There is a wide selection of bathroom sinks out there, each with its own aesthetic and method of installation, which is why it is important to choose the right one, especially for a workplace or commercial washroom. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know before choosing the perfect sink for your bathroom, highlighting the features that differentiate each type of sink, from their designs to their materials and function.
Choosing a basin material
Ceramic
Considered one of the most common and most popular materials for basins, ceramic sinks offer a range of different benefits and are ideal for both domestic and commercial washrooms. Not only is it a durable material, guaranteed to last a long period of time, but it’s also easy to clean and stain-proof, perfect for busy workplaces which have high foot traffic or schools and nurseries.
Acrylic
Acrylic sinks can be shaped and moulded into any shape or size and are extremely lightweight, offering businesses and customers a great sense of flexibility and creativity when it comes to adding a unique aesthetic. However, its plastic substance also presents a range of disadvantages such as not being as durable as ceramic or marble options, being scratched easily by rough materials and potential burn marks. These are however a great option if you’re looking to add something a little different into your space and know the ins and outs when it comes to maintenance.
Stone
Most stone basins tend to be marble and as a result, are considered a more luxury option with a higher price tag. Marble sinks are more expensive than their ceramic counterparts, however, due to their strength, do provide a long-lasting product which is also super easy to clean and maintain. Due to their prestigious construction and finish, stone basins are often found in commercial spaces such as spas, private clubs or leisure facilities in order to meet the expectations of clientele and create a more high-end experience.
The different types of sink basins
Pedestal
A pedestal basin is a classic bathroom sink that features a basin mounted on a freestanding pedestal. This design hides things such as unattractive plumbing and creates a clean, traditional look, making it ideal for bathrooms with a timeless style or a simplistic finish. The pedestal itself doesn’t typically support the sink but enhances the aesthetic.
Wall-hung
Wall-hung basins are mounted directly to the wall, offering a minimalist and modern look which can also save space and material usage. Without the need for a supporting pedestal or vanity unit, these basins help to preserve floor space, making them ideal for small offices or single-use cubicles. This type of sink also provides easy access to the floor, meaning cleaning and maintenance can be achieved without any obstacles.
Countertop
Sitting on top of a vanity or counter and offering a striking, high-end look, countertop basins create a focal point in the bathroom with their stylish, bold appearance and multi-use construction. Countertop basins are available in a range of shapes and materials, making them a great choice for those looking to customise a washroom design and add something slightly more premium. Their elevated position also allows for more storage space within the vanity which can be used for toiletries and spares.
Semi-recessed basins
Semi-recessed basins are partially built into a vanity unit or counter, with the front of the basin extending outwards. This structure allows for a deeper basin without taking up too much counter space. Semi-recessed basins are ideal for washrooms with limited depth but require plenty of storage underneath which can often be helpful in busy commercial areas where toiletries have to be popped up regularly.
Inset
This sleek, integrated style offers a clean and modern aesthetic that fits well in contemporary bathroom designs. Inset basins are fully recessed into a vanity unit or counter, creating a seamless, flush appearance that also maximises counter space. Their built-in design also makes them highly functional for everyday use, especially in bathrooms where space efficiency is key and there is a constant flow of users.
Corner basins
Corner basins are designed to fit snugly into a corner, making them an excellent option for small bathrooms where space is limited, often found in places such as pubs, shops or small offices. By utilising otherwise wasted corner space, these basins free up room for other fixtures or storage.
Washplane
Washplane basins are ultra-thin, minimalist sinks designed primarily for handwashing. Their sleek design features a flat surface with a discreet water channel, offering a modern and luxurious aesthetic, making them perfect for high-end, minimalistic areas.
Freestanding basins
Freestanding basins are a bold, sculptural bathroom feature that stands alone, unattached to any walls or counters. These basins are perfect for creating a statement in larger spaces, combining contemporary design with a more premium atmosphere. Freestanding basins offer a unique aesthetic that is both elegant and functional, making them a popular choice for commercial places such as spas, salons and customer-focused businesses.
Vanity Units installed by Inspired Washrooms
At Inspired Washrooms, we offer a huge range of commercial washroom products including commercial vanity units for office toilets, school toilets, warehouse toilets or any other commercial environment.
We’re able to get commercial vanity units delivered across the whole of the UK including Birmingham, Derby, Leicester and London, offering dedicated fitting teams dotted around the country to get them installed quickly and to a highly professional standard.
Call us on 0115 671 3774 today and we’ll be happy to help with your enquiry.