A Perfect Pairing
Choose The Best Vessel Sink Faucet
Dion Wilson, Manager, Waterhouse Kitchen & Bath Studio
California Faucets Montecito faucet paired with the Sorrento glass sink from the Bianco Series
Bathrooms are no longer predictably outfitted with conventional white porcelain sinks and chrome widespread faucets. There are so many more options today, and vessel sinks are one of the most stylish and elegant ways to dress up the bathroom. They combine modern functionality with old world charm. Their design is actually inspired by wash basins used in centuries past, before the invention of modern indoor plumbing. When a simple bowl and pitcher were placed on a table for washing up.
Today’s vessel sinks modernize that same basic design concept. They are now practical and diverse and are available in a wide variety of designs, shapes, colors, and materials. Because their diameter and height will vary, vessel sink faucet selection is a very important part of the design process. Since vessel sinks generally sit above the counter, they require faucets that are slightly different than standard faucets. Faucets can be either deck mounted or wall mounted. Each sink and faucet installation will share common factors and will have unique aspects to take into consideration. Be sure to work closely with your designer and/or showroom personnel, who have expertise in faucet selection. Ultimately, satisfaction with one’s sink depends to a large degree upon proper faucet selection, so this is a task not taken lightly.
The faucet height, the distance the spout reaches over the basin and the angle of the water flow. Notice the placement of Graff Tranquility’s arched spout into the Morro, from the NativeStone® Collection.
Avoid Splashing!
When choosing a faucet, you will need to account for the height above the sink and the length of the faucet’s spout. In considering the height of the faucet, make sure there is enough room between the faucet and the sink to wash one’s hands. The faucet should be a few inches above the rim of the sink, but not much higher – as that can cause excessive splashing. The distance the spout reaches into the bowl and where the water falls and hits should also be considered. The stream of water should not hit so high on the wall of the vessel that it causes splashing. The necessary length of the spout, or reach, will vary depending upon the angle of the water flow and the shape of the basin, but it is important that the water hits the sink bottom, particularly if it is a shallow sink.
California Faucets Bel Canto faucet paired with the Amalfi glass sink from the Shoreline Series
Deck-Mount Faucets
Deck-mounted faucets are typically taller than a standard faucet. The most popular style of this type is a single hole, single handle faucet. However, you can also find tall widespread faucets as well as faucets with remote handles. These faucets have a curved neck design so that the faucet can both accommodate the tall bowl and allow the user to wash her hands. Deck-mounts are generally an easy install as they require nothing more than standard under-the-counter plumbing.
Altmans Nuva faucet with dual handles and arched spout helps the angle of water flow into the Maestro Oval.
Wall-Mount Vessel Sink Faucets
Wall-mounted vessel sink faucets are typically two handle widespread style or a spout with a remote single handle. The wall-mount faucet can be a fabulous option as it frees up counter space and can look quite stunning. However, installation is a bit more difficult as this requires a rough-in valve inside the wall, meaning the water supply lines are also inside the wall. If you are designing the bath in a new home – or if a space is completely gutted – this doesn’t matter as much as with a remodel. In wall-mounted faucet installation, positioning is everything. The faucet must reach far enough that the water stream hits the bottom of the basin. Otherwise, the water will hit the side of the bowl and create considerable splash back.
The California Faucets Avalon wall faucet with remote single handle extends well into the Maestro Mandala in Brushed Nickel (left), and Maestro Bajo (right).
Brizo faucet paired with the Verona glass sink from the Abyss Series
Design with the End in Mind
Lastly, when deciding which vessel sink faucet is right for your design, keep the future in mind. If your tastes and styles change with the trends you may want to consider using a deck mounted faucet. They are relatively simple to replace as compared to a wall mounted faucet. Whichever you choose, make sure it is the right one for your taste and lifestyle.
Manager of Waterhouse Kitchen & Bath Studio in Perrysburg, Ohio, Dion Wilson is a trained interior designer and has worked in the kitchen & bath industry for two decades. Dion oversaw the showroom’s recent remodel and extensive renovation, with an eye to creating a destination showroom unlike any in Northwest Ohio. Dion is a columnist for The Wholesaler as well as a leading social media expert in the decorative plumbing industry. He is extremely passionate about design – and he loves to recommend Native Trails to his customers.