Farmhouse and apron front sinks are a popular style of kitchen sink seen in many homes today. Characterized by their large, deep basins and exposed front panel, these sinks provide a vintage, rustic look perfect for modern farmhouse, industrial, and traditional style kitchens.
Farmhouse sinks get their name from early American farmhouses where a deep, wide sink was practical for washing large pots and stacks of dishes. The apron front describes the extra piece of material on the front of the sink that covers the cabinetry, making the sink look like it’s worn over the cabinet like an apron.
While very similar in look, farmhouse and apron front sinks do have some differences, which this article will explore in depth. We’ll cover the history, benefits, styles, installation, costs, and maintenance considerations for anyone interested in installing one of these statement sinks in their kitchen.
Farmhouse and apron front sinks have been around for centuries, originating in rural America and Europe. Early farmhouses required a practical sink for cooking, washing, and preparing food for large families. Sinks were made of materials at hand like stone, copper, or wood. Deep basins helped fit large items, and the ample workspace assisted with tasks like scrubbing vegetables.
The apron front descends from these early farmhouse sinks. The exposed front provided a finished look as cabinetry and built-in sinks became more common in the 20th century. Apron front sinks increased in popularity through the 70s, 80s, and 90s as homeowners gravitated to the vintage, rustic aesthetic. And while trends come and go, these sinks have maintained popularity through various design eras for their practicality and timeless style.
There are many benefits that make farmhouse and apron front sinks a popular choice:
But some drawbacks to consider as well:
Farmhouse and apron front sinks come in a range of materials, with different pros and cons:
Farmhouse and apron front sinks come in many different shapes, sizes, and configurations:
Installing and caring for a farmhouse or apron front sink requires some special considerations:
Many brands and manufacturers have perfected farmhouse and apron front sinks:
Farmhouse sinks range widely in price depending on size, materials, and brand.
The installation process also adds on an additional fee for alterations to cabinetry, countertops, and plumbing. Most homeowners spend $1,000 to $3,000 in total on materials, sink, and professional installation.
The main difference lies in the exposed front. Farmhouse sinks may simply have an exposed front panel. Apron front sinks have a front panel specifically designed to cover the cabinet face. Apron front panels are often slightly taller and wider than a standard exposed front.
Farmhouse sinks retain popularity going into 2023. Their vintage vibe pairs well with current trends for painted cabinets, natural wood accents, and farmhouse decor. While some move towards more modern, minimalist styles, many designers believe the farmhouse sink remains a timeless, flexible option.
Famed designer Joanna Gaines almost exclusively uses classic white farmhouse sinks in her renovations. She opts for large, deep single basin sinks from brands like Kraus. Joanna favors clean lines and practicality which farmhouse sinks deliver while matching her signature aesthetic.
The main drawbacks of farmhouse sinks are the heavy weight, limited cabinet compatibility, and messy look of a deep basin prone to showing spots and stains. Many also don’t work with garbage disposals or come in double bowl configurations. The large size and exposed front make for a trickier installation as well.
While still popular, some modern trends moving away from traditional farmhouse style include:
Stainless steel minimalism – Seamless stainless sinks with straight lines
Black accents – Black finish faucets and hardware
Metallic accents – Rose gold, brass, or copper fixtures
Concrete and stone – Unique composite sinks made with concrete or stone
Two-tone style – Mixing and matching sink, hardware, and cabinet finishes
The main difference is apron front sinks have an extra piece of material designed to cover the cabinet front, while farmhouse sinks simply refer to a sink with any type of exposed front. Farmhouse sinks may not have a finished “apron” look.
The most popular farmhouse sink size is the 33 inch wide single basin sink, which offers ample washing space while fitting in most existing cabinets. Other popular sizes are:
30 inch
36 inch
60/40 double bowl combo
Most choose farmhouse sinks for their distinctive single bowl look, but double bowl options offer more versatility. Double bowls are handy for keeping clean and dirty dishes separate while multitasking. Single bowls allow larger items and provide continuous surface area.
Farmhouse and apron front sinks don’t require much specialized care. Follow these tips:
Clean frequently with mild detergent
Rinse well and wipe bowls dry to avoid spots
Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads
Seal natural stone materials periodically
Don’t let water or wet dishes sit for extended periods
Use sink grids, racks, or liners to protect finishes
Proper care keeps these sinks looking like new for years of daily use. Their durable finishes resist most scratches, stains, and wear with regular cleaning.
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