What is an Apron Sink?

Well designed kitchens feature a high-performing and stylish sink. But what style of sink best suits your home?

Key Summary

There are many types of kitchen sinks and designs. If you want a deeper sink with a large water capacity, an apron front sink is a versatile and aesthetically appealing choice.  You can stand closer to the front of an apron sink and lean less to wash things. 

The front of an apron sink will slightly overhang to help prevent water damage to the cabinetry below. Apron sinks are visually beautiful and popular in design conscious kitchens of today.

What is an Apron Sink?

An apron sink is a sink style in which the basin bowl is the front edge that faces into the kitchen, rather than a traditional sink that is inserted into or under cabinetry. If you require a deep sink with a large water capacity, an apron front sink is a versatile and aesthetically appealing choice. 

An apron sink is synonymous with a farmhouse kitchen design. Yet they are slightly different in design to a farmhouse sink in that apron sinks are more versatile in a range of non-traditional decors including modern, minimalist and industrial styles.

What is an apron sink made out of? In today’s kitchens, apron sinks are available in many materials including stainless steel, marble, ceramic, porcelain, concrete, copper and fireclay. 

The exposed apron front can also be another chance to showcase design features and might include a chiselled front, hammered or smooth surface, fluted front, raised front lips, checkered or pinstripe patterns and even intricate designs such as flowers and other motifs.

Apron Sink vs Standard: What’s the Difference?

There are several key differences between an apron sink and a standard sink including size, installation and configuration.

Size

Standard sinks have a smaller water capacity than apron sinks due to their smaller size and depth. You can stand against the front edge (or apron) of an apron sink, while you will have to slightly lean over to access a standard sink.

Installation

A standard sink is typically installed via under-mount, top mount or drop-in or even flush-mounted as one unit. An apron sink is installed over a cupboard or cabinet with a sink access-notch cut out to accommodate the front apron.

Configuration

Standard sinks regularly feature single, triple or double bowls as well as drainers on one or both sides. Apron sinks are more commonly a single bowl configuration. However, there are many double bowl options and some triple bowls on the market. Drainers are not common, but can be added to your adjoining benchtops if desired.

What Are the Advantages of Having an Apron Sink?

There are many advantages to installing an apron sink, including:

Design

There are many choices of apron sinks available today, including an array of materials, textures and colours to choose from. When you have more choices, decor is easier to match. 

Whether you think of them as an apron or farmhouse sink, their distinctive charm and function make them a timeless choice – even in modern kitchens.

Function

Apron sinks are multi-functional—their depth and size make them suitable for many cleaning tasks. For prolific entertainers and chefs, size makes an apron sink a practical choice for clearing space quickly and is easy to wash large pots, pans and trays.

Their function also extends to sturdiness—apron sinks are robust and their overhang protects the cabinetry below.

Ergonomics

An apron sink juts out from the counter without bench space in front of it so you can stand right up against it. This is a more upright and ergonomic position for your body than the slight lean you must adopt to access a traditional sink.

Are There Any Disadvantages to an Apron Sink?

The main considerations concerning apron sinks surround installation and cost.

Installation

Apron sinks are heavier than a standard sink and if retrofitting, may require additional reinforcement to existing cabinetry.

Depth

Some people may break more dishes in an apron sink. This is accurate if you are used to a smaller, traditional sink and not yet used to washing in a deeper bowl. So when transitioning to this style, be aware.

Cost

Apron sinks typically attract a high price tag due to the additional labour required for installation and the cost of their robust manufacturing. Marble and copper will be the most costly, while fireclay and stainless steel are less expensive.

Need Advice Choosing an Apron Sink? Our Expert Team is Happy to Help.

When it comes to a new kitchen, the right sink is an important design decision. At Mint Kitchens we can guide your selection and help you choose right the first time. Connect with us today!

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