Savvy Sinks and Faucets

Vessel or undermount? Spread-fit or single lever? Find a sink and faucet that match the style and size of your bathroom.

Available in models to fit any bath, above-counter bowl-style sinks carry a few design considerations. These seemingly freestanding bowls come in glass, porcelain, metal and wood and sit higher than the standard sink, so you need to adjust the countertop height accordingly. The faucet typically mounts on the wall and must be placed at the right height to minimize splashing. This half-vessel model requires a single-hole, sink-mounted faucet.

Ideal for vintage or traditional styled baths, freestanding sink tables come with legs and a built-in countertop. Some models have a built-in sink; others are designed for a vessel, undermount or drop-in sink addition. Plumbing is visible.

Installed in a countertop hole just smaller than its rim, undermount sinks seem to float beneath the counter for an uncluttered look and easy surface cleaning.

The easiest type of sink to install, the self-rimming sink features a rim that rests on the countertop; the basin drops below the counter.

These faucets have a separate spout and handles. They can be adapted to fit holes spaced several inches apart. For example, the spout can be placed on a rear corner, and the handles off to one side. These faucets are for tight installations where there is not enough room for a full faucet at the back of the sink.

These faucets have one spout and one handle that control the flow of both hot and cold water. They are ideal for people with limited mobility.

This faucet type attaches to the wall as opposed to the sink or the counter. These faucets were designed for unusually shaped sinks, such as vessels, or old-fashioned farm sinks modified for use in the bath.

(Source:HGTV)