Selecting the right basin is as crucial as choosing the perfect tiles or the ideal shower for your bathroom. It influences not only the aesthetics but also the functionality of your space. In the world of bathroom design, under counter basins and table top basins are two prevalent choices, each with its distinctive appeal and advantages. This guide will delve into the differences between these styles, helping you determine which basin type—offered by a global leader like Jaquar—best suits your bathroom's needs and style.
Feature | Under Counter Basin | Table Top Basin |
Space Utilization | Maximises usable counter space by fitting beneath the surface. | Requires more counter space but can serve as a design focal point. |
Design Options | Offers a sleek, integrated look that complements minimalist aesthetics. | Provides diverse styles and shapes, enhancing the room's decor. |
Installation | Typically more complex, requiring professional installation. | Generally simpler and can often be installed DIY. |
Integration | Seamlessly blends with the countertop for a uniform appearance. | Sits on top of the counter, adding depth and dimension. |
Accessibility | Lower profile can be easier to access in various setups. | Elevated height may require more reach but is versatile in placement. |
Cleaning and Maintenance | Easier to clean around the edges as it's flush with the counter. | May have nooks around the base that require detailed cleaning. |
Understanding the Basics: Under Counter vs. Table Top Basins
Under Counter Wash Basins
These basins are mounted beneath the countertop, creating a clean and seamless look. The under counter wash basin is all about minimalism and sleekness. They are often chosen for their understated elegance and the way they enhance the counter space without visible basin edges.
- Integration and Aesthetics: Integrates smoothly with the bathroom countertop, providing a tidy and continuous surface that’s easy to clean.- Space and Accessibility: Ideal for family bathrooms or master ensuites where space is ample, and a streamlined look is desired.
Table Top Basins
On the flip side, table top basin or counter top wash basin sit proudly atop your counter, becoming a focal point in the bathroom. They vary significantly in shape and style, from bowls that perch delicately on counters to substantial, sculptural pieces that command attention.
- Design Versatility: Offers diverse design options and finishes, making a statement with shapes and materials that can range from refined ceramics to rugged natural stone.- Functional Elegance: Typically easier to install than under-counter options, these basins allow for more personalization in terms of height and positioning on the wash basin counter design.
Key Features to Consider
Both basin types come with distinct characteristics. Here’s what to consider when choosing between an under counter wash basin and a table top wash basin:
- Style and Impact: If your bathroom is a retreat where design leads, a table top basin often serves as an art piece as much as a functional fixture. Conversely, an under counter basin offers a more integrated look that complements a streamlined, modern aesthetic.- Maintenance and Cleanliness: Under counter basins typically require less maintenance as there are no crevices between the basin and the countertop, making them easier to clean. However, table top basins are also simple to maintain, provided they are well designed with minimal overhang.
- Installation and Compatibility: Installation of a table top basin is generally straightforward, suitable for various counter materials. Under counter basins might require more precise countertop cutting and waterproofing but offer unparalleled integration with the counter.
- Space Utilization: An under counter wash basin can make a small bathroom appear larger due to its concealed edges, whereas a table top wash basin utilises more vertical space, which can be useful in bathrooms with ample counter space.
FAQs:
Q. Which is better for a modern bathroom: under-counter or table top basin?
A. For a modern look, under counter wash basins are often preferred for their clean lines and clutter-free counters. However, modern design can also embrace table top basins, especially when designed with sleek materials and contemporary shapes.
Q. Which basin type is easier to clean, under-counter basin or table top?
A. Under counter wash basins are generally easier to maintain as they have no gaps between the basin and countertop, preventing dirt buildup.
Q. Can a table top basin be installed in a small bathroom?
A. Yes, a table top basin can be installed in small bathrooms. Choosing a basin with a smaller diameter or a rectangular design can optimize space usage without sacrificing style.
Q. Which type of basin offers better water drainage, under-counter or table top?
A. Both basin types can offer excellent drainage, but the effectiveness often depends on the specific model and installation quality. Jaquar basins are engineered for optimal functionality, ensuring good drainage in both styles.
Q. Which basin type style is more popular in premium bathroom designs?
A. In premium designs, both styles have their place. Table top basins are often chosen for their visual impact and versatility, while under counter basins are selected for their sleek, unobtrusive appearance.
