Facts on Choosing and Installing A Kitchen Prep Sink When Remodeling

/
Choosing and Installing A Kitchen Prep Sink

Many homeowners choose to include a second sink in the island. If you do, consider keeping it on one side of the island to give yourself a large expanse of useful space. If you're lucky enough to live in an older home with a butler's pantry or are planning on including one in your remodel, this is a great space to add a prep sink. Wherever you finally end up placing your prep sink, make sure that dirty dishes can travel directly from the dining area to the cleanup area without crossing the path of the prep area. It will improve the flow of your kitchen.

Design the Workspace Around The Sink

Once you've decided on the placement of your prep sink, you'll need to consider nearby storage in your design. Think about how you'll use the prep space and what can improve functionality. If you have the budget, you may want to include drawer-type refrigerators, especially if you've placed the prep sink in your island. It's often handy to have fruits and vegetables near the prep sink. Or, you may want to have shelves nearby where you can keep the blender or food processor.

View Our Kitchen Design & Remodeling Portfolio

Additional storage for cutting boards or a pull-out trash drawer can improve functionality. You may also want to add drawers for knives and serving utensils nearby. If you love to entertain a beverage refrigerator, large ice maker, or dishwasher drawers can also be handy. 

Finally, don't neglect your lighting! To make your prep sink and workspace truly functional, make sure you include task lighting to keep your work area well lit and safe. 

Tips For Picking The Perfect Prep Sink

While the material choice is important for the aesthetics of your space, here are some practical tips for choosing the right prep sink for your project. 

  • While you have choices, a single, deep-bowled sink is usually the best choice for your second sink.

  • The prep sink needs to be at least 16-inches wide if it's going to include a garbage disposal.

  • Your prep sink should be deep enough to handle the biggest pots, as well as back up rinsing, soaking, and washing tasks.

  • Your prep sink should be either flush with the countertop, or under mounted for easy cleanup.

  • If you have space, setting the sink at one end of the island provides you with a large, continuous prep area.

Adding a second sink to your kitchen, remodel is a great way to improve the functionality of your kitchen. If you love to cook or entertain frequently, you'll absolutely love the convenience. If you choose a material like hammered copper or stone, you'll create a beautiful visual focal point.

If you're planning a kitchen remodeling project and you live in the greater Madison, Wisconsin area, why not give the design experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel a call at (608) 846-5963. We're here and always happy to answer your home improvement and remodeling questions. Let us help you create your dream kitchen!