Choosing the Right Sink for Your Kitchen: A Comprehensive Guide
- Where to Begin: New Kitchen or Just a Refresh?
- What to Bring to Your Sink Consultation
- Make It Pop or Keep It Subtle
- Sink Styles
- Materials Matter
- Bowl Configurations: Find the Layout That Works for You
- Depth, Size & Everyday Comfort
- Corner Radius: Tiny Design, Big Difference
- Accessories & Care: Getting the Most from Your Sink
- Staff Picks: Sinks That Balance Style and Everyday Function
- We’ll Help You Choose the Right Sink
Summer renovations are in full swing, and if you're looking to make a meaningful upgrade, start with the kitchen sink. Whether you're mid-reno or just beginning to explore your options, the right sink can transform how your kitchen looks and functions.
From oversized pots that never seem to fit, to constant splash messes or just wanting a more stylish setup—this one change can make a big impact on daily life.
"Whether it's for purpose and functionality, or an itch for change, updating your kitchen's faucet and/or sink is a great opportunity for a smaller project to make a big difference." - Nicole, Showroom Expert
At Splashes Bath & Kitchen, we hear from homeowners every day who are ready for something better—but with over 1,000 sink options on Splashes.com (yes, really!), it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Size, shape, material, accessories... it’s a lot to sort through.
That’s why we created this guide: to help you ask the right questions, plan with confidence, and avoid any renovation regrets. Whether you're working with an existing cutout or designing a brand-new layout, we’ll walk you through the key details that matter most—from cabinet measurements to sink style, material, and installation tips.
Whenever you're ready, book a consultation with us. Bring your measurements, photos, and questions—we’ll help you find a sink that fits your kitchen, your workflow, and your style.
Where to Begin: New Kitchen or Just a Refresh?
Before you fall in love with a sink, figure out where you’re starting from. Are you swapping out a sink in your existing kitchen, or building from scratch? That decision shapes everything that follows.
Starting Fresh? You’ve Got Freedom
If you’re planning a full kitchen remodel with new cabinets, countertops, and layout, you’ve got lots of flexibility. The first thing to figure out is your sink base cabinet size—talk to your cabinet maker or designer early, and they’ll set those dimensions.
You’ll also need to decide on countertop material—laminate, solid surface, granite—which determines the types of sinks that work best. With those bases covered, you’re free to dive into style, size, and extras.
Replacing a Sink? Time to Get Practical
If you’re planning to keep your current setup, things get a bit more technical. To help our showroom experts guide you effectively, we’ll need the following key measurements:
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Sink depth (from the top rim to the bottom)
- Sink length (side to side)
- Sink width (front to back)
If your current sink is a top-mount or drop-in style (vs. undermount), it will have a lip that sits over the countertop. To measure it accurately:
- Remove the sink and turn it upside down.
- Place a tape measure or ruler flat against the basin.
- Measure from the basin edge to the outer lip.
Next, measure the cabinet opening beneath the sink—this tells us the maximum width your new sink can be. And don’t forget what’s under the cabinet: garbage disposals, hot water dispensers, pull-out bins, and plumbing all take up space. If there’s ducting or complex pipework, even an extra inch of sink depth might be an issue.
If your sink base is flanked by drawer banks, replacements can be tricky—but if it’s surrounded by standard cupboards, a creative installer may still make adjustments.
Also tell us what your countertop is made of. Laminate can sometimes be trimmed, but stone surfaces like quartz or granite are far less forgiving. Most stone fabricators won’t modify work they didn’t install—meaning you’ll likely need to work within your current cutout.
What to Bring to Your Sink Consultation
To make your consultation efficient and helpful, come prepared with a few essentials:
- Whether it’s a renovation or a new build
- Cabinet and countertop measurements
- Clear photos of your kitchen (especially unusual details or tight spaces)
- Details on how you use your kitchen—daily cooking, big families, baking, entertaining
- Your countertop material
- Any quirks (window ledges, shallow counters, etc.)
- And don’t forget to review the spec sheets on Splashes.com—linked on every product page with dimensions, required cabinet sizes, gauge, insulation, and corner radius
Bringing these details helps us match you with sinks that truly work in your space—and for your workflow.
Ready to find your perfect sink? Book your consultation today and let’s dive into our kitchen sink selection!
Make It Pop or Keep It Subtle
While you're thinking about fit and function, don’t forget style. Do you prefer your sink to blend into the background with matching hues—dark-on-dark or white-on-white—for a seamless, clean look? Or do you want it to stand out, making a bold statement that defines the kitchen’s character? Either route works; the choice depends on your aesthetic goals.
Sink Styles
Not all sinks are installed the same way—and the style you choose impacts everything from installation to everyday cleanup. Whether you’re leaning toward a classic drop-in, a sleek undermount, or want the flexibility of a dual-mount design, here’s what you need to know.
Drop-In (Top-Mount)
Drop-in sinks are especially well-suited for laminate countertops, which are often built over a particle board core. Because particle board is highly susceptible to water damage, a drop-in sink provides crucial protection by sitting on top of the counter and covering the cut edges.
Many styles also feature a raised faucet ledge, simplifying installation and minimizing the risk of leaks around the tap. For homes with laminate or wood-based counters, drop-in sinks are often the best choice.
Undermount
Undermount sinks are best paired with solid-surface materials like quartz, granite, or composite stone, where the countertop can support the weight and allow for a clean, finished edge. Installed beneath the counter, they create a sleek, seamless look that modern kitchens love.
Keep in mind that undermount installation requires professional mounting and proper sealing to prevent water seepage, especially if you're working with heavy sink materials like cast iron or fireclay.
Drain-Board
Drainboard sinks are a smart solution for compact kitchens where space is limited and there isn’t room for multiple large bowls. Built with an integrated drying area, these sinks give you a dedicated spot to drain dishes, air-dry cookware, or even prep vegetables—without cluttering your countertops. The sloped surface channels water directly into the sink, keeping everything tidy and reducing mess in smaller kitchens.
Farmhouse (Apron-Front)
Bold and beautiful, these sinks stick out past the cabinet edge. They require custom framing and early ordering, but the payoff is a stunning centerpiece.
Workstation Sinks
Workstation sinks are a game-changer for anyone looking to streamline kitchen tasks and make the most of their space. Designed with built-in ledges or tiers, these modular sinks allow you to slide accessories—like cutting boards, colanders, drying racks, and wash basins—right over the bowl.
Materials Matter
What your sink is made of plays a big role in how it performs—impacting everything from durability and noise to heat retention and how easy it is to clean.
Stainless steel is a tried-and-true classic for good reason. It’s lightweight, easy to clean, and works with almost any kitchen style. For the best performance, look for 16- or 18-gauge steel—the lower the number, the thicker (and quieter) the metal. A brushed finish helps hide water spots and scratches, making it a practical choice for busy households.
"If you’re installing more than one sink—such as a main sink and a bar sink—it can be worthwhile to choose both from the same manufacturer or product series. That way, you’ll ensure a matching brushed finish, inside the bowls and the corner radius of the sinks will be the same"- Sameha, Showroom Expert
Composite sinks, made from quartz or granite blends, offer a modern look with superior durability. Brands like Kohler, Franke, and BLANCO—whose Canadian-made Silgranit sinks are a customer favorite—provide a range of rich, matte colours that resist scratches, stains, and heat.
Silgranit sinks are crafted from up to 80% natural granite, offering a stone-like feel that’s both strong and smooth to the touch. They’re non-porous, making them exceptionally hygienic and easy to clean. These sinks also keep water warmer longer and dampen sound.
Planning to go bold with colour? Bring a countertop sample to ensure everything coordinates perfectly.
Cast iron sinks are known for their glossy enamel finish and vibrant colours, adding warmth and character to any kitchen. They're extremely durable but also quite heavy. Their thick construction also helps dampen sound and retain water temperature longer.
Fireclay sinks bring timeless charm with their handcrafted look and silky-smooth surface—perfect for farmhouse and classic kitchen styles. They're tough, hold warmth and are built to last.
Concrete sinks bring a bold, custom-crafted feel to the kitchen. They’re highly durable with a matte, industrial look that fits beautifully in modern or rustic spaces. The dense material also helps soften noise and hold warmth. Each piece is unique, often handcrafted by artisans for a one-of-a-kind finish.
Bowl Configurations: Find the Layout That Works for You
When it comes to kitchen sinks, layout matters just as much as material or style. The right bowl configuration can make cooking, cleaning, and even entertaining feel smoother and more efficient. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular options—and how to know which one fits your kitchen best.
Single-bowl sinks have surged in popularity thanks to their clean, modern look and extra-spacious basin. They’re ideal if you often wash large pots, baking sheets, or roasting pans, since you won’t have to maneuver around a center divider. The uninterrupted space is also great for multitasking prep and clean-up.
Double-bowl sinks are a tried-and-true classic. With one side for washing and the other for rinsing or drying, they’re perfect for everyday multitasking. Whether you’re handwashing dishes or prepping ingredients, this split layout adds versatility—without taking up extra space.
Triple-bowl sinks are a favourite among avid home cooks and serious multitaskers. These designs offer dedicated zones for rinsing, prepping, and soaking—all in one integrated space. Most are made of durable stainless steel to support heavy, frequent use.
One-and-a-half bowl sinks, sometimes called “offset” or “multi-function” layouts, offer a clever compromise. The smaller side basin is perfect for draining pasta, rinsing produce, or housing a garbage disposal, while the larger bowl handles bigger cleanup tasks. If your kitchen has unique cabinetry or workflow needs, custom configurations are also available.
Low-divide sinks give you the flexibility of a double bowl with extra room to maneuver. A lowered center divider allows water to flow easily between basins, making it easier to wash oversized items without sacrificing the benefits of two distinct spaces. It’s a great hybrid option for those who want both separation and spaciousness.
"The low-divide sink is a newer concept, but it’s effective—especially for cleaning those big, bulky items that won’t go in the dishwasher. It’s about 6 inches high, so I ask people, ‘Do you fill your sink past this?’ If not, it’s a great option for them. Then it’s just a matter of preference: equal bowls, offset sizes, or single bowl—it really depends on how you use your kitchen." - Trista, Showroom Expert
Excaliber undermount one and a half bowl sink with low divide
Depth, Size & Everyday Comfort
While bowl configuration and style are key, it’s also worth paying attention to the size and depth of your sink—especially when it comes to day-to-day comfort and usability.
A helpful starting point? Grab your largest pot, baking sheet, or roasting pan and see how it fits in your current sink. Even if you don’t use it every day, knowing your new sink can handle it without awkward tilting or splashing is a big win.
Depth is another important factor to think about. Deeper sinks are great for hiding dishes and holding more water, but they can also lead to hunching—especially if you’re tall or do a lot of handwashing. If you’re keeping your existing cabinetry, make sure your new sink isn’t so deep that it causes back strain.
Corner Radius: Tiny Design, Big Difference
One detail that often flies under the radar when choosing a sink is the corner radius—but it can have a big impact on both style and function.
Traditional sinks typically feature large, rounded corners (around 30 mm), which are known for being easy to clean. Their soft curves prevent buildup and make it simple to wipe down every inch of the bowl. On the other end of the spectrum, zero-radius sinks have sharp, 90-degree corners that create a bold, modern look and maximize usable space inside the basin—great for fitting baking sheets or cutting boards flat.
But if you’re looking for the best of both worlds, many homeowners today are choosing a tight 10–15 mm corner radius. It offers that clean, squared-off aesthetic without the hassle of scrubbing into hard-to-reach corners. This middle-ground design is stylish, practical, and easier to maintain than sharper edges.
Accessories & Care: Getting the Most from Your Sink
Even if your sink isn’t a full workstation model, there’s a wide range of accessories available to boost function and convenience. Thoughtfully chosen add-ons can make everyday tasks easier—and protect your investment, too.
Bottom grids are a great first step. They sit at the base of your sink to prevent scratches, keep dishes elevated for better drainage, and reduce wear over time. You’ll also find cutting boards, colanders, utility racks, and baskets designed to sit neatly on the sink rim or ledge—even in standard, non-workstation sinks.
If you're adding extras like soap dispensers or water filtration systems, be sure to check your under-counter space and plumbing layout before buying. Matching the finishes on your strainers, dispensers, and baskets creates a clean, cohesive look—and don’t forget, if you’re planning on a garbage disposal, make sure your sink material is up to the task. Sturdy materials like stainless steel or composite handle vibration and wear much better over time.
And finally, protect your sink with proper care and maintenance. If you’ve chosen a composite granite sink like Blanco’s Silgranit, use a specially formulated cleaner like BLANCOCLEAN. Although Silgranit is naturally stain and scratch resistant, a weekly wipe-down with the right product helps prevent limescale and soap scum build-up—keeping your sink looking smooth, vibrant, and new for years to come.
Staff Picks: Sinks That Balance Style and Everyday Function
When it comes to choosing a sink that blends smart design with real-life usability, our showroom team knows exactly what to look for. Whether you’re after a compact prep sink or a bold centerpiece for your kitchen, these handpicked favorites offer the perfect mix of performance, durability, and style.
One of the most popular choices among homeowners is the BLANCO LIVEN and PRECIS series—versatile, durable, and available in finishes that complement almost any kitchen. Made from Silgranit®, Blanco’s Canadian-made granite composite, these sinks are known for their resistance to stains, scratches, and heat, all while maintaining a smooth, matte texture that’s easy to clean.
The Blanco Liven 21" Single Bowl is a go-to for smaller kitchens, prep areas, or secondary sinks in pantries. Despite its compact size, it’s designed to handle daily tasks with ease. Its dual-mount installation lets you choose between drop-in or undermount, making it adaptable to your space.
Blanco Liven 21" dual mount sink in coal black
Need more room to multitask? The Blanco Liven 33" Double Bowl gives you separation for washing and rinsing, with a convenient low divide that makes it easy to clean large cookware without splashing. It’s a beautiful balance of practicality and sleek design.
Prefer a wide-open workspace? The Blanco Liven 33" Single Bowl offers one large, uninterrupted basin—perfect for soaking pans, prepping meals, or managing big cleanups. It delivers both simplicity and standout performance in a clean, modern finish.
Blanco Precis Cascade 1.5 bowl undermount in coal black
And for those who prefer the timeless look and feel of stainless steel, the FORMERA Undermount Sink is a sleek, premium option. Made with high-quality stainless steel, it offers sound-dampening technology, generous depth, and clean lines that suit modern or upscale kitchens. It’s just as practical as it is polished.
We’ll Help You Choose the Right Sink
Choosing a kitchen sink isn’t always simple—but with the right planning, it gets a whole lot easier. A little preparation now can save you from costly mistakes later—like buying a sink that doesn’t fit your cabinet or won’t work with your existing countertop cutout.
At Splashes Bath & Kitchen, we’re here to help you navigate all the options and zero in on a sink that fits your style, your space, and your everyday needs. Just bring your questions, photos, and measurements to your consultation—and we’ll guide you through the rest of the process.
Ready to dive in? Book your consultation today and let’s find the sink that makes your kitchen work beautifully.
