The cabinetry may be the highlight of any kitchen, but it has a hardworking companion that’s finally getting the recognition it deserves—the kitchen sink.
More than just a place to rinse vegetables and clean up dishes, the sink has evolved into a vital workspace in the kitchen. Sinks are becoming larger and more elaborate and accessories are improving productivity while saving space. When it comes to faucets, technology now allows us to wash our hands without even touching the handle. What’s more, faucet designs are now works of art in and of themselves, making hands-free faucets in the kitchen today a far cry from sterile sensor-driven restroom faucets.
Sinks and faucets are both getting colorful with new and exciting finishes and details making the sink an area where one can really show off their personality and style. And the best part is that there is no need to sacrifice functionality for aesthetics.
Here is just a peek at some of the most impressive sink and faucet products and trends on the market today.
Farmhouse Flair
The farmhouse sink has morphed beyond the traditional white enamel sink. Yet today’s apron front styles are equally timeless. The fact that they’re a perfect focal point combined with a large, practical sink basin places the Farmhouse sink right on trend. We’re seeing fresh new shapes, new colors, and a variety of new styles in apron front sinks. While enameled cast iron versions are touted for their beauty, strength, and durability, stainless steel versions have made farmhouse style sinks commonplace in contemporary kitchens too. Since they’re large enough to accommodate oversized cookware and the classic deep bowl means less splashing, they’re an ergonomic choice that allows users to get closer to the sink’s workspace. You’ll find farmhouse sinks with beautifully carved designs as well as those with clean lines and contemporary forms. No matter which way you go with a farmhouse style sink, it’s bound to be both iconic and hardworking.
Like The Pros
Commercial grade appliances have been trending for many years. The desire for professionally styled tools has carried over to the kitchen sink and faucet, too.
Professional style faucets are now pretty much the norm in today’s Prep spaces.
For at-home chefs who want all the function of a professional kitchen, there are a myriad of products designed to deliver. For example, Franke has just introduced their new Chef Center. This integrated sink system features thoughtfully designed compartments and accessories that allow for a seamless flowing workspace. This stainless steel kitchen hub includes a large sink to accommodate bigger pots and pans, a sink reveal that allows accessories to lie flat on the sink ledge, custom accessories including a cutting board, colander, grid, mobile drainer board, push button remote controlled operated strainer basket and exclusive Roller Mat.
On the faucet side of things, California Faucets has recently introduced two culinary faucets. Corsano and Poetto Pull-Out Culinary Faucets are handmade with the company’s signature 100-percent solid brass construction, plus they offer an industry-first ability to color the outer spring in any of the company’s 15 decorative PVD finishes guaranteed not to tarnish. Whether you choose to mix the finishes or match, it’s a refreshing departure from the typical plain stainless steel spring.
Becoming Black and White
Speaking of color and finishes, we’ve witnessed a visible shift that now includes different faucet finishes in the kitchen. Those looking for something more exciting than the standard polished chrome or stainless steel are turning to darker finishes like brushed nickel or bronze. Finishes that add a bit of visual texture are also on the rise. We’re also seeing new and interesting shades of black. Delta’s new Black Stainless finish, for example offers a modern look that’s warmer and less reflective than traditional stainless steel. The new finish pairs beautifully with black stainless appliances and works well with a variety of finishes. On the lighter end of things, white finishes are another alternative to sparkling chrome. California Faucets has a new Matte White finish that’s available for their modern Italian-inspired Kitchen Collection. The clear powder coating, designed to allow the underlying color to show through, offers an extra layer of protection while enhancing the integrity of the finish.
It’s Automatic
Technology is trending upward and the kitchen of the future is now. From smart appliances and sensor-activated lighting, today’s tech developments make life in the kitchen easier—and, when it comes to the kitchen sink area, more sanitary too. Automated faucets are more than a passing fad. They’re great for homes with small children who can’t yet reach the handle or any kitchen where busy cooks often have sticky hands. Automated faucets can actually help conserve water and help you save on water bills. Hygiene is a big part of what makes automated faucets so popular, as they can help cooks avoid cross contamination. Hands-free faucets like American Standard’s Beale Touchless Kitchen Faucet with Selectronic help make common kitchen tasks feel effortless. A wave of your hand turns the faucet on and off, plus it easily changes to manual mode when needed with a sliding sensor door. You can choose from two task-driven spray patterns and a pause button temporarily stops flow when necessary. Delta has also upped the automation game with a collection of automated sink accessories. The new line includes touch-activated beverage faucets and soap dispensers that operate with a light tap or the wave of a hand.
What’s wonderful about all of the products mentioned above is that while they look amazing—and appearance is very important—their key feature is functionality. The very best products for the sink deliver on ergonomics and performance as much as they appeal to a design aesthetic. Be sure to catch up with us next month when we take a look at the leading sink and faucet trends in the bath.