1. Get as big a sink as you can for the area available. I went from a smallish sink to pretty big, and LOVE IT.
2. Single bowl vs double bowl, and the size of each bowl is really subjective.
3. "Ticor" sinks are a great value, and lots of people will rave about them here! 16g SS, nice variety of sizes/shapes, really sturdy sink grids included in purchase price, fast shipping, great phone service, and great price! You almost cannot go wrong! (I forgot the name of the website, but someone will chime in with a second recommendation for them.)

galaxy tool supply - absolutely fantastic deal!!

do a search on other SS sink threads to read others' opinions on sinks - very informative.

I love my single bowl & 16 gauge. It's been 7 months & so far no scratches or dents.

Laurie, I thought all stainless sinks developed a patina of scratches? How do you keep yours scratch-free?

Morton5, just a thought based on my contractor brother's observations - maybe it's not used much? He works in the industry and swears people who go big on kitchens don't ever really use them. Me? I'm in total argument - he often reaps the benefits of my kitchen. (He's currently helping with our bathroom addition and I try to pay him by cooking each visit he makes.) He thinks I'm the exception. I think not.

My sink has a patina. It is a true warrior of my kitchen and serves me well.

You basically have a choice of 18 or 16 guage stainless steel sinks. They are made of surgical grade stainless steel and the 16/10, or 18/10 refers to the proportion of chromium to nickel in the stainless steel alloy. They are extremely durable, scratch resistant and are now even "sound dampened" with sprayed sound proof coating and/or an additional thick rubber sound proof padding on the exterior for a "quieter" effect. After all, even the sound of pouring water can become un-nerving after hearing it against a hollowed out metal structure for the thousandth time that day. The following information may help you with your choice:

Can an undermount sink be used as a drop in sink?
No, undermount sinks are not designed to be used in a drop in installation.
What does zero radius mean?
Zero radius is a term that means that there are no rounded corners to the sink walls or deck.
What size are the drain openings?
Generally they have a standard drain opening of 3 1/2".
How should I clean my stainless steel sink?
You should use a mild soap and soft cloth to clean your sink, never a harsh chemical or abrasive. Also, drying your stainless steel sink will help to retain its shine and lustre.

Here is a link that might be useful: Bath and Kitchen Source

I'm another one that "uses" my kitchen. Yes,it is a BIG statement when people walk into my open concept house, but I need to like what I'm using, not just impress company. I purchased a Franke pro, BIG sink with a grid. LOVE IT!!! No patina and no scratches after 5 years of use! I have burned a little of the plastic covering off the sink grid....:0)

I love to cook and use my kitchen & sink every single day! I often have family over for large dinners and so far this sink is holding up to tons of use and still looks great : )
I am so glad I learned about Bar Keepers Friend from this forum (before the sink was installed). On my old sink, I used Ajax or Soft Scrub.