Boost Your Kitchen's Style with Brilliant Sink Area Decor

The space above your kitchen sink often gets overlooked, but it has so much potential to make a stylish statement. This key area sets the tone and serves as a focal point for the whole room, so decorating it with care is well worth the effort. Whether your style leans modern, traditional or somewhere in between, there are many creative ways to give your sink surroundings a brilliant makeover.

With the right lighting fixtures, backsplash materials, shelving solutions and accessories, you can transform a boring blank wall into an eye-catching feature that makes your kitchen shine.

Choose Your Sink Style

Your choice of kitchen sink can make a big impact on the overall look of the space above and around it. Consider the sink style carefully as you plan your decor.

Apron Front Sinks

Apron front sinks, also called farmhouse sinks, are a popular choice for a classic, rustic aesthetic. The exposed front face of the sink extends out slightly from the countertop, creating a framed look. Stainless steel is a common apron front material that pairs nicely with the industrial vibe of pipe shelving or pendant lights. For a cottage feel, an apron sink in fireclay or porcelain enameled cast iron works well. Finish the look with wooden floating shelves holding potted herbs.

Cleanup is a breeze with deep single bowls designed for soaking large dishes. Just keep in mind that appliances like dishwashers may be harder to integrate with the traditional apron style.

Undermount Sinks

Undermount sinks offer a streamlined contemporary look, with the sink rim subtly sitting below the countertop surface. Popular materials include stainless steel, composite granite, and porcelain. The undermount installation highlights your choice of countertop without distracting seams. Pair an undermount sink with sleek accessories like industrial wire shelving or a stainless steel backsplash for bold style.

Rounded corners and low divides make undermount sinks easy to wipe down after meal prep. While typically more expensive upfront, they also increase your countertop options since you don’t need a pre-cut sink hole.

Commercial Sinks

For a restaurant-chic vibe, consider installing a commercial sink in your kitchen. These oversized sinks offer deep double bowls capable of handling large stacks of dishes. Made from heavy-duty materials like fireclay or stainless steel, they make a serious style statement. The industrial look plays well with exposed pipes, metal backsplashes, and cafe rod curtains above.

While a big investment, a commercial sink adds serious wow-factor to your kitchen. The ample basin space reduces splashing and makes light work of cleanup after big gatherings. Pick a high-performance faucet to match its professional-grade functionality.

Fabulous Lighting Above the Sink

Proper lighting is key to any kitchen task, and illuminating your sink area is no exception. A well-lit space helps you handle after-dark dish duty or meal prep safely. The right fixture also contributes ambiance and personality.

Pendant Lights

Hanging pendant lights above your sink is a trendy, functional choice. Mini-pendants work well centered precisely over the basin or in a linear formation. Opt for adjustable height to customize illumination. Industrial and modern kitchens benefit from the sleek lines of metal or glass pendants. For farmhouse charm, a galvanized metal lantern-style fixture hits the mark.

Aim for pendants totaling around 100 watts for adequate task lighting. Dimming capabilities let you set just the right mood. Place pendants at least 30 inches above the counter, out of your head’s way when at the sink.

Track Lighting

Track lighting offers brilliant flexibility to highlight your sink in the most flattering way. Multiple adjustable fixtures can be moved and angled as needed. Opt for LED or xenon bulbs to illuminate your work surface clearly and energy efficiently. Beyond the sink itself, tracks are great for beaming light onto stylish backsplashes, shelving displays and decorative touches.

Consider a separate switched track just for your sink area. Low voltage systems take some wiring know-how to install but provide superior lighting control. Position tracks at least 18 inches above your countertop for ideal illumination and clearance.

Natural Light

Nothing beats rays of natural sunlight streaming into your workspace. When possible, incorporate windows into your sink area decor. Glass tiles, metal mesh or other translucent backsplash materials help disperse light.

Frame the window above your sink attractively with complementary curtains or shades. Cafe-style curtains in crisp linen add a casual vibe, while sleek roman shades contribute an elegant note. For maximum light, skip window coverings completely and rely on sheer backsplash materials or low-profile shades elsewhere for privacy.

Backsplash Ideas

An artful backsplash instantly elevates your sink space from boring to beautiful. From traditional tile to trendy shiplap, there are plenty of materials to make your backsplash uniquely you.

Tile Backsplashes

Tile is a classic backsplash choice that stands the test of time. Sleek glass, metallic, or stone tiles in alternating patterns add serious wow-factor. Play with shape, color and orientation for customized charm. Set smaller mosaic tiles in a herringbone design for visual interest. Natural stone like marble, travertine or slate bring an earthy, organic look.

Beyond appearance, tile backsplashes handle water splashes and stains like a champ. Wipe ceramic or porcelain tiles clean with little effort. Use grout sealant to guard against mildew growth in the joints. Add inlays as pretty accents that won’t sacrifice function.

Shiplap Backsplash

For a charming cottage feel, shiplap offers natural visual warmth. Real reclaimed boards or faux planks create a rustic aesthetic. Painted or raw wood finishes determine the overall effect. Lean into the farmhouse vibe with muted green, creamy white or natural stained boards.

Accent shiplap with galvanized metal shelves, woven baskets and ceramic chicken decor. For a more modern twist, opt for sleek floating shelves atop crisp white shiplap. The wood texture provides natural contrast to smooth countertops.

Metal Backsplashes

Industrial metal backsplashes lend eye-catching style to contemporary spaces. Options like galvanized tin and perforated stainless steel mesh add depth and dimension. Metallic finishes from brushed nickel to oil-rubbed bronze offer different aesthetic effects. Pair metal backsplashes with apron front sinks or commercial basins to double down on the modern, architectural vibe.

Beyond looks, metal stands up to heavy use and wipes clean easily. Opt for corrugated or geometric patterns to hide unavoidable splatters over time. Use metal selectively behind the sink itself, balanced with painted wall space on outer areas.

Shelving to Maximize Space

Open shelving, floating shelves and pot racks expand your storage real estate above the sink. Visually break up blank walls and keep essentials within reach as you cook and clean.

Floating Shelves

Floating shelves make a big decorative impact with minimal effort. Wood, metal and tempered glass are eye-catching materials. For a cohesive look, opt for shelves that coordinate with your existing counters and backsplash. Floating shelves work in any style kitchen. Display colorful dishware to inject your personality.

Carefully measure shelf placement to avoid blocking windows or light fixtures. Mount shelves at least 15 inches above your countertop to allow clearance while working. Stagger shelf heights for bonus storage space and visual interest.

Wall-Mounted Pot Racks

Wall-mounted pot racks free up precious cabinet space while adding rustic flair. Sturdy iron or steel pipe racks can be configured above your stove or sink. Opt for a corner mount style to take advantage of wasted space. Beyond pots and pans, hang essential tools like ladles, colanders and frequently used knives within arm’s reach.

Look for solid brackets that anchor securely into wall studs. Make sure overhead racks don’t obstruct your range hood vent or ceiling height. Consider coating racks in matte black or opting for satin nickel pipes to limit grease stains over time.

Glass-Door Wall Cabinets

Closed storage maintains a tidy look but still displays your treasured dishes and collectibles with glass-door wall cabinets. Illuminate interiors with battery-operated LED strips or puck lights to highlight your pretty pieces. Floating glass-door units maintain easy access near the sink without sacrificing style.

Look for reinforced glass shelves capable of bearing weight safely. Use interior organizers to corral small items neatly. Unobstructed views of contents make everyday items feel like decor. For ambiance, install cabinets with glass doors above the sink’s surrounding counters.

Finishing Touches

It’s the little things that pull your whole sink area decor together into a cohesive, polished space. Don’t forget these important finishing details.

• Window treatments like cafe curtains soften the view while letting light filter in.
• Fresh flowers, herb plants or a bowl of lemons add organic, welcoming texture.
• Meaningful art prints or photos personalize the space.
• A magnetic knife strip is perfect for keeping essential cutlery handy but secure.
• Pretty dispensers hold dish soap, sponges and scrub brushes stylishly.

With the right mix of accessories and accent pieces, it’s easy to elevate your sink surroundings from dull to dazzling. Express your personal style through considered details and decor.

Your kitchen sink area sets the tone for the whole room, so take time to give it the attention it deserves. With the latest trends in sinks, backsplashes, cabinets and shelving, you can create a space that is both highly functional and beautiful.

Whether your style is modern, industrial, rustic or somewhere in between, there are innovative ways to decorate the often overlooked space above your sink. With proper lighting, smart shelving, and eye-catching finishes, you can boost your kitchen’s style in unexpected ways. Revitalize your most-used workspace and highlight your inner interior designer.