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Sink not under a window?

18 years ago

I'm planning a full kitchen remodel, basically making it bigger. Under my new plan, logistically I think the sink should be moved so it's in a more centralized location. That would put the sink underneath a cabinet.

Do any of you have a sink that is not underneath a window? Do you care?

I personally don't care. I'm not looking out the window when I washing dishes - I'm looking down at the dishes. But I'm thinking about resale value for the home. Off hand, I can't think of any home I have seen where the sink is not underneath a window ... when there is a window in the kitchen.

Comments (4)

  • 18 years ago

    Our cleanup sink isn't under a window, but it doesn't have a cabinet over it either. We have a "hood" that echoes the hood over our cooktop area, and it houses downlights. If you do have a cabinet, I'd advise you to put it higher than usual for headroom. I think that's part of the reason why sinks have been located at windows: it's a space that would not have a cabinet, plus it supplies light. Some European kitchens have a rack as the bottom of a cabinet over the sink, so dishes can dripdry there out of sight.

  • 18 years ago

    Hey,
    Our sink won't be under a window and our current one is also not under a window (a p.i.t.a. corner location from the p.o.s which will change). It is not a hard and fast rule about needing a window by a sink.
    We are putting chrome shelves above our entire sink area so as to not close in the space above the sink and to be able to put our daily drinking glasses and plates for easy access. We will also make sure to have a light fixture above for visual and lighting purposes. Our kitchen will have several skylights as well, so the fact that there will be no window should not be an issue for us. I think as long as you balance the need for light and ergonomics, you can do whatever works best in your space.
    HTH

  • 18 years ago

    I was in a glitzy showroom the other day and there were some beautiful sink and countertop displays against walls. They were so nice it got me thinking it would free up my design process so much if I went that route. These sink areas were gorgeous, mind you. The one that stands out in my mind had a hand carved marble basin with marble counter, pretty marble mosaic tiles on the wall, and, an important factor, good undercabinet lighting. The wall cabinets above the sink had glass doors, so had an open feel, and the lights were bright and cheery, highlighting the beauty of the materials.

    I think the important factors if you're going to site a sink somewhere other than under a window are 1) a very good overall design, so the sink is well integrated as part of the whole, and 2) good lighting above the sink.

    I have seen lots of pictures of the situation you describe that look very good.

  • 18 years ago

    Here is a link that has some photos and other comments. Basically, most if not all posters didn't have an issue with a window not under a sink.

    Here is a link that might be useful: Clean Up Sink Not Under Window