vessel sinks...centuries-old design for today

One of the newer trends in bathroom fixtures is vessel sinks, yet the concept is actually inspired by centuries-old design. Long before there was the luxury of running water, china washbasins were set on countertops or dressers, often with a pitcher alongside.

Today, there is are myriad choices in vessel sinks...ranging from one-of-a-kind handblown glass vessels, to marble, wood, stainless, porcelain, cast iron, frosted glass, and more. And the good news is that a vessel sink can be an affordable option for freshening up the look of a tired powder room in an existing home, just as it is the focal point of a bathroom in new construction. Vessel sinks can sit on just about any countertop...whether a vintage dresser, marble-topped apothecary case, or even an antique Victrola cabinet. And they tend to be the focal point, especially in a small powder room, so the cabinetry that they sit on really becomes secondary.


For those who have a concern that installing a vessel sink may “date” their bathroom, bath designers affirm that the vessel sink style will assuredly be a trend that becomes the standard. “It’s a classic design... now part of the design ethic...and far beyond a fad.”

Wilkinson Builders has noticed that more and more homebuyers are choosing to add this focal point to their bathroom designs; not just choosing vessel sinks for powder rooms, but additionally, incorporating the concept into the design of owner's baths and guest suites as well.