What Makes a “Farmhouse” Sink?

You’ve heard of farmhouse sinks and have most likely seen them on our site or in a friend’s home. But what actually makes a sink considered “farmhouse” style?

The TLDR definition of a farmhouse sink is “a deep sink that has an exposed front-facing side.” Thesaurus may also refer to it as an “apron front” sink – which, in our opinion, is the best description as it literally acts like an apron as you wash.

But you came here for more than just a basic description. Keep reading – we answer the most common questions we get about farmhouse sinks.

Where did this style come from?

Though common in modern kitchens throughout the world today, this sink style originated in European kitchens in the late 17^th century. At that time, there was no running water. So, a deep sink with plenty of room to hold a lot of water was a revolutionary solution.

Is it still in style?

Yes! What was once a humble, practical tool is now a symbol of indulgent luxury, especially when it’s made with a quality material. When you picture a farmhouse sink, you most likely see a crisp white basin. Our distinctly durable fireclay from our INSPIRE collection brings the most classic farmhouse look.

But, it doesn’t stop there. Our VIBE collection of colorful farmhouse sinks transforms the fireclay you trust in an unforgettable shade. Matte gray blends beautifully for a modern, monochromatic look while candy apple red makes a statement you can’t help but notice (and adore).

Fireclay isn’t the only material fit for farmhouse sinks. Hand-hammered stainless steel styles from our FORTIFY collection and gorgeous Copper farmhouse kitchen sinks adds a high-end finish to the classically homestyle shape.

Will a farmhouse sink work in my kitchen?

Short answer – maybe. It really all depends on the size of your kitchen and the people who will use it.

The trick is finding a sink that fits the size of your kitchen. There are many styles available to suit kitchens – and people – large and small, from the small-but-mighty Wilcox II to the extra-wide Harper, so be intentional before installing. Keep in mind, even if you have a smaller kitchen, you can bring in the benefits of a farmhouse sink in your laundry room. Its deep, wide bowl is perfect for handwashing your most delicate pieces and even your pup!

Fair warning: the very tall and very short might find using a farmhouse sink a bit uncomfortable. Given the depth, taller individuals will have to bend over to reach the bottom of the sink while shorter individuals may struggle to get to every corner with ease.

What do I need to know about installing a farmhouse sink?

Some farmhouse sinks can be installed simply, like our QuickFit fireclay sinks from the ELEVATE collection, which are designed to fit seamlessly into existing cabinets and countertops. But, head’s up: you may need to call in the professionals to help install an undermount farmhouse sink. This type of sink will need additional support to hold it in place and may require adjustments to your current countertop and cabinets.

What’s the best part about a farmhouse sink?

 

• The look: Farmhouse sinks bring a rustic charm that’s visually comforting. When made with quality materials, they stand out unlike any other.

 

• The size: They may look good, but there’s more to them than just that. Their deep depth and extra-wide bowl make washing your biggest pots and pans easier.

 

• The long-lasting beauty and strength: When a farmhouse sink is made with quality materials like hand-hammered copper or durable fireclay, it will stay looking beautiful after every day’s use.

…to name a few.

Now that you’re more familiar with farmhouse sink style, we’d love to know: what do you think is the best part of a farmhouse sink? Share your thoughts with us on Instagram @Sinkology.

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

 

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source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/what-makes-a-farmhouse-sink/

Blueberry Lemon + Rosemary Crumble Pie

Sinkology is proud to present Emily Schuermann, our food-loving guest blogger who runs Food for a Year. Emily is here to share some recipes she has created exclusively for the Sinkology blog that reflect her view of a copper sink: simple, timeless, affordable, and beautifully rustic. 

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I’m always looking for a way to combine the two worlds of seasonal freshness and simplicity. It’s living and cooking within that sweet spot that keeps me happily in the kitchen. This blueberry pie recipe is a perfect balance of those 2 criteria – thanks to these gorgeous, fresh blueberries and a couple of other handy ingredients.

 

The real star of this recipe is the fresh blueberries (for sure) but the added flavors of rosemary and lemon turn this simple pie from traditional to exceptional. The fresh herby citrus adds a wonderful brightness to this comforting summer berry pie.

three steps to blueberry pie heaven

1.

This pie is tasty and equally simple thanks to a few simple steps and handy pantry staples. Start with “BLIND BAKING” a store bought refrigerated pie crust that’s been trimmed and placed into (2) 5-6″ round bakers*.

2.

While the crusts are blind-baking, prepare the blueberry pie filling.

3.

The crumble is secretly my favorite part of this recipe! A simple 2:2:1 ratio of flour to sugar to butter with the added whisper of rosemary and lemon to really draw out those flavors in the blueberry pie filling. The key to a good crumble is not over-working the mixture. Grate cold butter into the flour and sugar and then quickly work into a combination of sand + pea-sized bits. Simple as pie!

Simple Blueberry Pie Homemade

Once the components of this pie are prepared, it’s time to assemble and bake.

Pie is Served

Juicy and flavor-packed, this blueberry pie is a home run. I love the bright additions of rosemary and lemon and a perfect and unexpected addition to the juicy pie filling and crisp, buttery crumble topping.

Blueberry Lemon + Rosemary Crumble Pie

1 sheet of refrigerated or frozen pre-made pie crust, thawed according to package directions

filling

• 3 c fresh blueberries
• 3/4 c sugar (less depending on desired sweetness)
• pinch of salt
• 1/8-1/4 t finely minced fresh rosemary
• zest + juice of 2 lemons (divided)

crumble topping

• 3/4 c AP flour
• 6 T cold butter*
• 3/4 c sugar
• pinch of salt
• 1/8 t finely minced fresh rosemary
• 2 t lemon zest + 1 T lemon juice (from the 2 lemons listed above)

Preheat oven to 475°.

FOR THE CRUST :: Roll out pre-made pie crust dough, as directed by package instructions. Place 2 5-6″ x 2″ baking dishes* on the rolled out dough, and cut a circle in the pie dough 1″ wider than the dish. (as pictured above)

Press the dough into the 2 bakers (crimping the edges), line with parchment paper and fill with pie weights. Blind bake the pie crust for 15 minutes or according to package instructions. (you may need to cover the crust edges with foil if it begins getting too dark)

FOR THE FILLING ::

While the pie crusts are blind baking, prepare the blueberry pie filling by combining all of the pie filling ingredients in a medium bowl.

FOR THE CRUMBLE ::

Place sugar, flour, salt, rosemary and lemon zest  into another medium bowl. Using a cheese grater, grate cold butter into the bowl. Using your hands, mix to combine (there should be a balance between a sandy texture and pea-sized crumble bits) adding lemon juice if the crumble is too dry.

Once blind baking is complete, reduce the oven temperature to 375° and remove pie crusts from the oven.

Fill each crust halfway with pie filling then sprinkle 2 T of crumble topping over the filling and then add the remaining filling.

Top with crumble topping (may have extra topping).

FOR THE FINAL BAKE ::

Bake pies 30 minutes or until filling is bubbly and crumble topping is lightly golden in color.

*can use 1 9″ pie pan in place of 2 5-6″ bakers.

 

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

 

The post Blueberry Lemon + Rosemary Crumble Pie appeared first on Sinkology.

source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/blueberry-lemon-rosemary-crumble-pie/

Warm Up Your Guest Bathroom With Color

Many of us here at Sinkology are starting to warm up to the idea of hosting guests again. There’s something about hosting that makes us feel all warm and cozy inside. The fresh life in your space, the opportunity to express your “acts of service” love language – it’s a wonderful change of pace from the mundane. If you agree with us, keep reading. Today’s post will help you create a bathroom ambiance that is guest-approved and certainly appreciated. 

When you do finally welcome guests back into your home, it’s important to create a designated space that is as warm as your welcome. Sure, there are plenty of ways to add actual physical warmth to a bathroom with lush fabrics, high-end heated floors, and steam showers. But seeing warmth will do just as much – if not more – for your guests. It’s science, really. According to color theory, seeing warm colors such as red, yellow, and orange will actually warm our senses. Shades such as these remind us of the warmest things, like a sunny summer day or relaxing evening by the fire. Warmer colors literally give a room a more intimate feel, rather than an impersonal vibe that cool tones can often create. Instead, they bring in a certain sort of coziness, a comforting ambiance. The trick is to add just enough warmth, without overwhelming the senses.

If you’re hesitant, test the temperature with just a few accessories.

From luscious, vibrantly colored towels to delicate flowers decorating the countertops, sometimes the tiniest touch can be enough. Soft yellow towels suit all-white bathrooms well while dramatic red pairs perfectly with dark countertops, gray walls, and platinum fixtures. Yellow orchids make a beautiful year-round addition to any bathroom. Brown thumb? Silk flowers are a fantastic – and realistic-looking – alternative.

Take a bigger step with colorful tile-work.

From patterned Moroccan tile floor to deep burgundy shower tiles, warm-toned tile-work adds a purposeful glow to the typical guest bathroom. Your guests will be transported to a tropical paradise, even in the dead of winter. If a full floor replacement or shower update isn’t in the budget, consider replacing your vanity countertop instead.

Warm up with wood.

If you prefer more neutral tones in your home design style, you can still bring in warmth to your guest bathroom through the wood you choose. Look for woods that have a red undertone like cherry, mahogany, and hickory, which will create a cozy feel without crazy color you’ll tire of relatively quickly…or immediately.

Turn up the heat with wall color.

If you’re ready to make a bold statement that will bring the most heat, it’s time to splash your walls with color. From all-yellow walls to one standout accent wall, this upgrade will wrap your guests with unparalleled warmth.

No matter where you add warmth, always wait to make any purchases until you’ve defined your color palette for the room. As you think through how you’ll welcome your guests, keep your personal taste in mind first and foremost. Yellow may be energizing for some homeowners, but if it drives you crazy, it isn’t the right update for you. Red may be romantic for others, but it could be too intense for you. Remember, you are the one that lives there full-time, even if it is a spare bathroom that isn’t regularly used.

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

 

The post Warm Up Your Guest Bathroom With Color appeared first on Sinkology.

source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/warm-up-your-guest-bathroom-with-color/