Expert Guide to Kitchen Sink Types, Materials, and Designs

When designing your dream kitchen in the Greater Chicago area, choosing the right sink is just as important as selecting beautiful countertops. As Chicagoland’s leading granite and quartz specialists, we’ve installed thousands of countertops with every type of kitchen sink imaginable.

Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or building from scratch, understanding the different types of kitchen sinks will help you make a choice you’ll love for years to come. Let’s explore the most popular kitchen sink options and how they pair with different countertop materials.

12 Different Types of Kitchen Sinks

From traditional drop in sinks to modern workstation designs, today’s kitchen sink options offer something for every style and budget. Let’s dive into the most popular sink styles that many homeowners are choosing for their kitchen renovations.

1. Undermount Sink

An undermount is installed directly under the counter, giving you a seamless transition between the countertop and sink. Undermount sink types look sleek and make cleanup easier at the surface level since there’s no sink lip there collecting debris. But debris can get stuck under the counter where the sink and countertop meet.

Curious how installation is done? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to install an undermount sink like a pro.

Pros:

• Easier cleanup
• Sleek and modern look
• Higher quality than overmount sinks

Cons:

• Debris can get stuck under the counter
• More expensive to purchase and install
• Undermounts require more space

2. Top-Mount Sink or Overmount Sink

What type of kitchen sink is most popular? Top-mount sink, also known as a self-rimming sink or an overmount sink, is one of the most common types of kitchen sinks found in the modern kitchen. This sink is installed from above. A hole is cut into the countertop and the sink is dropped down into the opening. Then, the rim is caulked to secure it.

Pros:

• Easy for DIYers to install
• The overall cost to purchase and install is low

Cons:

• Harder to clean
• Debris can collect on the rim
• Doesn’t offer a seamless look

3. Single Bowl Sink

These are types of sinks for kitchens that are technically a category of a sink, not a specific design. They include farmhouse or apron-style sinks and in-counter sinks. These types of sinks for kitchen styles don’t have a divided basin.

Pros:

• The single basin makes it easier to wash large dishes
• Ideal for larger households and those who like to cook from scratch
• Single basins give you the classic look of an apron sink

Cons:

• No room for a drying area
• The smaller size makes them less popular sink types

4. Double Basin Sink

When choosing the best type of kitchen sink, a double basin sink is worth a second look. These sinks are versatile and allow for dual purposes. One side can be used for drying or prep work, and the other for washing. Homeowners appreciate the convenience of a double basin sink.

Pros:

• Flexibility and convenience
• Useful for homes without a dishwasher

Cons:

• Not trendy
• The utilitarian appearance fits fewer home decors
• The sides may be too small to fully accommodate large dishware

5. Low Divider Double Basin Sink

What type of kitchen sink is best for your kitchen ultimately boils down to function and aesthetics. Low divider double basin sinks give you the convenience of a double basin sink, but the low divider eliminates the polarizing utilitarian look.

Pros:

• The flexibility of a double-basin sink without the utilitarian look
• A low divider allows water to spill over the top, accommodating larger dishware

Cons:

• Harder to find and therefore pricier
• Despite the low divider, very large pieces of cookware like broilers won’t fit

6. Bar Sink or Prep Sink

Bar or prep sinks are very small, usually about 15 inches in diameter. They are almost exclusively single basin sinks and are used as supplementary food prep stations or for bartending activities.

Pros:

• Are convenient, especially if you have a large kitchen and cook frequently
• Makes it easier for multiple people to prep food
• Excellent addition to the kitchen if you entertain often

Cons:

• Takes up countertop space
• A luxury item that may bust the budget
• Can be infrequently used

7. Integrated Sink

It’s a sink and countertop all in one. This kitchen sink type is typically made out of stone or ceramic. An integrated sink can elevate your kitchen to luxury status. While natural stone sinks are pricier, a ceramic-integrated sink combination is a more affordable option.

Pros:

• Gives your kitchen a higher-end, more luxurious feel
• Convenient to clean
• Easily sweep debris and liquid into the sink

Cons:

• Harder to find
• More expensive to install
• Can only repair, not replace a damaged integrated sink

8. Corner Sink

What types of kitchen sinks are there for small kitchens with limited countertop space? The corner sink is ideal for maximizing limited real estate in the kitchen. This design acts as a double basin sink, with one basin installed on each corner of the counter.

Pros:

• Maximizes utility in small kitchen spaces
• Unique design can make your kitchen pop

Cons:

• Requires customization
• More fragile design
• Harder and more expensive to install

9. Kitchen Island Sink

Kitchen islands are incredibly popular features for the modern kitchen. So, adding a kitchen island sink is a great addition to your kitchen island workstation. These types of kitchen sinks streamline your cooking workflow and can also save countertop space. If you’re thinking about installing this kind of sink, be sure to account for the increased cost of adding plumbing to the island.

Pros:

• Highly functional
• Saves countertop space
• Can easily converse while washing up

Cons:

• Installation is more expensive and complex
• Can make the kitchen island appear messy when full of dishware
• Won’t work with a smaller kitchen island

10. Farmhouse or Apron Sink

Farmhouse style, or apron sinks, extend over the edge of the countertop. These types of kitchen sinks bring a rustic, vintage vibe to the kitchen and they’re extremely popular and trendy. Usually, they’re made of fireclay or cast iron. These pricey, heavy sinks are great for accommodating large family gatherings and are easy to clean.

Pros:

• Easy to clean
• Accommodates large dishware easily
• Trendy and popular

Cons:

• Can be pricey
• Heavy and harder to install
• Require ample countertop space

11. Drainboard Sink

Drainboard sinks are usually made out of stainless steel. They’re environmentally friendly and easy to clean. When you want to know what are the best types of kitchen sinks for convenient cooking, it’s the drainboard sink. They have a built-in food prep area that you can also use to dry dishware. Excess water simply runs down into the sink.

Pros:

• Most convenient design
• Eco-friendly
• Easy to clean
• Keeps countertops dry and clean

Cons:

• Requires more countertop space
• The look only fits certain kitchen styles
• More expensive since this sink type is considered a specialty item

12. Workstation Sinks (a.k.a. Chef Sinks)

This is a rising trend in premium and high-function kitchens, especially in urban condos and suburban new builds. These sinks feature built-in ledges that hold accessories like colanders, cutting boards, drying racks, and trays, turning the sink into a prep station.

Pros:

• Maximizes workflow efficiency
• Reduces countertop clutter
• Highly customizable for modern kitchens

Cons:

• Expensive and often custom
• Takes up more vertical cabinet space

Kitchen Sink Materials: What Works Best

When selecting the best sink for your kitchen, material matters just as much as style. Each kitchen sink material offers unique advantages in durability, heat resistance, and maintenance. Whether you’re torn between porcelain vs. stainless steel sinks, or considering something more modern like composite granite, this side-by-side guide will help you decide with confidence.

Material	Pros	Cons
Stainless Steel Sink	Durable, affordable, easy to clean	Can scratch, noisy, shows spots
Composite Granite Sink	Stylish, heat/scratch-resistant, quiet	More expensive, may chip
Cast Iron Sink	Timeless, enamel finish, strong	Very heavy, enamel can chip
Fireclay Sink	Great for farmhouse sinks, stain-resistant	Premium price, limited styles, heavy
Copper Sink	Antimicrobial, unique patina, eco-friendly	High maintenance, costly, sensitive to acids
Porcelain Sink	Classic, glossy, heat-resistant	Can chip or crack under impact

Every material has its place — from rustic copper to sleek fireclay. But for many homeowners, stainless steel remains the most practical and cost-effective choice. It fits nearly any kitchen design and stands up to daily use with ease.

Perfect Sink and Countertop Combinations

Pairing the right sink with your countertop material creates a cohesive, stunning kitchen design. Let’s explore the most successful combinations we’ve installed throughout Chicagoland.

With Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops offer incredible versatility and pair beautifully with multiple sink options. The non-porous surface of quartz makes cleaning simple, while its durability complements both traditional and modern sink styles. Here are our top recommendations for quartz pairings:

• Undermount stainless steel: Shows off the quartz edge beautifully and creates a timeless look.
• White composite sinks: Create stunning contrast with dark quartz while maintaining easy maintenance.
• Integrated quartz sinks: Ultimate seamless appearance that maximizes the luxury feel.

With Granite Countertops

Granite’s natural beauty deserves a sink for granite countertops that enhances rather than competes with its character. The key is selecting sinks that complement granite’s organic patterns and rich colors. Our most popular granite combinations include:

• Undermount stainless steel: Classic and timeless choice that never goes out of style.
• Composite granite sinks: Coordinate colors for a cohesive look that feels intentional.
• Farmhouse fireclay: Perfect for traditional granite patterns and creates a stunning focal point.

With Marble Countertops

Marble countertops call for sink choices that honor its refined aesthetic. The goal is selecting sinks that enhance marble’s natural beauty without overwhelming its delicate veining. These combinations work flawlessly:

• Undermount stainless steel: Won’t compete with marble’s natural beauty and maintains focus on the stone.
• White fireclay farmhouse: Complements marble’s elegant aesthetic while adding functional charm.
• Small bar sinks: Perfect for marble islands and provide convenient secondary prep space.

Key Installation Factors to Consider

Installing the perfect kitchen sink involves more than just choosing a style you love. Proper planning ensures your new sink functions beautifully for years to come. Let’s walk through the essential considerations that will make your installation smooth and successful.

• Support requirements: Light sinks like stainless steel need standard cabinets. Heavier cast iron or farmhouse sinks require reinforced support. Composite sinks often fall in between and may need added bracing.
• Plumbing adjustments: Standard replacements are usually easy. But farmhouse sinks and island sinks may need pipe relocation, which can increase costs.
• Timeline considerations: Drop-in sinks go in after the countertop. Undermount sinks must be installed during fabrication. Farmhouse sinks require cabinet cuts before any stone work.
• Hire the right pros: Professional Installation makes the difference between a beautiful, long-lasting result and costly problems down the road.

At Granite Selection, we not only fabricate and install premium countertops — we also help with proper sink installation to ensure lasting performance and beauty.

Transform Your Kitchen with the Perfect Sink Choice

What type of kitchen sink is best? It’s the one that fits your budget, counter space, lifestyle, and personal aesthetic. Start with your basic, most practical needs for a sink, and then work your way up to the style that most fits your kitchen decor and personal tastes.

At Granite Selection, we offer the largest selection of countertops and kitchen sinks in the Chicago area. Our experts can help you visualize how different options will look in your space and provide guidance based on our decades of experience in Chicagoland kitchens. Reach out to us today to get a quote, and let’s start designing your dream kitchen!