In a time when kitchen design is favoring clean, streamlined looks and steering clear of excessive ornamentation and over-the-top opulence, personal touches are coming from unexpected sources. One of the ways that kitchen and bath designers are adding distinctive style – as well as the highest functionality – to these spaces is by incorporating sinks and faucets that make their own statements.

According to manufacturers recently surveyed by Kitchen & Bath Design News, the strong demand for the commercial look in the kitchen continues to influence sink, faucet and accessory design. Upscale consumers, however, are also insisting on beautiful and eco-friendly designs and technology. Stainless steel sinks are a bestseller, although demand for more unique sinks is on the upswing. And, when it comes to faucets and water accessories, many are thinking green while choosing from a broad variety of finishes and styles.

Sinks Get Professional and Personal

Designers and their clients continue to be attracted to the professional-looking kitchen, with its clean lines, uncluttered surfaces and flexible work stations. High-end amateur chefs want their work areas to be extremely functional, individualized and gorgeous. This attitude spills over to every aspect of the kitchen – including the sink.

“Much of today’s trends in kitchen sink design have a huge debt owed to the food service industry,” says Ken Fey, v.p./COO of Houzer in New Brunswick, NJ. “The commercial look of squared-off, 90-degree sinks is still strong.” Fey also notes, “Designs for residential kitchens have taken so many cues from commercial kitchens in recent years, the fallout has been a surge of user-friendly design applications in many product segments, including kitchen sinks.”

Ann Rottinghaus, marketing communications manager for Elkay in Oak Brook, IL, agrees. And, although many are opting for the professional look, she maintains that “personalization” is uptrending. Rottinghaus refers to this trend as “non-stock nation,” pointing out that it requires “unique, designer-oriented designs.”

Professional kitchens “have never been more popular,” she concurs. “Among the latest requirements [for kitchen sinks] are granite surfaces, just like those that top chefs around the world use.”

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