Kitchen sinks & faucets, from modern to farmhouse & mid-century to today.
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The Ensuite Winnipeg offers unrivaled access to the leading kitchen sink manufacturers. Winnipeg's only Blanco Premier Showroom.
We carry only quality sinks, made from stainless steel, fireclay, cast iron, modern composites., even copper and brass. |
KITCHEN SINKS
Enjoy exploring, click the brand to explore their website.
FRANKEBorn in Switzerland over 110 years ago, Franke continues the tradition of precise engineering and craftsmanship today.
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ZOMODOAustralian designed & owned,
Zomodo's selection of unique sinks, incl. bronze & gold models are gaining popularity worldwide. |
BLANCOHeadquartered in Germany,
Blanco's commitment to the best quality is critical in meeting the highest standards. |
SHAWS OF DARWENBeautiful handcrafted fireclay
sinks, since 1897, Shaws of Darwen out of Lancashire, England stamp each sink with the makers initials. |
ELKAYAmerica's #1 kitchen sink company
The "Perfect Drain" by Elkay, an innovative solution, to keeping your sink clean. |
HOME REFINEMENTSBased in Quebec city,
Home Refinements by Julien bring their experience from commercial kitchens to the home. |
PROCHEFWith Prochef you choose a durable sink, that matches your decor, suits your budget and supports a Canadian business.
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KINDRED SINKWARE The sink with the "Crown". As one of Canada's most popular sink manufacturers, Kindred sinks are a staple in Canadian kitchens.
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KOHLER A rich history, from classic cast-iron, stainless steel,
and modern quartz composites, Kohler offers the complete suite. |
THOMPSON TRADERSAuthentic artisanal hammered kitchen sinks in copper, nickel, steel, and brass. Heirloom centerpieces for your home.
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ROHLRohl's pursuit of refined sensibility and unique provenance elevates a kitchen's authentic luxury.
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Kallista The shimmering distressed finish and hammered countenance of the Bacifiore sink by Mick De Giulio is one piece that's built to impress.
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KITCHEN SINK BUYER'S GUIDE
At it's heart, a kitchen sink is a tool and a workhorse of every home. There is rarely a day when a kitchen sink does not get used, which is why it's a great idea when shopping for a new sink to explore the options.
Materials:
Kitchen sinks are available in a wide variety of materials today, from stainless steel, stone composites such as Blanco's Silgranit or Kohler's Neoroc, as well as traditional materials like cast iron and fireclay.
The decision surrounding what material to select is usually a balance of three factors, aesthetics and practicality and each choice have pros and cons.
Stainless Steel:
Let's explore stainless steel to begin. A stainless steel kitchen sink is the most popular choice as it offers an all around good performing option for many spaces. They are durable, long lasting, and are available at price points to suit any budget, as well as offer the largest variety of sizes and configurations than any other material.
Stainless steel is available in different thicknesses, known as gauges. The gauge is indicated by a number, and contrary to in a lot areas, the lower the number or gauge the thicker the steel and the higher the number / gauge, the thinner the steel. Common gauges are 16, 18, and 20. Over time the most typical gauge of sink has changed, in the past a 20 gauge sinks were very popular, but today 18 and 16 are taking center stage.
A thicker steel will provide added strength to a sink, adding further dent resistance.
The type of steel is also a factor. You will find moth sinks are made of Grade 304 steel, yet some are made of grade 316. The primary difference is that 316 is even more resistance to corrosion in extreme environments.
316 is ideally suited for marine environments, medical equipment, or kitchen's where the highest standards are desired.
Stainless steels sinks are available in a myriad of sizes from bar to 7' workstation sinks and depths from 6" to 12". It is also possible to order a custom sink quite easily to meet the most exacting requirements. We will get into sink or workstation configurations later on.
The negative attribute of a steel sink which many kitchen sink owner have experienced, is the lack of scratch resistance. It usually isn't too long before a new pristine sink basin receives its first damaging gouge from a sharp knife, cast iron pan, or the like. Overtime the scratches and scuffs do blend together.
What usually isn't explored is refinishing a sink - thick 16 gauge sinks can be refinished, some manufacturer's offer instructions, such as The Galley, whose angel finish can be restored with a sander.
Kitchen sinks are available in a wide variety of materials today, from stainless steel, stone composites such as Blanco's Silgranit or Kohler's Neoroc, as well as traditional materials like cast iron and fireclay.
The decision surrounding what material to select is usually a balance of three factors, aesthetics and practicality and each choice have pros and cons.
Stainless Steel:
Let's explore stainless steel to begin. A stainless steel kitchen sink is the most popular choice as it offers an all around good performing option for many spaces. They are durable, long lasting, and are available at price points to suit any budget, as well as offer the largest variety of sizes and configurations than any other material.
Stainless steel is available in different thicknesses, known as gauges. The gauge is indicated by a number, and contrary to in a lot areas, the lower the number or gauge the thicker the steel and the higher the number / gauge, the thinner the steel. Common gauges are 16, 18, and 20. Over time the most typical gauge of sink has changed, in the past a 20 gauge sinks were very popular, but today 18 and 16 are taking center stage.
A thicker steel will provide added strength to a sink, adding further dent resistance.
The type of steel is also a factor. You will find moth sinks are made of Grade 304 steel, yet some are made of grade 316. The primary difference is that 316 is even more resistance to corrosion in extreme environments.
316 is ideally suited for marine environments, medical equipment, or kitchen's where the highest standards are desired.
Stainless steels sinks are available in a myriad of sizes from bar to 7' workstation sinks and depths from 6" to 12". It is also possible to order a custom sink quite easily to meet the most exacting requirements. We will get into sink or workstation configurations later on.
The negative attribute of a steel sink which many kitchen sink owner have experienced, is the lack of scratch resistance. It usually isn't too long before a new pristine sink basin receives its first damaging gouge from a sharp knife, cast iron pan, or the like. Overtime the scratches and scuffs do blend together.
What usually isn't explored is refinishing a sink - thick 16 gauge sinks can be refinished, some manufacturer's offer instructions, such as The Galley, whose angel finish can be restored with a sander.
Composite "granite" sinks:
Over the past few decades composite stone sinks have only gained more and more fans. What was once seen as a novelty to kitchen sink shoppers is now a destination material, with people specifically seeking out a composite sink.
The composite sink industry is basically divided into two materials, a mix of granite & resin, or quartz & resin. The stone or quartz element providing the hardness and durability and the resin adding colour as well as the workability to shape the sink into it's final form.
You will find composite sinks under many different trademarked names like Blanco's Silgranit, Kohler's Neoroc, or offerings from Franke, Elkay, our "house brand" Luxart and others. Our kitchen sink brand partners all offer a quality product with good customer service, just in case. Each offer their own colours from matte black to greys or white sinks, each in unique bowl configurations.
One of the most desirable features of a "granite" sink is its durability. They are scratch, heat, and stain resistant, which is why they have become the material of choice in many kitchens, especially those looking to say goodbye to an old scratched stainless steel sink. They aren't impervious to damage, but are known to take a beating and look newer longer.
They are also hygienic, Franke's "Sanitized Technology" for example is designed to reduce odors microbes and bacteria by 99%. That's impressive.
The downsides to a composite sink are on the one hand, the cost as the entry level price point is higher than a basic steel sink, but on the other certainly not at an exclusive price point. They are also only available in limited configurations when compared to a steel sink.
Also, when selecting a colour it is important to know your countertop and cabinet finishes, to help make the right selection.
Over the past few decades composite stone sinks have only gained more and more fans. What was once seen as a novelty to kitchen sink shoppers is now a destination material, with people specifically seeking out a composite sink.
The composite sink industry is basically divided into two materials, a mix of granite & resin, or quartz & resin. The stone or quartz element providing the hardness and durability and the resin adding colour as well as the workability to shape the sink into it's final form.
You will find composite sinks under many different trademarked names like Blanco's Silgranit, Kohler's Neoroc, or offerings from Franke, Elkay, our "house brand" Luxart and others. Our kitchen sink brand partners all offer a quality product with good customer service, just in case. Each offer their own colours from matte black to greys or white sinks, each in unique bowl configurations.
One of the most desirable features of a "granite" sink is its durability. They are scratch, heat, and stain resistant, which is why they have become the material of choice in many kitchens, especially those looking to say goodbye to an old scratched stainless steel sink. They aren't impervious to damage, but are known to take a beating and look newer longer.
They are also hygienic, Franke's "Sanitized Technology" for example is designed to reduce odors microbes and bacteria by 99%. That's impressive.
The downsides to a composite sink are on the one hand, the cost as the entry level price point is higher than a basic steel sink, but on the other certainly not at an exclusive price point. They are also only available in limited configurations when compared to a steel sink.
Also, when selecting a colour it is important to know your countertop and cabinet finishes, to help make the right selection.
Cast Iron Kitchen Sinks:
Cast Iron is a traditional material that conjures up images of life on a farm, or days gone by. Kohler one of the pioneers in cast iron in North America proudly still manufactures them "the old fashioned way" in the same foundry that they have used for well over a hundred years.
Build from Iron with a glass enamel surface it is hard to replicate the beauty of a cast iron sink in any other material. They are heavy, durable, and... gorgeous. Kohler offers cast iron sinks in a wide range of colours and configurations. They even warrant that the sink will not chip crack or burn, which is impressive.
These lovely sinks do come at a cost, so be prepared to pay a premium over other materials and despite there strength, it is possible to scratch one. We always recommend that a bottom grid be ordered with the sink to keep it looking great.
Cast Iron is a traditional material that conjures up images of life on a farm, or days gone by. Kohler one of the pioneers in cast iron in North America proudly still manufactures them "the old fashioned way" in the same foundry that they have used for well over a hundred years.
Build from Iron with a glass enamel surface it is hard to replicate the beauty of a cast iron sink in any other material. They are heavy, durable, and... gorgeous. Kohler offers cast iron sinks in a wide range of colours and configurations. They even warrant that the sink will not chip crack or burn, which is impressive.
These lovely sinks do come at a cost, so be prepared to pay a premium over other materials and despite there strength, it is possible to scratch one. We always recommend that a bottom grid be ordered with the sink to keep it looking great.
Fireclay Kitchen Sinks:
You may not have heard about fireclay before, which is sometimes surprising as it has its origins in the 17th century Britain. At its core it is essentially ceramic, but fired at hotter temperatures for longer periods, creating a durable result.
Fireclay sinks add an heirloom element to any kitchen blessed to have one. They are offered in limited colours and usually only in a few configurations and sizes, harkening back to the times when there weren't endless options.
You will find fireclay offerings from Franke through a partnership with Villeroy and Boch, as well as Blanco and Julien. Shaws of Darwen deserve a special mention as they have continued their history of artisanal fireclay craftsmanship to this day, known as one of the world's finest sinks, each is created by one craftsman who stamps each sink.
A fireclay kitchen sink is durable & heat resistant, but not impervious to scratching. A bottom grid will do the trick and help keep your sink in good shape for a long time.
The price point of a quality fireclay sink is higher than other materials, and be wary of "online" brands offering low prices, there is always a reason and when it comes to the workhorse of a kitchen, the last thing you would want is for it to fail, and be left wondering what to do next.
You may not have heard about fireclay before, which is sometimes surprising as it has its origins in the 17th century Britain. At its core it is essentially ceramic, but fired at hotter temperatures for longer periods, creating a durable result.
Fireclay sinks add an heirloom element to any kitchen blessed to have one. They are offered in limited colours and usually only in a few configurations and sizes, harkening back to the times when there weren't endless options.
You will find fireclay offerings from Franke through a partnership with Villeroy and Boch, as well as Blanco and Julien. Shaws of Darwen deserve a special mention as they have continued their history of artisanal fireclay craftsmanship to this day, known as one of the world's finest sinks, each is created by one craftsman who stamps each sink.
A fireclay kitchen sink is durable & heat resistant, but not impervious to scratching. A bottom grid will do the trick and help keep your sink in good shape for a long time.
The price point of a quality fireclay sink is higher than other materials, and be wary of "online" brands offering low prices, there is always a reason and when it comes to the workhorse of a kitchen, the last thing you would want is for it to fail, and be left wondering what to do next.
Kitchen Sink Configurations:
To divide or not to divide, how many bowls you need in your kitchen sink is a personal question. It comes back to how you work in your kitchen, let's explore the most popular options, the double bowl, sink and a half, and single.
The double bowl established itself as the "standard" in kitchen sinks many many years ago. Offering classic utility to wash, drain, & rinse... equally in either bowl. The traditional bowl size is 14x16", in a depth of 7" to 9".
A hold over from the days before dishwashers, double bowl sinks are being looked over for alternative layouts more and more
The "Sink" and a Half, offering the positives of a double bowl sink, with a twist. Consisting of one large bowl and a second smaller bowl. Having the large bowl will allow you to fit bigger items into the bowl than you could in classic double. Those baking sheets, pans with long handles will be easier to wash and rinse. The big bowls little neighbor gives you a spot to drain and rinse while the large bowl is occupied.
The single bowl has been gaining more and more momentum. As dishwashers take on most of the washing duties, an oversized single bowl is a practical choice. Offering maximum freedom to wash the largest kitchen tools, With an offset or end drain cabinet space below can be freed up as the plumbing can be tucked conveniently at one end of the cabinet.
To divide or not to divide, how many bowls you need in your kitchen sink is a personal question. It comes back to how you work in your kitchen, let's explore the most popular options, the double bowl, sink and a half, and single.
The double bowl established itself as the "standard" in kitchen sinks many many years ago. Offering classic utility to wash, drain, & rinse... equally in either bowl. The traditional bowl size is 14x16", in a depth of 7" to 9".
A hold over from the days before dishwashers, double bowl sinks are being looked over for alternative layouts more and more
The "Sink" and a Half, offering the positives of a double bowl sink, with a twist. Consisting of one large bowl and a second smaller bowl. Having the large bowl will allow you to fit bigger items into the bowl than you could in classic double. Those baking sheets, pans with long handles will be easier to wash and rinse. The big bowls little neighbor gives you a spot to drain and rinse while the large bowl is occupied.
The single bowl has been gaining more and more momentum. As dishwashers take on most of the washing duties, an oversized single bowl is a practical choice. Offering maximum freedom to wash the largest kitchen tools, With an offset or end drain cabinet space below can be freed up as the plumbing can be tucked conveniently at one end of the cabinet.
Workstations:
A workstation consists of a basin and a collection of custom fitted accessories, that transform the "S.I.N.K" into the a practical space allowing you to complete more tasks over the workstation. With tools, like cutting boards, colanders, bowls, serving trays, and more, you can prep, cook, rinse, and serve at the workstation. They will truly transform how you work in the kitchen.
Being able to accomplish more over the station saves steps and when several people are together in the kitchen, it helps everyone stay out of each others way.
Usually sized in the 4' & 5' range, there are 6' and 7' workstations as well. Since the workstation takes over many of the tasks that are usually accomplished on the countertop - it resolves the argument that a kitchen is too small for a workstation. It has been said "The smaller the kitchen, the bigger the workstation"!
No one has ever complained that there sink is too big, rather my sink is too small, wink!
To learn more, check out The Galley.
A workstation consists of a basin and a collection of custom fitted accessories, that transform the "S.I.N.K" into the a practical space allowing you to complete more tasks over the workstation. With tools, like cutting boards, colanders, bowls, serving trays, and more, you can prep, cook, rinse, and serve at the workstation. They will truly transform how you work in the kitchen.
Being able to accomplish more over the station saves steps and when several people are together in the kitchen, it helps everyone stay out of each others way.
Usually sized in the 4' & 5' range, there are 6' and 7' workstations as well. Since the workstation takes over many of the tasks that are usually accomplished on the countertop - it resolves the argument that a kitchen is too small for a workstation. It has been said "The smaller the kitchen, the bigger the workstation"!
No one has ever complained that there sink is too big, rather my sink is too small, wink!
To learn more, check out The Galley.