Sounds like you had a porcelain coated cast iron sink. I had a white one made by Kohler in my old kitchen, and like you, was constantly scrubbing it with BKF to remove black marks from pots and pans. I hated it. My new farmhouse apron sink is fireclay and so much easier to keep looking white and clean. I still use BKF to clean it, but much less frequently, and no more ugly black scuff marks.

erikanh, what brand is yours? How long have you had it? Where did you buy it?

It's made by Herbeau and it's been installed for about 4 months. I purchased it online at Home & Stone. I'd recommend getting a sink grid with whatever sink you choose. I purchased an inexpensive one from eBay.

Thanks for sharing the pictures. I love your cabinets--could you give me more info about those?

Thank you! They're made by Crown Point. Perimeter cabinets are painted Paper White and my island is stained Russet.