Vessel Sinks Capture A Timeless Look
With all the options for materials, shapes and styles of vessel sinks
,it is possible to create a unique and individual bathroom.The elegant look of a vessel sink brings to mind a classic Roman villa. A trendy new design in bathrooms, they are based on an old concept. In all the millennia before indoor plumbing became the norm, people used a bowl of water on a table to wash themselves. The water had to be carried in from a well or spring, and the used water went out the nearest window. Washbowls were usually in the bedroom, where a person groomed and dressed themselves.
As indoor plumbing became the norm rather than the exception, a separate bathroom evolved. Sinks were often set on a pedestal, or mounted on the wall, which facilitated drainage. Increased storage needs for hairdryers, cosmetics and other products in the mid to late 20th century led to the concept of a bathroom vanity with cupboards and drawers.
The new vessel sinks have the same look as those ancient washbasins, a lovely bowl on an attractive wooden cabinet, but are fitted with a drain and equipped with running water.
The taps are not attached to the sink itself, but are attached to the cabinet or the wall. There are many styles of faucets to choose from, which can complement any decor or vessel sink. Finishes come in chrome, burnished nickel, pewter, gold and copper.
Vessel sinks themselves come in a variety of materials. Beautiful, durable granite is a popular choice. It comes in a wide spectrum of colors, textures, and finishes, and brings a sense of nature and earthiness to the bathroom. They come in several striking shapes as well as the simple round bowl, including oval, square and rectangular. Some are deep; others are shallow.
Another lovely option is the glass bowl. These come in both tempered and fused glass, and in a beautiful array of colors. Glass vessel sinks offer a luminosity and elegance which harmonize with many bathroom decors. Like the stone sinks, glass bowls come in a huge variety of shapes and finishes, including hand-painted and foiled designs.
Vessel sinks are offered in many other materials. Metals such as copper, brushed nickel and bronze add a distinctive flair. Besides granite, limestone and other stones lend a sense of permanence. The graceful beauty of porcelain is a classic touch. Woods such as bamboo, teak, oak and amberwood bring a feeling of a spa or sauna to the bath. The beauty of these vessel sinks is more that of a sculpture or work of art than a mere sink.
With all the options for materials, and the almost limitless variety of shapes and styles of vessel sinks, combined with the styles and varieties of faucets and cabinets available, it is possible to create a unique and individual bathroom.
by: Christine Harrell