Copper sink – design ideas for modern or rustic kitchen interiors

A copper sink has a lot to offer to any kitchen design. Fascinating farmhouse basins can be used in the design of rustic, Mediterranean, country styled kitchens and you may be surprised how well they blend in modern and contemporary interiors. Although copper is a material known for thousands of years with the development of new technology and the appearance of new materials it was forgotten and seldom used. With the growing strength and popularity for environmentally friendly matter and interiors based on natural materials, the copper sink has returned to center stage and has become an element in many stylish, modern kitchens.

Copper sink in the kitchen – enchanting beauty of metal for a touch of personality

The aesthetic appeal and the elegant shine of polished metal add something very different and original to the interior of the kitchen. A copper sink is often a work of art, a decorative element that is a real eye catcher for the incomparable beauty and charm. Typically stainless steel is the first option when people look for a kitchen sink in a contemporary or minimalist style as such sinks look great in modern designs. However, manufacturers have captured the trend and the growing demand and many companies offer copper units with clean lines which work with modern styles and materials. Usually it is a stylish accent which stands out in a contemporary minimalist kitchen. The warm metal works best for rustic, farmhouse and Mediterranean interiors which feature natural wood, ceramic tiles, wrought iron, clay, stone, etc. Its subtle shine works with all these materials and harmoniously blends into a magnificent and attractive combination of colors and textures.

Why choose a copper sink?

What are the pros and cons of a copper sink? Does this metal have any special properties? What are the drawbacks and how to maintain your copper sink so that it serves you for many years? We shall look at the advantages, benefits and the factors that you have to keep in mind when choosing one for your kitchen.

Visual aesthetics – The appearance and decorative value of a copper sink are unmatched by any other sink material. Their style and the beauty make any kitchen look much more up-scale. The metallic basins are often manufactured from a single sheet of metal which gives them a sleek sophisticated look. Farmhouse styled units with beautiful patterns and carvings on the apron offer a tremendous amount of artistry and personality. The patina of copper is highly valued by many homeowners as it gives the sink an authentic vintage look. Copper sinks are available in a variety of styles, shapes and size to suit any taste and meet any personal requirements.

Antimicrobial properties – Bacteria does not last on copper which makes it the perfect choice for kitchen sinks. As per experts bacteria dies within a couple of hours after coming in contact with a copper sink. Antimicrobial properties are essential for food preparation and for the homeowners who wash dishes in the sink. Keep in mind that if you want to preserve the Antimicrobial properties of your copper sink, you should look for a sink which is not waxed or coated, nor varnished and painted.

Corrosion and rust resistance – copper basins do not corrode or rust with time. The rust resistance of the material makes it an ideal choice for any sink and with the right maintenance you will enjoy it for decades.

There a few drawbacks of a copper sink that you should keep in mind when choosing one for your kitchen. On the first place is the fact that the metal has a high reactivity and the sink will darken with time. If you are not a fan of the patina, then you should choose an alternative material. It can easily stain and can be damaged by acids – vinegar, lemon or orange juice.

Low quality units may warp or dent. Furthermore a hot pan or utensil and abrasive cleaners may also damage their surface.

They require daily maintenance. You must dry the surface after each use to prevent water spots. In order to preserve their shine and appearance they may require waxing but the latter removes the anti-bacterial qualities of the surface. Using alkaline- or vegetable-based dish detergent is strongly advisable when you want to clean the sink.

Price tag – copper sinks are often in the higher end in terms of price and are more expensive than traditional stainless steel, porcelain, or ceramic ones. However their visual appeal is enormous and it is the homeowner’s decision to choose a copper sink or an alternative.