Interior design is often no different from fashion when it comes to trends, which often come full circle. The vessel sink is a vintage design that has been making its way back to bathroom vanities. They look phenomenal and add another layer of customization to your bathroom. So, why did they disappear in the first place? Here’s what’s so special about the vessel sink, and maybe you’ll get inspired with ideas to add your own.

The Origin Story

If you think about it, vessel sinks were basically the OG in sink design. It was created purely for utility—a simple bowl resting on a surface to do washing. They were made from materials like granite, marble, or soapstone, and were heavy and difficult to shape. While they served their purpose, they were prone to chipping and cracking, making maintenance a challenge for early homeowners.
Over time, home design began integrating sinks into countertops to create a seamless look.

Since they’re concave, they were much easier to clean and stuck around for decades. Of course, if you’ve ever walked into a fancy restaurant or hotel bathroom, you may have seen they’re a trend that’s still very much alive. As homeowners are customizing their spaces, these sinks can elevate the space, giving it a luxurious and spa-like look and feel.

A Vessel Sink: Defining Elegance

Unlike conventional sinks that are mounted within the counter, vessel sinks rest gracefully atop the surface. They can be made from several types of materials including porcelain, glass, stone, and metal. They also come in modern rectangle shapes and classic bowl shapes.

Breaking the Mold: Why Vessel Sinks Stand Out

What sets vessel sinks apart from their traditional counterparts is their ability to defy convention and make a bold statement in any bathroom. While standard sinks blend into the countertop, vessel sinks offer an attention-grabbing element. Whether you prefer a sleek, minimalist design or a more intricate, artisanal look, vessel sinks give you plenty of versatility.

Space-Saving Elegance: The Practical Appeal of Vessel Sinks

By sitting on top of the counter, these sinks free up valuable space underneath, creating opportunities for additional storage or enhancing the visual spaciousness of the room. In smaller bathrooms where every inch counts, the compact footprint of vessel sinks proves invaluable, allowing for a more efficient and functional layout without sacrificing style.

Installation Made Easy: A Seamless Upgrade for Any Bathroom

While the thought of remodeling a bathroom may seem daunting, installing a vessel sink is surprisingly straightforward. Unlike major renovations that require extensive plumbing work, integrating a vessel sink into your existing bathroom can require minimal effort and disruption. If your vessel sink has a flat bottom, even better! With a few simple adjustments, such as installing a compatible faucet and making sure you have proper support for the sink, you can incorporate this stylish fixture into your space.

Cons of Having a Vessel Sink

They’re stunning to have, but like everything, there are also drawbacks to consider:

Splash Factor

Unlike traditional undermount or drop-in sinks, these elevated varieties mean more exposure to water splatter during use. This can lead to water pooling around the base of the sink, potentially causing damage to the surrounding cabinetry or countertops if not quickly wiped dry. A simple task like hand-washing might mean you’ll need to keep a hand towel nearby to dab the water spots.

Height Considerations: Accessibility and Comfort Concerns

While the raised height of vessel sinks can be aesthetically pleasing, it may pose challenges for users with mobility issues or those of shorter stature. The increased distance from the countertop can also make it uncomfortable or even difficult for some individuals to reach the sink comfortably. If you have small children, they might struggle to reach the sink as well, requiring adding a stepping stool to your bathroom for their convenience.