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When I am designing a traditional kitchen I love to focal point a farmhouse sink because it really makes a dramatic statement. Farmhouse sinks are very popular in today’s kitchens which is understandable due to their ergonomic no-nonsense design that dates back to the 17th century.
The History of the Farmhouse Sink
The farmhouse sink style was designed to hold large amounts of water which was manually carried in with buckets, from lakes and rivers because running water had not been invented yet. This eliminated several back and forth trips to the water source. The first two original styles were the Belfast sink from Ireland and the London from Britain. The Belfast was made deep and designed with an overflow that allowed the excess water to drain out easily. The London sink had no overflow and was shallower.
The farmhouse sink style, also known as an apron front sink speaks to a time in history when is was used to scrub large pots, cleaning clothes and even washing children. It had to be sturdy and hold up to the industrial use it was put through. That is why it is popular in homes today with avid cooks. Its large size allows for stock pots and platters. The depth of the basin reduces the chances of splashing water, giving ample room to work in. The design of the apron front with its forward orientation eliminates the countertop, bringing the work basin closer to the user and avoiding back strain. The sink was designed for work but now is a desired focal point in today’s kitchens.
Farmhouse style sinks are not just for traditional style anymore, they have morphed into contemporary and transitional designs as well.
As one of the K+B Insiders and NKBA trendspotter for 2016, I wanted to introduce you to the latest disruption to the farmhouse sink scene. BLANCO, the German manufacturer of finely made sinks and faucets just released their SILGRANIT apron front sink. Blanco is right on trend with its Anthracite finish as I saw at the KBIS 2016 Show and ICFF in NYC this year.
The three colors available in the IKON sink are Anthracite, White and Café Brown and later this Fall it will be available in all 8 SILGRANIT colors.
SILGRANIT is a new material that I have just been introduced to. SILGRANIT was developed by Blanco and is a composite material made up of 80% granite and cast in a single pouring. Unlike natural granite, granite composite is not porous. This makes it resistant to staining, safe for all foods and fully hygienic. The front apron on a farmhouse sink needs to be tough due to its projection which allows you to lean upon it.
I can always count on Blanco to bring the latest in innovative kitchen sinks, faucets and accessories!
Images Courtesy of Canva.
More posts you might enjoy:
Bathroom Sinks for Every Style:
Tips to Modernize Your Kitchen
Cosentino’s Products – Fresh and Disrupting the Countertop World
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About the Author: Patricia Davis Brown
