Classic Kitchen Sinks With An Old Fashioned Flair

Old fashioned kitchen sinks evoke a simpler era in kitchen design. These vintage-inspired sinks offer understated beauty and old world appeal that never goes out of style.

From classic farmhouse sinks to ornate antique sinks, old fashioned models feature distinctive shapes, materials, and details that lend warmth and character to the heart of the home. Beyond just visual appeal, these sinks are often more durable and easier to maintain than many modern counterparts.

Defining Old Fashioned Kitchen Sinks

Old fashioned kitchen sinks umbrella a variety of vintage-inspired styles that were popular in the early 20th century and prior. Key defining features include:

• Traditional shapes like apron-front and farmhouse
• Materials such as fireclay, enamel, porcelain, and cast iron
• Distinctive designs like deep rectangular tubs, drainboards, rolled edges, soap dishes
• Ornate details including claw feet, decorative tiles, metalwork

These sinks typically have an uncomplicated, utilitarian look that suits kitchens aiming for a touch of old world charm. The most common styles include:

• Farmhouse - Rectangular sink basins with enclose apron frontpanel
• Apron-front - Sink attached to vertical frontpiece
• Trough - Extra long rectangular basin with two faucets
• Corner - L-shaped to fit in a corner
• Wall mount - Sink attached directly to the wall

Materials and Construction

Traditional fireclay and cast iron are two of the most popular materials for old fashioned sinks. Fireclay provides a glossy look plus stain and impact resistance. Cast iron offers durability and heat retention yet requires frequent re-enameling. Other vintage-style materials include:

• Solid copper - Expensive but naturally antimicrobial and resistant to corrosion
• Porcelain enamel - Glass coating over metal for a shiny, chip-resistant surface
• Nickel - Durable, lustrous metal resistant to rust and tarnishing

Enameled cast iron and fireclay tend to withstand heavy use better than other materials. The construction process also impacts durability. Handmade sinks will show more signs of use over time but add to the vintage look. Brands like Kohler and Elkay offer well-constructed reproductions.

Benefits of Old Fashioned Kitchen Sinks

Beyond aesthetics, old fashioned kitchen sinks offer a number of practical benefits including:

• Timeless appeal - Their classic styling does not fade with trends.
• Warmth and character - Vintage sinks provide personality and charm.
• Durability - Traditional materials like cast iron and fireclay are very long-lasting.
• Easy maintenance - Simple styles without complex parts are easy to clean.
• Versatility - They fit with various aesthetics from modern to farmhouse.

While they require more maintenance than stainless steel, their solid builds mean vintage sinks can serve a kitchen faithfully for decades. The smooth, non-porous materials also resist stains, etching, and build up. Old fashioned sinks also tend to have more customizable sizing options than modern mass-produced styles.

Nostalgic Charm

What old fashioned sinks may lack in practicality, they make up for in nostalgic charm and unique personality difficult to replicate in mass-produced sinks. Their quirks lend character and a sense of history to kitchen spaces. Drain grooves, rolled edges, and hammered copper finishes all provide vintage appeal.

Styling an Old Fashioned Kitchen Sink

Old fashioned sinks look best when paired with complementary faucets and accents that enhance their throwback style. Consider these tips for styling around a vintage sink:

• Choose vintage-look faucets like bridge or gooseneck styles
• Incorporate vintage accents like window curtains, soap dispensers, racks
• Paint or refinish to customize color
• Pair with traditional countertops like butcher block or marble
• Mix with modern elements like stainless steel for contrast

Farmhouse sinks look best with a tall contemporary faucet rather than a historically accurate hand pump or peg style. For a touch of kitsch, use brightly colored or patterned curtains. Open shelving, ceramic canisters, and wood cutting boards strengthen the old-meets-new look.

Design Compatibility

Farmhouse and apron sinks suit a variety of aesthetics including:

• Modern farmhouse
• Traditional cottage
• Rustic industrial
• Eclectic
• Retro

Their versatile styling allows incorporating old fashioned sinks in kitchens that blend new and old. For contemporary contexts, pair a fireclay farmhouse sink with matte black fixtures. Or inject easy vintage flair into a modern kitchen with a classic porcelain sink basin.

Installing and Caring for Old Fashioned Sinks

Proper installation and care helps vintage sinks remain functional and looking their best. Consider the following tips:

• Assess condition prior to installation, looking for cracks or damage
• Hire professionals for installation unless DIY savvy
• Follow any specific care guidelines for sink material
• Use non-abrasive cleaners to avoid dulling or wearing
• Take steps to prevent chipping around the sink edges

Due to their materials, old fashioned sinks are heavier than modern styles, making professional installation ideal. Check for level cabinets and reinforce as needed before installing. Use silicone along the back lip for stability.

Maintenance Essentials

Vintage sink materials require some maintenance to keep looking pristine. Porcelain enamel benefits from yearly re-enameling to protect from staining. Copper sinks should be cleaned with care using mild dish soap and soft cloth to prevent scratching the patina finish.

For cast iron and fireclay sinks, avoid:

• Abrasive cleansers that can wear the finish
• Leaving wet sponges/cloths that can cause rust
• Letting stains set before cleaning

Protect and restore enamel finishes by cleaning with baking soda monthly. For porcelain sinks, avoid using sink stoppers which can chip the surface over time.

Where to Shop for Old Fashioned Kitchen Sinks

The search for a vintage sink can be part of the fun. Prime spots to shop include:

• Antique stores and salvage yards
• Major retailers like Home Depot, Lowe's, Wayfair
• Specialty boutique plumbing supply stores
• Online sites like Signature Hardware, Vintage Tub & Bath

For a true antique, visit consignment stores, flea markets, classified ads, or estate sales. Be prepared to clean and restore an authentic vintage sink basin. Big box stores offer more contemporary reproductions of old styles at affordable price points.

Online sinks may arrive damaged in shipping, so inspect thoroughly and record unboxing. While more limited, local plumbing stores can help find a compatible vintage sink and faucet pairing.