Most homeowners and tenants want the biggest sink that will fit in their kitchen.
But they also want a lot of usable counter space.
Even a spacious basin can feel cramped if there’s not enough room to work around it.
So how do you balance the two, to create a highly functional kitchen?
30 inch kitchen sinks tend to be our best sellers (and our colleagues in the industry agree). They are arguably the most popular size. It’s big enough to give you plenty of basin space but fits comfortably in most kitchens.
Here’s how you can make the best use of space to give your next build a spacious and functional kitchen sink.
Keys to Creating a Functional Workspace with a 30 Inch Kitchen Sink
Without enough room to stack dishes or set up a cutting board nearby, even the roomiest sink will be frustrating to use.
So creating a good workspace is just as much about the space around the basin as the space inside the bowl.
If you’re still deciding whether a 30” sink will fit in your design, start by looking at where the plumbing rough-ins are placed.
How much space do you have on each side? Most residents will want at least 20”-24” of open counter space on at least one side of the sink. Bonus points if you can provide more room or clear space on both sides.
Remember to account for other appliances that will be going next to the sink. You may also need to line the basin up with other design elements like cabinets or a window. These considerations might impact your sink placement and available counter space.
You may be able to compensate for a tight space by choosing a workstation sink. Integrated accessories can provide extra room to work, making the sink area more comfortable and functional.
A 30” Undermount Stainless Steel Sink Is the Best Option for Most Multifamily Builds
Choosing the right basin is the best way to maximize your available space. So what does the right basin look like?
30 inch undermount kitchen sink
A 30 inch undermount sink will give you the best use of space.
The basin will sit flush (or almost flush) with the finished edges of the countertop, so you can make full use of the available basin space.
Without a lip sitting on top of the counter, the sink also won’t take up any unnecessary counter space. Plus, undermount sinks are more convenient because residents can sweep crumbs and debris directly into the sink.
Apron front kitchen sink
Apron front sinks extend all the way to the front edge of the counter, making the sink more comfortable to use. Most undermount sinks are about 3” from the front of the counter, while farm sinks have a more accessible position.
That makes them a great choice for residents such as elderly people or pregnant moms, who may have difficulty reaching or leaning while using the sink.
Plus, they’re very appealing to people who want a high-end kitchen. If you have the budget for it, a farmhouse sink with an apron front can make an eye-catching and stylish addition to many designs.
Stainless steel kitchen sinks
Stainless steel is the ideal material for almost all multifamily projects. It’s affordable, durable, and looks high-end. It’s also much less bulky than other materials like ceramic or cast iron. So you won’t be eating up inches with thicker materials.
If your project calls for a 30 inch kitchen sink drop in design, stainless will give you a low-profile option with a similar look to an undermount basin.
Tight or zero radius sink
Tight and zero radius sinks have sharp corners and straight edges. These designs look high-end and maximize usable space inside the basin. It’s also easier to stack dishes inside the sink without a curved shape making things unstable.
Single vs. double bowl kitchen sinks
When it comes to deciding between a single vs. double kitchen sink, there are strong arguments for both options.
A single bowl is the better choice in most cases, especially if you have strict space limitations. Most residents like the spacious, high-end look of a single basin, making it a win-win for many kitchen designs.
A double bowl sink adds a lot of versatility for daily use, which some people prefer. However, you’ll likely need to size up by an inch or two to fit a double basin, so it may not be an option if you need a sink that’s 30” or less.
You may be able to give residents the best of both worlds with an asymmetrical 30/70 sink, which has a roomy bowl on one side and a smaller bowl on the other. Just keep in mind that these are typically slightly larger, usually 32” or so.
At the end of the day, it’s going to come down to your budget and design specs, but it’s worth keeping double bowl sinks in mind.
Add Luxury to a 30” Sink with the Right Material and Finish
Once you’ve laid out a spacious and comfortable sink area, you can make it more appealing with the right materials.
Go with Soft Textures
Current kitchen design trends for 2024 are all about soft textures and warm, welcoming spaces.
So when you’re looking for the perfect 30” kitchen sink and a faucet to go with it, look for opportunities to incorporate satin, brushed, and matte finishes.
As you already saw, stainless steel is the ideal material for most builds. Although it’s higher-shine than stone composite or ceramic, stainless steel develops a patina over time, giving it a satin look people love.
You can also incorporate softer textures by choosing a faucet in brushed nickel or matte finishes.
Consider Gold and Black Finishes
Gold and black are the most in-demand colors for kitchen sinks and faucets in 2024.
As one of the most popular sizes, it’s fairly easy to find 30” stainless sinks in colors like gold and gunmetal. These unique basin colors will help your design stand out from the competition while giving your residents the durable, lasting beauty of stainless steel.
Gold and gunmetal are also more expensive than standard stainless.
Don’t have room in your budget for both a luxury faucet and basin? Consider pairing a cost-effective stainless steel basin with a black or gold faucet, or any faucet with a brushed or satin finish.
That way, your 30” kitchen sink will appeal to high-quality residents with a touch of luxury, without blowing your budget.
Now that you know what to look for, you can start your search for the perfect model. With plenty of space and luxurious materials, your clients will enjoy their kitchen for years to come.
Thank you for reading.
