Author: Kristina Ferrigan

Bar sinks may be small, but they offer a big opportunity to elevate the style of your space. Whether part of a dedicated home bar, a coffee station, or a secondary prep area, selecting the right bar sink involves a certain fun factor, while still balancing practical considerations.

“My general thought is to have fun with it, it’s a bar. It’s meant to entertain — so consider unique shapes, materials and finishes,” Normandy Design Manager Ashley Noethe says. “But it’s important to understand how a bar sink will be used. While bar sinks are typically designed for lighter tasks like rinsing glassware, filling pitchers, or handling quick cleanup, you have to think about the items and liquids you’ll tossing in there, and who will be using it.”

For instance, hammered metal sinks like copper, nickel, and stainless steel are popular for their texture and visual interest, but can scratch, so be careful with the knife you just cut limes with, Ashley notes. Enameled finishes may show marks, and natural stone can be sensitive to acidic substances like wine or citrus, which can cause etching and stains.

“Be sure to run the water when you pour out certain liquids, and also hot liquids like coffee, depending on the sink material,” Ashley says. “A composite sink is most durable, but if you choose something more luxurious like a fireclay sink with a precious metal glaze, you have to schedule regular maintenance to preserve its appearance. And when choosing a material, consider not only your habits, but the habits of friends and family, kids — and your friend’s four-year-old too.”

Shapes can range from classic round and rectangular to more unconventional forms, making the bar area an ideal place to try something unique.
 
Proportion is another key factor. Because bar areas are often compact, the sink should be scaled appropriately. “If you only have five feet, don’t take up two of it with a sink,” Ashley says. “A smaller, well-proportioned sink keeps the space functional without overwhelming the countertop.”

Finally, don’t overlook installation logistics. Even though bar sinks are smaller, their plumbing requirements are the same as a full-size sink. If you’re adding one in a new location, running water lines and drainage can increase project costs.

“A bar sink is like a fun piece of jewelry, an accent that’s upping the vibe of the design,” Ashley says. “Just consider how you’ll use the sink, choose materials that match your lifestyle, keeping scale and maintenance in mind, and you can select a bar sink that’s both practical and a standout design feature.”

If you’d like to discuss adding a home bar or secondary sink area as part of your home renovation project, set up a time to meet with a Normandy Designer. For more kitchen and home bar designs, visit our photo gallery or visit our Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest or TikTok pages.