How to Choose Your Farmhouse Sink: The Ultimate Guide for a Modern Kitchen Remodel
Are you planning a kitchen remodel or a quick kitchen refresh? One of the most striking and functional upgrades you can make is installing a farmhouse sink. Loved for their deep basins, timeless look, and practicality, these sinks are no longer just for rustic settings. Whether you’re going for a modern farmhouse, traditional, or sleek contemporary style, there's a farmhouse sink to match.
In this post, we’ll explore the different materials, the best budget-friendly brands, and why a 33" farmhouse sink is a perfect match for your 36" sink cabinet.
Best Materials for Farmhouse Sinks: Pros & Cons
When selecting your kitchen sink, the material matters just as much as the style. Here's a quick overview of the most popular materials:
Fireclay – The Classic Farmhouse Choice
Best for: White farmhouse look
Pros: Durable, stain-resistant, glossy, non-porous
Cons: Heavy, can chip, more expensive
Style fit: Perfect for modern farmhouse, traditional, or classic kitchen cabinets
Cast Iron with Enamel Coating
Pros: Glossy, durable, available in white
Cons: Heavy, enamel can chip, requires gentle cleaning
Ideal for: Vintage charm or timeless elegance
Stainless Steel – Sleek & Versatile
Pros: Lightweight, modern, budget-friendly, heat/stain-resistant
Cons: Scratches and water spots are common
Style fit: Great for modern kitchens, minimalist homes, and accessible design
Granite Composite
Pros: Scratch- and heat-resistant, matte finish, modern tones
Cons: Limited bright white options, heavier, cost varies
Style fit: Modern or contemporary kitchens with stone countertops
Acrylic / Solid Surface
Pros: Lightweight, cost-effective, customizable
Cons: Less durable, can stain or scratch over time
Best Option for a 33" White Farmhouse Sink
Fireclay is the top choice. It offers the authentic farmhouse look, a glossy white finish, and long-lasting durability that makes it a smart investment over time. Unlike some cheaper materials, fireclay is both beautiful and built to last through years of heavy kitchen use.
High-end brands like Rohl, Kohler, and Bocchi are known for their precision craftsmanship, heat resistance, and timeless style. While they may come at a higher upfront cost, they typically require fewer repairs, maintain their finish longer, and ultimately add more value to your home.
💡 Why it's sometimes worth paying more: Spending a bit more on quality materials like fireclay ensures your sink stays beautiful and functional for decades—saving you from future replacements or ongoing maintenance headaches.
Affordable Farmhouse Sink Brands: Real Reviews
If you're working within a budget or simply want a stylish and practical sink without spending top dollar, these brands offer exceptional value:
DeerValley
Material: Fireclay
Why we like it: Affordable and stylish with a bright white finish and minimalistic design. It feels like premium at a budget.
Best for: Budget-conscious kitchen remodels aiming for a high-end farmhouse look.
Grove (formerly VIGO)
Material: Fireclay and stainless options
Why we like it: Sleek, well-built, modern lines. A great fit for modern farmhouse or transitional styles.
Bonus: Available in matte black and matte white for design flexibility.
Ruvati
Material: Stainless steel and fireclay
Why we like it: Known for their workstation sinks—functionality meets style. Stainless steel models are especially great for modern and accessible kitchens.
Best for: Homeowners looking for function, durability, and a touch of industrial design.
KIBI
Material: Fireclay and stainless steel
Why we like it: Offers solid construction and clean aesthetics without breaking the bank.
Design note: Offers slightly shallower options, great for those seeking more ergonomic use.
Sizing Matters: Why 33" Sinks Fit Best in 36" Sink Cabinets
The 36-inch sink base cabinet is the most common cabinet size in kitchens. A 33" farmhouse sink fits perfectly, leaving room for proper support and installation.
This size gives you:
A deep basin for soaking large pots and pans
Enough clearance for front apron exposure
Flexibility for under-mount or flush-mount installation
Whether you're updating kitchen cabinets in Tri Cities or refreshing a city loft kitchen, a 33” sink is the sweet spot.
More Than Just Farmhouse Style
Don’t be fooled by the name—farmhouse sinks aren’t only for country homes. Thanks to versatile materials like stainless steel, they’re a fantastic fit for modern kitchens, industrial lofts, and even minimalist spaces.
Beyond looks, here’s why they’re functional:
Deep, wide basins for easier cleaning
Fewer seams and lips for better accessibility
Comfortable working height with apron front
So whether you're refreshing an urban condo or renovating a farmhouse outside the Tri Cities, the farmhouse sink adds both beauty and performance to your kitchen.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right farmhouse sink for your kitchen remodel comes down to:
Material: Fireclay for classic white, stainless for modern and affordable
Size: 33” sinks are ideal for most 36” base cabinets
Budget: Brands like DeerValley, Grove, Ruvati, and KIBI offer great value
Style: Works with everything from rustic farmhouse to modern kitchens
Ready to upgrade your kitchen? A well-chosen sink can transform both form and function—without draining your wallet.
