The Basics of Choosing the Right Bathroom Basin

Although it may be one of the rooms we spent the least amount of time in, the bathroom is a space for rejuvenation and relaxation. Making your bathroom a cosy and functional place is important so you can enjoy your warm bath after a hard day, start your day with a fresh morning routine or make the performance of your life (“I don’t sing in the shower, I perform”). Choosing the right bath supplies can make a big difference in the room, and some finishing touches can help you create a dreamy bathroom.

However, it’s the big fixtures that will have the most effect on the look and functionality of your bathroom, like for instance the basin. Whether you’re just replacing an old basin or designing the bathroom from scratch, taking the time to choose one that you’ll love to look at and use every day is definitely worth it. With the wide range of designs and shapes available, it can be very easy to make your basin a focal point of your bathroom.

Type

Vanity Basins

Characterised by sitting in full view on top of a bench, vanity or shelf, these modern basins are also commonly referred to as bench mount, vessel, top mount, statement, and countertop basins. Besides being functional, these basins are immensely decorative, designed to be the focal point to easily set the style and tone for the rest of the room. With the body of the basin on full display, you can show off its beautiful design characteristics, colour and profile – a great way to make a statement.

Because of the wide range of vanity basins available, you can find the perfect design for every bathroom style. For instance, you may consider a smaller ornate piece to make an amazing addition to a powder room or guest bathroom. For the main bathroom, you can opt for a larger and more generous bowl or even two pieces that can look particularly stunning when placed side by side.

Vanity basins can be installed pretty easily, only requiring a small cut-out for waste in the benchtop with the basin secured in place by silicon and the plug and waste. With the right tools, you can do this project all by yourself. Just make sure to leave at least 50mm between the rear of the basin and your wall for ease of cleaning.

Undermount

This type of bathroom sink sits underneath the counter. This design means that your sink is flush with the counter material, meaning less chance of dirt and debris being caught in between. Aesthetically, it’s also visually appealing as the sink does not intrude with the natural material of your countertop, as much of it is underneath the countertop. These sinks are available in a variety of sizes, and your cabinet size can determine the right option for you. They’re perfect for smaller bathrooms because they don’t cram the space visually.

Semi-Recessed

These basins for bathrooms sit on top of a unit but are projecting or hanging over the front. Semi-recessed basins can be a great way to give your bathroom a contemporary and stylish look. This type is often used in larger bathrooms when part of a unit layout. But it can also be useful for smaller bathrooms, allowing you to incorporate extra storage.

Wall-Mounted

If your bathroom doesn’t have a vanity, wall-mounted basins are the perfect solution for you. This type is fixed directly to the wall and doesn’t require a vanity for installation. They are sometimes referred to as cloakroom basins or small sinks. Being highly versatile in design, they are the ideal choice to use in small bathrooms, ensuites and cloakroom, serving as ultra-modern space savers.

Style & Shape

When choosing the right basin for your bathroom, you also need to decide on the style. You may go for a classic look, something soft-edged and organic, or perhaps minimalist and contemporary. Whichever you decide, make sure it goes well with the rest of your bathroom fixtures.

Bathroom basins are available across a variety of timeless rectangular, square, soft-square, round, oval and many other designs. The shape you choose depends on the space available, your vanity design, as well as your personal preferences.

Material

Bathroom basins are usually made of porcelain. If you opt for a model made from high-quality china with a high gloss finish, you can ensure durability and quality. Porcelain sinks have been known to withstand the wear of time and with proper care, can easily last a lifetime. They also require low maintenance: you can gently clean them with warm water, liquid soap and a sponge.

Solid surface basins are also a sturdy and durable alternative since their surface is not brittle or fragile. The fact that they are very difficult to crack or break makes them a very durable and long-lasting alternative.

Stainless steel is also becoming a popular material option, especially for bathrooms with bolder designs. These basins are known for being durable, long-lasting and very cost-effective. When it comes to stainless steel, you might want to opt for lower gauge steel as this number determines the thickness and as such the longevity. The lower the number, the thicker the steel, resulting in a more durable sink.

Colour

The most common colour of porcelain basins is white, but today’s modern designs offer a plethora of colours available to complement your bathroom. Stainless-steel basins can be found in matte black, brushed brass, brushed nickel and gunmetal finishes, which makes them highly versatile when it comes to unique colour choices.