Sink and Swim

Designers See Demand for Diverse Bath Sink and Faucet Options

While designers throughout the industry report diverse regional trends in bath sinks and faucets, demand for a variety of choices remains key. Indeed, whether clients want a traditional look, as in the North and Midwest, or a modern and transitional style, as in the Northeast or West Coast, designers say their clients are all about having choices, and lots of them.

“As far as finishes go, brushed nickel is probably one of the most popular,” says designer Chelsea Leitterman of St. Louis, MO-based Modern Kitchens and Baths.

“The oil-rubbed bronze finish is also definitely popular,” states Richard Ourso, CKD and CAPS-certified, of Baton Rouge, LA-based Ourso Designs, LLC.

However, designers see polished chrome also gaining ground. “The oil-rubbed bronze is still popular, but polished chrome is coming back,” declares Debra Tan of Debra Tan Designs, active in NY and CT.

“I think chrome will make a comeback. If people are more concerned about the dollars they spend, basic chrome [is a good option],” states James Kreipe, CKD, CR, president and owner of Portland, OR-based Square Deal Remodeling Company.
Designers see diversity in sink styles as well. “We’re starting to see some vessel bowls, and it seems like most people are using the vessel bowls in low traffic areas versus an everyday bathroom,” declares Ourso.

“The surface mounted and semi-surface mounted sinks are definitely a trend that’s still popular. Instead of doing full surface mounts, I’m seeing people doing semi-surface mounts so the sink is a little more integrated into the countertop,” pronounces Tan.

“We do a lot of granite tops with porcelain undermount sinks,” says Leitterman.

White, bisque and bone shades are still the most popular choices in sinks, designers agree.

“I’m seeing more of the white ceramic, white porcelain or bisque porcelain sinks,” explains Tan.

“I’m seeing a lot of glass. In fact, I’m doing a project right now where we’re combining a glass sink and concrete counter with a wall-mounted faucet, which is a little different,” adds Kreipe.

Designers are also seeing less ornate styles and simpler designs. “The lines in sink and faucet designs are getting cleaner and less fussy. I’m seeing cleaner and simpler lines and simpler finishes,” adds Tan.

“I’m definitely seeing less ornate styles,” affirms Leitterman.

“People are having a little bit of fun with their faucets. I’m seeing more modern and transitional, even the creation of an Asian spa feeling in some,” says Tan.

Still, designers see traditional style sinks and faucets through a majority of the country. “The homes in our location are generally traditional type housing, so the sink and faucet follows. We do some contemporary, but most is traditional,” explains Leitterman.

— Amanda O’Mahony