This blog specifically discusses bathroom basins, but we recommend that you consider this along with your broader bathroom renovation. You can read in our introduction to bathroom design about setting bathroom basins in context.
How do you select the perfect hand basin when designing or renovating your bathroom? There’s more to it than meets the eye. Not only is its function important, but a basin also creates a focal point to elevate your bathroom’s aesthetic appeal.
There are plenty of basin options you can choose from.
Whether you’re planning a complete bathroom makeover or simply updating fixtures, understanding the alternative hand basins available can help you make an informed choice, balancing style, practicality and budget.
Popular bathroom basin designs
Wall-mounted basins
Wall-mounted basins are fixed directly to the wall, creating a minimalist, space-saving solution that’s perfect for contemporary bathrooms. These basins leave floor space visible, enhancing the perception of spaciousness – ideal for smaller bathrooms or en-suites. Quality suppliers offer stunning wall-mounted options that combine practicality with sleek design.
Pedestal & half-pedestal basins
The classic pedestal basin features a ceramic column that conceals plumbing while providing structural support. This timeless choice remains popular in UK homes, particularly in traditional and heritage-inspired bathrooms. Half-pedestal variants attach to the wall with a smaller column that hides pipes without extending to the floor, offering a compromise between wall-mounted and full-pedestal designs.
Counter-Top and Undermount Basins
Counter-top basins (also called vessel basins) sit entirely above the bathroom furniture, creating a striking design statement. Conversely, undermount basins are installed beneath a cut-out in the countertop for a seamless finish. Both styles work wonderfully with bathroom vanity units, providing additional storage to keep toiletries organised.
Inset and Semi-Recessed Basins
Inset basins drop into a pre-cut hole in bathroom furniture, with the rim sitting above the surface. Semi-recessed basins project partially from bathroom furniture, allowing for shallower units that don’t protrude as far into the room – perfect for bathrooms where space optimisation is essential.
Speciality basins
Corner basins utilise awkward bathroom spaces efficiently, while cloakroom basins are specifically designed for smaller downstairs WCs or powder rooms. For luxury bathrooms, freestanding basins make an impressive statement, while washstands combine vintage charm with modern functionality.
Handbasin shapes, sizes and configurations
Modern bathroom design embraces diversity in basin shapes – from perfectly round bowls to rectangular troughs, oval contours to asymmetrical artistic pieces. Traditional bathrooms often feature basins with softer curves and decorative details, while contemporary spaces may boast geometric forms with crisp edges.
For families or couples, double basins offer practical morning convenience, allowing multiple users simultaneously. Some basins feature left or right-handed configurations, with the tap hole positioned accordingly to maximise usable space within your bathroom layout.
Technical considerations for bathroom basins
Basin wastes, overflows and bottle traps
Basin wastes generally come in click-clack, flip-top, pop up or traditional plug-and-chain varieties. We find click-clack to be the most aesthetically pleasing and practical. Most basins incorporate an overflow to safeguard against taps being left running unattended. Remember, if you choose a basin with no overflow (like a countertop vessel), you will need an unslotted waste. Equally, for a basin with overflow, choose a slotted waste – the overflow then runs into the slot (out of view) and away to the drain, preventing your bathroom from flooding.
Bottle traps prevent smells from returning to the bathroom. If they are on show, like in this example, choose a stylish design option in chrome, brass or matte black finishes. If hidden in a vanity unit or behind a pedestal, choose a cheaper plastic trap.
Tap holes
Basins typically feature none, one, two or three tap holes – no tap hole for a wall mounted tap, one for a single mixer tap, two for a separate hot and cold tap, and three for a hot and cold tap connected beneath the basin to a central spout where the water mixes. Not all basins offer all tap options so check which combination works for you.
Splashbacks and practical features
Splashbacks protect walls from water damage, particularly valuable in family bathrooms. Tiled bathrooms provide a natural splashback, whereas other finishes may require separate protection in glass or tiled section. For a wainscoted bathroom, you can even coat the timber of MDF in a durable clear varnish. Some of the photos above with a painted finish illustrate this.
Some contemporary basins incorporate features like built-in soap dishes, textured areas for soap placement, or generous rim space for toiletries.
Choosing the right basin taps
Deck-mounted taps
These attach directly to tap holes in the basin itself and are the most common configuration in UK bathrooms. Options range from traditional pillar taps (separate hot and cold) to modern single-lever mixers that control both temperature and flow with one movement.
Wall-mounted taps
Wall-mounted taps create a distinctive look and free up basin space. These work particularly well with counter-top bowls and minimalist bathroom designs but require specific plumbing before installation. This may mean chasing the wall behind to install the pipes and valve, or making use of the internal space of a partition.
Tap position, styles and operation
You’ll need to decide whether the taps will be centrally located, or to the left and right. Some basins are left- and right-handed so make sure you order the correct one for your design. You’ll also want to consider the operation: traditional rotating cross-head handles, contemporary lever controls, or high-tech motion sensors for touch-free hygiene.
Handbasin materials and finishes
Ceramic and porcelain
The most popular choices for UK bathrooms, ceramic and porcelain basins offer durability, heat resistance and easy cleaning. Vitreous china provides a glossy, non-porous finish that resists staining.
Stone and composite materials
Natural stone basins (marble, granite) or composite alternatives deliver unique character with each piece. These premium options create stunning focal points but require specific cleaning regimes to maintain their appearance.
Alternative materials
Contemporary bathrooms might feature glass, concrete, metal or solid surface materials like Corian. Each offers distinctive aesthetic qualities alongside various practical considerations regarding maintenance and longevity.
Colours and finishes
While classic white remains the most versatile choice, modern basins embrace a broader palette. Soft neutrals like grey, cream and beige offer subtle sophistication, while bold black or coloured basins make dramatic statements. Matte finishes are gaining popularity for their contemporary feel and fingerprint resistance.
Bathroom basins installation
Professional installation ensures proper function and prevents costly water damage. Consider access to plumbing, weight support requirements (particularly for wall-mounted options), and compatibility with existing pipework. Leave approximately 80-100cm from floor to basin rim for comfortable use by adults, adjusting for specific user needs.
Basin convenience
Position a stylish mirror or mirror cabinet above your basin to enhance functionality and create the illusion of space. Quality options range from simple frameless designs to illuminated smart mirrors with demisting technology.
Install a coordinating towel ring or small towel rail nearby for convenience. Selecting bathroom accessories that complement your basin and tap finishes creates a cohesive, thoughtfully designed space.
Choosing the perfect bathroom basin involves balancing practical requirements with aesthetic preferences.
At Style Within, we consider the various styles, materials and installation factors outlined above. Our guidance is tailored to your specific requirements, integrating seamlessly with your bathroom vision.
If you want to discuss ideas with us, please get in touch, and we’ll help you choose the best basin options for your space, lifestyle, and budget.
