Countertop basins are becoming a popular choice in both modern and traditional bathrooms, thanks to their minimalist feel, simplistic nature and easy-ish installation. They can be styled to suit a wide range of different bathrooms, offering something slightly different to your average bathroom basin, as well as ample room to store your toiletries.
Ready to find out more about these versatile bathroom sinks?
What is a Countertop Basin?
A countertop basin is essentially a basin mounted directly onto a level surface - such as a vanity unit or wall hung basin shelf. They look almost like a large dish or bowl, offering a stylish alternative to regular basins. Countertop basins do not connect to the wall at the back and come in a number of shapes, sizes and designs. Whilst they generally look sleek and modern, those with a more traditional style bathroom can easily find something more timeless to fit.
Choosing a counter basin may seem daunting, but only since there are so many beautiful designs available at varying prices! There are some basic things to remember when you're looking around for one, however. Small countertop basins tend to suit smaller bathrooms, but, with lots of choice available, you'll be able to find options for all room sizes, including stylish countertop basin vanity units which have the added bonus of built-in storage.
Where Can I Install a Countertop Basin?
Installing a countertop basin can become complicated if you're not a confident DIY-er. If you're unsure then it's probably worth calling in a professional - they shouldn't charge too much for a straightforward replacement job.
A countertop basin is really versatile. They are typically fitted on top of a vanity unit or floating shelf in a bathroom. This in itself provides much-needed storage either in drawers or underneath your shelf. They can also be installed as a semi-recess style, breaking up the flow of your unit like the example below shows. This looks particularly impressive in traditional or industrial styled spaces.
But so long as you have ample support and accessible plumbing, these nifty sinks are a really flexible piece in your bathroom.
What Taps Can I Have?
The good news is that you don’t need specialist taps for your counter basin - which makes choosing your own preferred style and shape that little bit easier.
Some countertop sinks feature a tap hole which enables you to mount your choice of basin mono mixer. The vast majority however, are best paired with a wall mounted basin mixer or tall basin tap. Many standard basin taps come with an ‘extended’ version, so it’s worth double checking if you’ve got your eye on a particular shape.
Here's some of our favourite taps to pair with a countertop sink.
Core Wall Mounted Basin Tap - Brushed Brass
£199.99
Core Tall Mono Basin Mixer Tap - Brushed Bronze
£159.99
Harbour Clarity Knurled Tall Basin Mixer Tap
From £149.99
Countertop Basin Styles
Next we'll highlight the types of counter basin that you can choose from along with our top pick for each style.
Oval Countertop Basins
Clean and minimalist oval countertop basins make a statement in a subtle and refined way. They are the ultimate in modern luxury, but, when paired with period-inspired taps, can make a huge impact in traditional spaces too.
They work best within minimalist bathrooms and complement neutral tones. They are a fantastic addition if you're trying to achieve that spa-like bathroom feel thanks to their smooth and shapely appearance.
Our favourite of the oval shapes is this Butler & Rose Ceramic Oval Countertop Basin. This beautiful and stylish vessel sink is perfectly paired with one of our wall mounted traditional taps to create a timeless aesthetic.
The basin is crafted from a durable ceramic and the glossy white finish looks great in both a neutral bathroom and something with a little pop of colour.
Butler & Rose Ceramic Oval Countertop Basin - 560mm
£99.99
Round Countertop Basins
If you prefer a stylish and modern touch in your bathroom then why not opt for a round countertop basin? These certainly make a big statement and wouldn’t look out of place in a boutique spa or luxury hotel.
Our favourite is the Billy Fluted basin with its elegant, fluted design suiting all types of bathroom spaces - large or small. The added texture gives your bathroom another dimension, while the matt white finish is bag on trend.
In terms of durability, the Billy ticks all boxes. The ceramic material is strong and smooth providing a non-porous surface that's easy to clean. There are no tap holes or overflow with this basin, so best paired with a wall mounted tap or tall basin tap.
If you're looking for a real statement piece in your bathroom, the Billy is a real contender.
Billy Fluted Matt White Round Countertop Basin - 360mm
£119.99
Rectangular Countertop Basins
Rectangular countertop basins are effortlessly beautiful combining a classic shape with contemporary installation. You can find a lot of varying designs within our range of rectangular countertop basins too - from curved edges and fluted textures to art deco inspired.
We've chosen to highlight the Harbour Virtue rectangle basin for its simplistic yet uber modern design and affordable price tag. This bestseller has a clean, glossy finish and we love to pair it with the Core Wall Mounted Basin Tap.
You can also match the basin waste to your chosen brassware if you prefer - whether that's brushed brass or matt black.
The virtue is made from a durable polymarble material and comes with a lifetime guarantee. We love the cute, compact yet versatile size of this counter basin. At 500mm wide, it's ideal for even the smallest bathrooms, yet substantial enough for all your needs!
Harbour Virtue Countertop Basin - 500mm
£139.99
Square Countertop Basins
Another shape that is starting to become very popular in countertop sinks is square. This shape looks effortlessly chic and can often have greater depth to allow for catching splashes.
This shape is quite popular for smaller bathrooms, en suites and cloakrooms, thanks to the more compact options available and the versatile shape.
You'll find special finishes and textured designs, such as with fluted ceramic, within our range of square countertop basins.
We've chosen to highlight the Sophia Square Basin which has 420 x 420mm dimensions making it neat and compact for smaller spaces. It has a rounded edge design to soften slightly and is constructed from a high quality and durable ceramic with a glossy finish.
The Sophia is a versatile and elegant basin. It comes with one tap hole so is best paired with one of our mono basin mixers.
Sophia Square 1 Tap Hole Countertop Basin - 420 x 420mm
£74.99
Concrete Countertop Basins
If you're after something really special then opting for a concrete basin is definitely worth considering. Concrete basins combine a sleek and sophisticated edge with the appeal of natural materials.
If you like the idea of luxury without the huge price tag, these are a really great option. Priced very competitively, the Harbour Concrete range not only offers high-end style but opens up a world of colour possibility too.
In one of our most exciting ranges, you can choose from a number of styles, shapes and colours to complement your personality and your space. From dusky pink to seafoam green, as well as more traditional concrete colours, and with round, rectangular and fluted options available, if you're after maximum impact and personalised style - you have to take a look!
Marble Countertop Basins
Another style-winning range comes with the Harbour Tuscany, available in both a round and rectangular shape with a delightful choice of marble finishes. Marble has long been synonymous with luxury in a bathroom and the Tuscany basins offer this high-end design at much more affordable prices.
You can choose from a classic marble aesthetic with the Carrara White option or go for something a little more daring with the darker, Arabescato White finish. Both of these finishes can be chosen with a round or rectangle basin shape. Pair these with one of our wall mounted taps and a matching vanity unit.
These basins are handcrafted from premium marble which is renowned for its durability. Each basin will have unique markings ensuring you really are investing in something distinctive and personal to you - no two basins will have the same patination.
Harbour Tuscany 350mm Marble Countertop Basin
From £329.99
Looking for something a little bit different?
Shape and material are crucial when choosing a counter basin but there are also lots of other exciting design and aesthetic-led basins to consider as well.
We especially love this Harbour round basin in a stunning brushed brass finish, also available in a gunmetal finish. And for something a little more chic and sophisticated, we love the matt black oval basin from Harbour.
Harbour Oval Matt Finish Countertop Basin - 565 x 350mm
From £139.99
Harbour Brushed Brass Round PVD Countertop Basin with Waste - 377mm
£199.99
Crosswater Circus Brushed Stainless Steel Effect 400mm Round Countertop Basin
£626.99
Countertop Basin Vanity Units
If you’re sold on the idea of a countertop basin then it's definitely worth taking a look at a countertop vanity unit. These offer all the benefits of a countertop basin along with good storage and a beautifully stylish look.
Billy 1400mm Wall Hung Vanity Unit with Fluted Drawer Front & Marble Sintered Stone Worktop
From £849.99
Erin 600mm Wall Mounted 2 Drawer Vanity Unit & Countertop
From £249.99
Drench has a whole array of countertop basin units, ranging from cloakroom vanity units to wall mounted countertop basin units.
