Farmhouse (apron front) sink puzzle

10 years ago

I am getting new counters and would love to retrofit the cabinet that holds the sink to accommodate a farmhouse or apron front sink. The counter installer tells me it can't be done, but I don't see why not and he isn't good at explaining things. The farmhouse sink would be 33" wide, the same as the old sink. The depth is 9-1/6" and there is a space of 10" from the top of the counter to the bottom of the fake panels. I do understand that there would need to be support added underneath the sink, but other than that, can anyone see why there'd be a problem? Also, a salesman in a high end kitchen supply store tells me there's no such thing as an undermount farmhouse sink. If so, why are some farmhouse sinks labeled "undermount"? Finally, who would I hire to do this work? It seems like a combination of plumbing and carpentry.

Thanks a million for your insights, Houzz community!

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Comments (4)

PRO
Brickwood Builders, Inc.
10 years ago
Kohler makes a Whitehaven sink that has a short apron and is self rimming. You need a sink that is smaller than the cabinet. You will need a good carpenter or cabinet installer to make the adjustments for you. You don't indicate that you plan to paint your cabinetry. What will you do if there is a slip and the cabinet gets damaged? It is always a possibility when trying to retrofit. Might want to have a contingency plan for that. Our fabricator requires that an apron front sink be installed prior to template and installation of the countertop.
marciahalstead thanked Brickwood Builders, Inc.
emilyam819
10 years ago
Almost all farmhouse sinks are undermount. The Kohler Whitehaven short apron is the only one I know that can go in a regular sink base like you have. Just make sure it will cover the existing holes behind your fake panels.
marciahalstead thanked emilyam819
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marciahalstead
Original Author
10 years ago
The Kohler Whitehaven short apron looks like just the thing, and I wouldn't have found it without your help. Thanks so very much!
cynde1951
10 years ago
My carpenter just retrofitted my whitehaven 33 inch sink and had no problem. My cupboards are sporting new shaker doors and will be painted. They are 29 yrs old.