can enjoy the benefits of increased space and create a stunning focal point in your kitchen.
Choosing the Ideal Corner Sink
There are several corner sink options to browse when selecting your model. Keep the look of your kitchen design in mind as you explore different materials, depths, and configurations.
Popular Corner Sink Styles
Farmhouse sinks are a favorite style for corner installations. These deep, wide sinks have an exposed apron front for a rustic, vintage look. Farmhouse sinks range from 7 to 10 inches deep.
Apron-front sinks also have a flat lip that sits on top of the countertop surface, emphasizing the sink as a design feature. This style is a little more low-profile than a farmhouse sink.
For added functionality, many homeowners opt for a double bowl corner sink. Having two basins side-by-side provides extra space for washing dishes, preparing meals, and maximizing every inch.
Choosing a Material
Stainless steel is the most popular material for kitchen sinks due to its durability, longevity, and timeless look. Enamel coated cast iron is also common, offering a glossy and classic porcelain style.
Composite granite sinks provide the look of stone with added resilience. Copper and bronze sinks are eye-catching options that develop a lovely patina over time.
Considering the Size
Start by looking at the size of your existing corner base cabinet to determine dimensions. Common corner sink sizes are 30 by 30 inches or 33 by 22 inches. Sinks with an apron front are often 24 inches deep.
Farmhouse, single bowl sinks may range from 33 to 36 inches on each side. Double bowl corner sinks could be 60 inches wide in total. Always account for extra depth with an apron front or farmhouse sink.
Adding a Drainboard for Function
A drainboard is an incredibly useful addition next to a kitchen sink basin. This angled section provides necessary extra space for drying dishes, rolling out dough, and other prep work.
Benefits of Adding a Drainboard
Without a drainboard, you’ll need to rely on dish racks or limited countertop space for drying. Adding one allows you to keep cleaned dishes out of the way.
In addition to its drying function, a drainboard creates space for task like chopping vegetables, making pie crusts, and handling other messy prep work close to the sink.
Positioning Your Drainboard
The drainboard will be an angled section positioned on one side or corner of the sink basin. Allow at least 12 to 18 inches of clearance for it to be functional.
Having it on the side keeps the corner open for cleaning. Just be sure to account for room when planning cabinetry and backsplashes.
Choosing a Material
Drainboards can match your sink material like stainless steel or porcelain enamel. Tile or wood are other options that complement traditional decor. Use a waterproof finish with wood.
Copper drainboard sinks create a nice symmetrical look. Just keep cleaning requirements in mind with more high-maintenance metals.
Installing Your Corner Kitchen Sink
While it may seem like a simple swap, there are some important installation factors to consider with a corner sink.
The Sink Base Cabinet
The existing cabinet in your kitchen corner must properly support the weight of the sink. Double check that the dimensions match up to the size of the sink you select as well.
For some sinks, minor modifications like trimming the countertop opening may do the trick. But more often, custom carpentry work is required to account for the sink, faucet, and plumbing.
Plumbing Configuration
Flexible water supply lines and drains are recommended to make the tight corner connections. You’ll also want a high arch gooseneck faucet that can clear the sides of the basin.
Pull-down spray faucets are popular for corner installations. Just be sure your faucet reach extends over your sink size and drainboard width.
Professional Install Recommended
Due to the need for custom carpentry, professional installation is advisable for most corner sinks. This will ensure your new sink is fully supported and all plumbing aligned properly.
Doing it yourself is possible for those with carpentry skills, but remember this is a complex project with little room for error.
Design Tips and Sink Styling
With your sink selected and installation complete, it’s time to pull together your corner sink design.
Choosing Countertops
Aim for a streamlined look by selecting a countertop material that coordinates well with your sink finish. For example, white marble or quartz complements apron-front porcelain sinks.
Undermount installation creates a seamless countertop appearance. Just ensure the material can accommodate an undermount cutout before selecting.
Backsplash Styles
Backsplashes not only protect your walls from water damage but provide the perfect space to embellish your design. Subway tile, metal, stone, and glass backsplashes all pair nicely with corner sinks.
Faucet Finishes
Choose a faucet finish that matches your sink and other kitchen hardware. Farmhouse sinks look right at home with industrial black, bronze, or brass faucets. Play up the vintage appeal with bridge-style spouts.
For a contemporary sink, opt for gleaming steel or chrome fixtures. Faucets with handy pull-down sprayers lend functional convenience.
With extra thought and care during planning, a corner sink can become a cherished part of your kitchen. Keep configuration, installation, and styling considerations in mind. And enjoy the expanded space and utility a corner sink design provides.