9 Beautiful and Unique Kitchen Sinks for Your Next Remodel

A kitchen sink is one of the most used fixtures in any home. With so many activities like washing dishes, preparing food, and more happening around the sink every day, you want one that is both beautiful and highly functional. When remodeling your kitchen, the sink can make a major style statement and impact the look and feel of the whole room.

There are many different types of kitchen sinks to choose from these days, ranging from modern to traditional. Materials like stainless steel, ceramic, granite, and more each have their own pros and cons. Beyond the basic functionality of washing dishes, today’s sinks can include special features like divided bowls, drainboards, pull-out faucets, soap dispensers, and more.

Choosing the right sink for your kitchen remodel depends on considerations like the existing cabinetry and countertops, your preferred material, budget, and desired features. To inspire your remodel, here are 9 beautiful and unique kitchen sink ideas to consider:

1. Undermount Stainless Steel Sink

Stainless steel is a popular choice for kitchen sinks due to its modern look, durability, and easy maintenance. Undermount sinks attach below the countertop for a sleek, contemporary style. Pros of stainless steel include:

Durable and long-lasting – resists scratches, stains, and dents
Easy to clean and sanitize
Noise-dampening – less loud than other materials
Available in many sizes and configurations
Affordable pricing

When choosing an undermount stainless sink, opt for a thick gauge steel for added sturdiness and sound absorption. Pair with stone or solid surface countertops for a striking, modern look.

An undermount stainless steel sink creates a contemporary look. (Source: The Spruce / Kate Beavis-Tyler)

Undermount sinks may cost more for installation since the countertop must be cut to fit around them. However, they offer a seamless, sophisticated look.

2. Farmhouse Sink

Farmhouse or apron-front sinks are a hot trend in kitchen design. This classic style features a deep, wide basin and exposed front. Pros include:

Deep single basin provides ample washing space
Exposed apron is a stylish focal point
Many material choices like fireclay, cast iron, composite, and stainless steel
Versatile to fit modern, traditional, or rustic decor

Farmhouse sinks come in enameled cast iron, fireclay, or stainless steel for durability. They can develop patinas and add vintage character over time. Consider a farmhouse sink if you cook often and need room to wash large pots and pans.

A classic farmhouse sink suits traditional kitchen designs. (Source: The Spruce / Ana Bowman Design)

The exposed front and standard 36″ width means these sinks may not fit smaller spaces well. Farmhouse sinks can be expensive, with premium materials like natural stone costing over $1000 in some cases. But their elegance makes them worth the splurge for many homeowners.

3. Fireclay Kitchen Sink

Similar to farmhouse sinks, fireclay sinks have vintage styling but with a sleeker look. Fireclay is a type of glazed ceramic made from clay and high heat. Benefits of fireclay kitchen sinks include:

Available in contemporary or retro styles
Durable, chip and stain-resistant surface
Non-porous so resists bacteria
Maintains temperature of washing water longer
Comes in many colors like black, white, biscuit, and gray

Fireclay is lighter than cast iron and absorbs less sound. It provides a glossy finish that resists scratches and food stains. Unlike metal, fireclay is non-conductive so won’t transfer temperature to your hands.

A round fireclay sink is an attractive retro accent. (Source: The Spruce / Margaret Schonacher)

Fireclay does chip and crack more easily than metal. It also requires more maintenance to keep the glossy finish. But for a durable sink with vintage flair, fireclay is a great choice.

4. Granite Composite Sink

Composite granite sinks offer the look of real stone for less. Made by blending granite particles with acrylic resins, pros of composite granite sinks include:

Beautiful and unique patterns, similar to natural granite
Resistant to scratches, stains, and heat
More affordable than real stone
Easy to clean and maintain
Durable and long-lasting

Composite granite stands up well to heavy use and hot pans. The smooth surface resists chipping and cracking better than real granite. Composite sinks come in single and double basin options.

A deep black composite granite sink makes a dramatic statement. (Source: The Spruce / Michelle Kaminsky)

One downside is composite sinks can scratch or lose their shine over time. But they offer great value for the look of high-end stone on a budget.

5. Quartz Composite Sink

For a lighter look, quartz composite sinks are another great option. With the durability of granite but a more ethereal style, pros include:

Made with quartz particles for a harder surface
Resistant to scratches, stains, impact, and heat
Acrylic binder allows intricate shapes and designs
Variety of soft earthy tones like white, tan, and gray
Lower maintenance than natural stone
More affordable than quartz countertops

With integrated countertops, quartz sinks provide a smooth, seamless look. Quartz naturally resists bacteria growth better than other materials too.

A white quartz sink creates an airy, minimalist look. (Source: The Spruce / Michelle Kaminsky)

One consideration is quartz sinks can show light scratches over time. Regular cleaning is important to maintain their luminescence. Going with a professionally installed quartz sink ensures a perfect fit.

6. Solid Surface Sink

For a seamless, contemporary look, solid surface sinks integrate with their countertop. Made of materials like Corian or Swanstone, benefits include:

Completely non-porous, resisting stains and bacteria
Highly durable and impact-resistant
Easy to clean and maintain
Simple style suits modern kitchens
Matte finish hides scratches better
Can be cut, sanded, and repaired

With no seams or crevices, solid surface sinks are very hygienic and easy to keep spotless. The material is more flexible than stone and comes in many colors.

A minimalist white solid surface sink provides a clean, continuous look. (Source: The Spruce / Ana Bowman Design)

The major downside is solid surface scratches and stains more readily than stone. Extra care is needed to avoid abrasions. Integrated sinks also require professional installation. But for a fuss-free contemporary sink, solid surface is a smart choice.

7. Natural Stone Sink

For unique, eye-catching style, natural stone sinks stand out. Durable options like granite, marble, limestone, and soapstone have distinct benefits:

Unique patterns and color variations
Withstands heavy use over time
Stain and scratch-resistant
Adds luxurious, Old World character
Retains heat or cold to conserve energy
Antimicrobial properties

While expensive, natural stone sinks become enduring fixtures that add value. Opt for sturdy granite or soapstone to handle hot pans. Softer marble makes an elegant, classic statement.

A marble sink provides timeless elegance. (Source: The Spruce / Tessa Neustadt)

Stone is prone to staining and etching so requires sealing. Match your sink to countertops for a luxe, designer look. Going custom allows totally unique stone sinks perfect for your space.

8. Hammered Copper Sink

For Old World rustic charm, hammered copper sinks are a unique choice. Benefits include:

Warm, inviting antique style
Naturally anti-microbial
Develops patina over time
Can be custom-shaped
Matches copper cookware
Naturally heat-conductive

The rich, orangey sheen of copper makes it a special focal point. The hammered finish hides scratches and adds interest. Copper presents some considerations:

Expensive, especially for custom work
Requires frequent polishing to maintain shine
Not as hard as other metals so prone to dents
Can react with certain materials like brass

Keep a beeswax polish handy to easily buff out fingerprints and water spots on copper. Pair with natural stone or wood countertops to let the sink shine.

A round hammered copper bar sink adds retro flair. (Source: The Spruce / Tessa Neustadt)

The warm glow and artisanal look of copper make it worth the effort. Embrace the quirks of a copper sink to add character to your kitchen.

9. Porcelain Farmhouse Sink

Fireclay isn’t the only ceramic sink option—porcelain enamel sinks offer a similar classic appeal. Key benefits:

Mimics fireclay but often lower cost
Chip and stain-resistant smooth surface
Easy to clean and remove odors
Quieter and warmer than metal sinks
Fits with many kitchen aesthetics
Durable but can be damaged by impact

Porcelain enamel comes in white, biscuit, black, and other colors to suit your style. The glass coating resists chipping for years of beauty and service.

A black porcelain farmhouse sink makes a bold statement. (Source: The Spruce / Margaret Schonacher)

Porcelain enamel is prone to cracking or chipping from impacts. Avoid abrasive cleaners which could ruin the glossy finish. But with proper care, a porcelain sink remains beautiful for years. The affordable price makes it a great option.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Kitchen Sink

With so many kitchen sink options available, keep these key factors in mind when selecting one for your remodel:

Installation Type

Top-mount – sink rim rests on the countertop. Easy to install but seam visible.
Undermount – sink attaches below for a seamless look. Harder installation.
Integrated – sink and countertop are one continuous piece. Seamless, sleek style.

Material

Stainless steel – durable, affordable, easy to clean, prone to noise
Enameled cast iron – even heat retention, chip-resistant, heavy
Fireclay – vintage styling, chip-resistant, antimicrobial
Composite – mimics stone, durable, prone to scratching
Natural stone – gorgeous but requires sealing, expensive
Copper – antimicrobial, develops patina, requires polishing

Features

Number of basins – single, double, or triple bowls
Depth – standard or extra deep sink base
Drainboards – provide additional drying space
Accessories – bottom grids, strainers, cutting boards
Faucet – bar/prep, pull-down, touchless, filtration
Specialty features – soap dispensers, hot water dispenser

Popular Kitchen Sink Styles

Beyond the material, the overall style of your sink impacts its look and functionality. Consider what design would best suit your kitchen.

Farmhouse – Exposed front apron, typically single large basin. Works with traditional or rustic decor.

Apron Front – Front lip but no skirt. Available in stainless steel or ceramic. Matches contemporary to classic styles.

Undermount – Installed below countertop for minimalist look. Best for modern, clean aesthetics.

Integrated – Countertop and sink are one continuous piece. Ultra-contemporary option.

Inset – Sink base fits into opening cut into countertop. Traditional appearance.

Vessel – Sink sits on top of counter like a bowl. Stylish focal point. Not as functional.

Bar/Prep – Compact size perfect for kitchen islands. Also great utility/laundry sinks.

Corner – Triangle or L-shape fits nicely into a corner. Maximizes space utility.

Dual Mount – Combines undermount and top-mount seamlessly. Provides versatile installation.

Design Tips for Your Kitchen Remodel

Choose sink depth based on your needs – deeper is better for large pots and pans
Make sure your sink fits well with the existing cabinetry and countertop cutouts
Complement other materials like faucet, cabinet hardware, and backsplash
Opt for bottom grids or rinsing baskets to protect sink surfaces
Include built-in accessories like soap dispensers for added convenience
Invest in a high-quality faucet with useful features like pull-down sprayer
Consider a second prep or bar sink for additional washing space
Look for smart sink features like insulation to reduce condensation

FAQ About Kitchen Sinks

What is the most popular kitchen sink material?

Stainless steel is the most common kitchen sink material. It offers great durability at an affordable price point. It also pairs well with most kitchen designs from traditional to contemporary.

What is the best sink for the money?

Composite granite or quartz sinks provide high-end style at a fraction of the cost of natural stone. For a budget-friendly option with serious durability, enameled cast iron is hard to beat. Stainless steel also offers quality construction for the price.

Should I get a single or double bowl kitchen sink?

This often comes down to personal preference. Double bowl sinks allow you to multitask – washing veggies in one side while dirty dishes soak in the other. But a large single bowl provides more room for pots, pans, and baking sheets.