Remodeling a Small Bath Calls for the Right Sink Remodeling a small bath calls for the right sink both in terms of the amount of space it uses and the impression of space it creates in the room and because it is a vital element in the room’s décor. The price range (between $100 and upwards of $1,000) and the variety of colors, styles and materials make sink selection one of the most important decisions in remodeling a small bath.
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In a small space like a small bath, your choice of a sink becomes more important. Shopping broadly at first will give you a good sense of the vast array of styles, colors, shapes and materials available for your remodel. Once you have a basic idea of what you want and how it will fit into the finished room and your decorating style, you will be able to use the combination of key factors to choose the right sink for remodeling your small bath.
As you shop, keep in mind that most showrooms only have the space to display the most popular or the newest designs, colors and styles. If you are looking for something special – if, for example, you want the sink to be the focal point of your design – you might want to ask about other options, ask to review manufacturer brochures or catalogues or do a little shopping online.
Here are a few insights to help you with decisions about the key factors about sinks.
By far, the most common materials for sinks are porcelain, enamel or china over steel or cast iron. These sinks are very durable, stain resistant and mildew resistant. You can probably find almost any color you want, and they are available in all types of installation technique. The recent trend toward luxurious bathrooms led manufacturers to also create designs in other materials to produce the visual effects homeowners wanted. You will find sinks made from acrylics, metals, glass, solid surface, concrete, stone and cultured stone. As you make your decision, think about who will use the bathroom. Stone and concrete are very high-maintenance materials because they require sealing and regular re-sealing. Glass and metal can scratch easily.
Once you make a decision about style and décor in your small bath, you will need to choose the right sink and the right installation method. There are five main installation methods:
- Wall-mounted and free-standing sinks eliminate the need for a vanity. These sinks use very little space, use very little or no floor space, and generally make the small bathroom look bigger. If your bathroom remodel is concerned with accessibility, these are also the best choices. The only drawback (for some) is that both of these installations leave pipes visible and they have no storage space.
- Drop-in sinks are made with a rim (either of the same material or of metal) which overlaps the edge of the countertop. If you plan to include a vanity in your remodeled small bathroom, you might choose this style, as do most remodelers. This is an inexpensive and easy-installation option that is ideal for the do-it-yourselfer. If you choose this style, choose a deeper sink to reduce the amount of splashing that will happen.
- A solid-surface countertop and sink is a very popular option, as well. These sinks and countertops are made of a single continuous piece of material. These can be used with either a standard vanity or a piece of furniture. These sinks look smooth and sleek, the materials are durable, and they are very easy to keep clean. If you choose a solid-surface sink made of stone or concrete, keep in mind that it will need maintenance and regular re-sealing. These sinks also are usually shallow, so there could be splashing.
- Under-mounted sinks are also popular because they do not use any of the available surface space for installation. They make a smooth surface because they are attached to the underside. The limitation of this style sink is that you can only use materials that are completely waterproof.
- The countertop installation is used for specialty and decorative bowls that sit on the top of a counter or a piece of furniture. The drain is in the bottom of the bowl and aligns with a matching hole in the counter or piece of furniture. You will find that both the bowl and the installation cost for this type of sink can become expensive.
Uncommon shapes, exotic and natural materials and bright colors have been the trend in sinks over recent years. The trend of using a piece of furniture (or a vanity made to look like a piece of furniture) is hard to pull off in a small bathroom unless you are lucky enough to find a very small antique piece.
There are several unique challenges in small bath remodels. The most important is to make the very best possible use of space. Many homeowners choose storage options other than vanities or other cabinets to leave open space. You can also do some things to reinforce the illusion of space, such as lighter colors and vertical stripes. Making the sink the focal point of the decoration of the small bathroom can be a very good idea because it allows you to use the tub and shower surrounds to further enhance the sense of space.
Remodeling a small bath clearly calls for the right sink. Spending enough time on shopping and learning what is available, devoting enough thought and time to planning the design of the room, and considering the benefits and challenges of various materials will allow you to choose the perfect sink. Think creatively and plan effectively and your sink choice will help you design the perfect small bathroom.
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