Stainless steel sink with interchangeable apron front
Farmhouse Kitchen Sinks
 Farmhouse sinks, also known as apron-front sinks, are making a huge comeback in kitchens. This trend is partly due to the current popularity of farmhouse style interiors, where both vintage charm and functional design are treasured. Yet farmhouse sinks are crafted from a wide variety of materials and designs that fit in with just about every style of kitchen imaginable—whatever your heart desires—from mid-century modern to industrial chic.
The farmhouse sink originated in late 17th century Ireland and Britain when there was no running water. Since water had to be transported by hand from nearby wells, lakes and rivers, the farmhouse sink was valued for providing a basin that could hold large amounts of water.
Contemporary style fireclay sink
Today you will appreciate farmhouse sinks for providing a variety of other benefits. For one, these sinks tend to be considerably deeper than the typical undermount kitchen sinks and usually are designed with one large bowl. This offers plenty of room for washing baking sheets, large pots and pans, as well as oven trays—items that are a challenge to wash in a standard two-bowl sink. If you spend a lot of time cooking and doing clean up, you will be very grateful for this style of sink. Farmhouse sinks are also available in two-bowl designs, if you prefer.
Ergonomically, the farmhouse sink will cause you less back strain because of the front-forward design—the exposed front of the sink extends beyond the cabinetry. You will be able to stand directly against the basin without needing to lean over several inches of cabinet and counter space to wash your dishes. Plus the sink’s overhanging front eliminates those sharp countertop edges that can be uncomfortable. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the bottom of that deep sink may be inaccessible for someone who is seated.
 
Left: Quartz sink with carbon fiber apron front. Right: Papiro Cream Marble workstation sink with basket-weave pattern
A farmhouse sink is usually installed as an undermount sink, which allows water to drain back into the sink rather than sitting on your countertop. Certain styles of farmhouse sinks include drainage channels on the side that allow dishes to dry on your countertop without water puddling up. Make sure that when your farmhouse sink is installed, it overhangs the cabinets in the front to prevent water damage to the cabinets. Generally farmhouse sinks will not have a built-in location for the faucet, so the faucet needs to be mounted behind the sink, either in the countertop or in the wall.
 The materials used to create farmhouse sinks range from fireclay, porcelain, stainless steel and copper, to cast iron, stone, quartz and concrete. Fireclay and porcelain are both heavily favored selections due to their beautiful classic look, though fireclay in general is more durable. Stainless steel farmhouse sinks are also quite durable, relatively inexpensive, and offer a modern twist that fits in well with contemporary kitchen styles. No matter which material you choose, your farmhouse sink will become an attractive focal point, adding delightful charm to your kitchen.
Right: Enameled cast iron sink—wall-mount with legs or top-mount with custom cabinetry
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