10 Fresh Ways to Rethink the Kitchen Sink

Going beyond the classic farmhouse style.
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The shabby-chic movement has inspired a mecca of kitchen trends. Chief among them, reigns the farmhouse sink. Up there with granite countertops, super islands, and stainless steel appliances, the farmhouse sink slowly become a staple in cookie-cutter homes with a rustic flair. But what if we told you there’s more to sink design than this standard and expected go-to?

When we think of all the places we want to show our personality in the kitchen, the sink certainly isn’t one of them. Yet, in the same way, a bold range, retro refrigerator, or graphic backsplash brings new meaning (and big style) to the heart of the home, a design-forward sink can also elevate the room.

Whether lined with a cool copper base or swathed in a fiery burst of orange, the kitchen sinks ahead will inspire you to rethink the norm.

Inside this rehabbed house in East London by artist, maker, and furniture designer, Faye Toogood, a checkered pop decks the basin. Though the overall aesthetic of the space takes a slight turn for the utilitarian with the stone cold countertops and earth-toned ceramics, this special patterned splash is an inviting surprise.

Candlemakers Linda and John Meyer’s bright and bold Portland, Maine home is an enticing celebration of color and fun. A true lesson in not taking life too seriously, their carrot-colored sink effortlessly picks up on the pair’s equally vibrant collection of dishes—not to mention, the cabinet knobs. With a sink like this, washing up after dinner would seem like anything but a chore.

Not over the classic farmhouse shape? The dramatic marble sink in Jenni Kayne’s Lake Tahoe kitchen puts a fresh spin on tradition. Other rustic elements in the room, like the custom wood cabinetry and painted brick backsplash, give the material new meaning. Without falling into a trap of farmhouse cliches, her luxe space feels contemporary and rural, all at once.

Consider making a striking statement in copper. For their parents’ LA condo, bohemian-masterminds Justina and Faith Blakeney transformed the abode into an eclectic, textured oasis filled with metallic moments. The duo’s attention to detail really shines in the kitchen, where a hammered copper sink serves as the primary focal point for the space.

In an attempt to slyly blend in with its lustrous brass backsplash, this high-glam sink does just the opposite. The harmonious relationship between the backdrop and the faucet sparks instant allure. Coupled with abstract art and the most beautiful shade of olive green, this contemporary organic scheme, designed by Naked Kitchens, is one worth recreating.

Did we just find our dream sink? Helping to break up the strict black and white color palette at work within this Barcelona apartment by Raul Sanchez Architects, an unexpected hint of brass delineates the sink and hardware from its surrounding landscape. This metallic beauty is a testament to the power of contrast.

Black on black on black has never looked better. The secret to this high-impact scene? Consistency. In addition to the coordinating countertops and backsplash, we love that the interior of this perfectly square sink follows suit. Only a tiny brass faucet gives away the sink’s discreet location.

Even the tiniest sinks should be privy to the same thought and care. Sticking with a paired-down terrazzo, this teeny speckled wash space by Signorino for SMAK Food House in Australia is one dreamy way to approach a smaller-than-average sink without overwhelming the senses.

Who said your kitchen counters (and sink!) can’t be pink? We love the all-over look of this terrazzo space by Atelier Dialect, which makes a fresh statement with its sprinkled surface and charming round watering hole. Note how the pattern party doesn’t stop at its edge, but continues on into the interior.

Designer and textile connoisseur Veronica Hamlet’s ultra-chic Michigan cookhouse is a lesson in embracing black and white, the bohemian way. The breathtaking veins that grace both her kitchen backsplash and deep marble sink impart an added sense of dimension and movement.

See more inspiring ideas for the kitchen: 

Lessons Learned from the Coolest Scandinavian Kitchens

These English-Designed Kitchens Are Actual Goals

9 Reasons Why It’s Time to Paint Your Kitchen

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Lydia Geisel Avatar

Lydia Geisel

Home Editor

Lydia Geisel has been on the editorial team at Domino since 2017. Today, she writes and edits home and renovation stories, including house tours, before and afters, and DIYs, and leads our design news coverage. She lives in New York City.