Customizing Your Cozy Kitchen with a Corner Sink
If you're remodeling your kitchen or building a new home, you may be looking for ways to maximize both style and efficiency. One unique option? Installing a corner sink to open up counterspace and give your kitchen a custom look. Corner sinks allow you to make the most of an often underutilized area of the kitchen while adding flair and functionality.
But before installing a corner sink, it's essential to understand the unique considerations to ensure it fits your space properly.
Take Precise Measurements of the Available Corner Space
The first critical step is using a measuring tape to gauge the exact width and depth of the kitchen corner you want to place a sink. Make sure to measure from multiple angles to ensure you have an accurate number.
Pay special attention to potential obstructions, like pipes, windows, or appliances, that could get in the way of installing a corner sink. Account for these in your measurements.
Allow Adequate Room for Your Chosen Sink Basin Size
In addition to measuring the corner itself, check that there is adequate room underneath for the size and shape of basin you want. Standard corner sink basins range from compact 16-inch circular styles to more expansive square designs nearing 36 inches.
If your available base cabinet and counter space can accommodate a larger basin, it may be worth it for added functionality. But don't overwhelm the area, as you still need open counterspace for food prep and appliances.
Consider Circular vs. Square Corner Sink Shapes
The shape of your selected corner sink should align with the layout and angles of your kitchen corner. Circular corner sinks often fit better in more rounded spaces, while square sinks accommodate the sharp 90-degree angles of many kitchen layouts.
Square corner sinks also allow you to make the most of a larger surface area. But circular sinks provide a tidy, elegant look that can serve as a striking focal point.
Choose the Ideal Size and Depth for Your Needs
When selecting a corner sink, also consider the depth. Deeper basins can handle larger stacks of dishes, making cleanup after busy weeknight dinners a breeze. But a sink that's too deep can cause strain when trying to reach the bottom.
If multiple people will use the kitchen, pick a corner sink depth that works ergonomically for all heights. In general, sinks with a depth close to 9 inches provide the best balance of capacity and accessibility.
Ensure the Location Allows for Easy Accessibility
The unique triangular shape that allows corner sinks to tuck into wasted space also comes with a tradeoff--potential accessibility issues. Make sure your design plans position the sink in a spot that is easy to reach while washing dishes.
Test out various positions in the corner to find the optimal spot. You may need to adjust counters, walls, or appliances to make it work. The key is not cramping the area around the sink, which can happen in especially small kitchens.
Check That the Sink Height Works for Your Household
In addition to considering ease of reach, tailor the sink height and surrounding counter level to the range of heights in your home. Standard counter height works well for a diversity of statures. Or you can opt for an adjustable corner sink that customizes to each user.
The right sink height can make dishwashing much more comfortable. Don't forget this key ergonomic factor!
Understand the Customized Installation Process
While regular rectangular sink installations involve simply cutting a hole in the counter, fitting a uniquely shaped corner sink basin requires extra customization. The contractor will likely need to cut a custom opening in both the counter and cabinets to embed the sink properly.
This specialized process costs more than a typical installation. But done correctly by an experienced professional, it gives a seamless look with the counter and sink perfectly aligned.
Consult a Kitchen Design Expert
To ensure proper planning and execution, consult a designer or contractor who is familiar with corner sink installations. They can assess your space, recommend positioning, ensure accurate measurements, and coordinate cabinetry and counter modifications.
An expert eye can catch potential issues early and prevent problems down the road. Don't rely on guesswork--get professional guidance.
Factor in Lighting Needs for the New Sink Area
The shifted position of a corner sink can positively or negatively impact the lighting in your kitchen. Evaluate whether the new spot will have adequate illumination from existing fixtures or nearby windows.
For darker corners, you may need to install specialty lighting above the sink. LED strip lighting attaches directly to cabinets and provides bright task lighting perfect for food prep and dishwashing.
Ensure the Sink Area Will Be Well-Lit
While ambient overhead lighting suffices for parts of the kitchen, carefully washing dishes requires directed illumination. Position adjustable undercabinet lights to target the sink space without shadows or glare.
Proper lighting makes using the sink far more pleasant and allows you to verify dishes are sparkling clean before putting them away.
Determine if You'll Have Enough Remaining Storage Space
One disadvantage of corner sinks is they can eat into precious storage real estate. The diagonal shape means you often lose space for upper corner cabinets. This can be problematic for small kitchens already pressed for room.
Before committing to a corner sink, inventory all your dishes, glasses, cookware and food items. Will what remains of your cabinetry accommodate everything once the corner opens up?
Creative Solutions for Corner Cabinet Storage
If you'll be surrendering corner cabinets but need to preserve storage, there are solutions. Add an angled lazy susan in base cabinets to provide access to the dead space. Or install specialty pull-out cabinet organizers to hold pans and baking sheets.
Getting creative with storage accessories can help compensate for lost cabinet footage when adding a corner sink.
Weigh the Benefits vs. Potential Drawbacks
From increased counterspace to freeing up room for windows, corner sinks offer alluring benefits. But the potential issues like lighting challenges or cramped dishwashing quarters should also hold weight in your decision.
Make a list of your must-have kitchen features. Will a corner sink asset or detract from these? Giving ample consideration upfront prevents seller's remorse down the line.
Decide if a Corner Sink Suits Your Kitchen Layout and Lifestyle
Consider your cooking and eating habits. Do you regularly host large dinner parties that fill the sink with a mountain of dishes? Are multiple people cooking at once in the kitchen? If so, ensure a corner sink can accommodate.
The sink you choose should fit both the layout of the room itself and the way you use your kitchen. Keep your family's needs and habits at the forefront of the decision process.
With careful planning and professional help, adding a corner sink can take your kitchen from basic to spectacular. Use the considerations above to determine if it's the right choice to maximize style and efficiency.
And if you decide to take the corner sink plunge, be sure to hire an experienced contractor for flawless installation. With strategic designing and quality construction, your new sink can become a beloved family gathering spot for years to come.