What goes around comes around. This year, one of the most popular bathroom trends is classic 1930s style, with the shapely silhouette of a pedestal sink as its defining piece. These vintage-inspired sinks have made a comeback and are now more popular than ever!

When shopping for a pedestal sink, consider what will look best in your bathroom in terms of design, finish and scale. You’ll find a mix of price ranges and styles on the market, from angular contemporary looks to traditional reproductions to amazing vintage finds.


Before you buy

• Take measurements to determine what size sink is best for your space. How much width and depth do you have for the widest part of the basin? Leave a little space on both sides and between the sink and the wall. Consider the scale of the piece in relation to the size of the space – the sink shouldn’t overpower the bathroom design, or vice versa.
• If you’re replacing a built-in vanity with a pedestal sink, ensure that there’s a finished wall, flooring and trim behind the closed structure – otherwise the project may be much larger and more costly than anticipated. And confirm that the wall is strong enough to support the basin of the sink.
• Make sure the sink you choose is compatible with your faucet selection. Most sinks come pre-drilled with either a four-inch (centre set) or eight- to 12-inch (widespread) distance between the hot and cold tap handles and a centred single-hole drilling to accommodate a single-hole faucet.

Select a style

• A pedestal sink is comprised of two pieces: the sink basin and the pedestal column underneath. The basin is partially supported by the wall it’s attached to, as well as by the pedestal itself, which also works to hide plumbing.
• A washstand usually has a hard-surface countertop (marble or granite) and a sink. The top rests on two legs with a front crossbar for bath towels. The unit is wall mounted and the plumbing is exposed underneath.
• A console features a sink and surround top made of porcelain supported by four legs. It often has a built-in backsplash. The console offers an old-world feel.

 

(1) Archer pedestal sink. kohler.ca, from $357.
(2) Vintage pedestal sink. restorationhardware.com, from $895 US.

Where to use it

• Areas with width and/or depth restrictions or limited floor space (for example, a powder room or small bathroom in a home).
• Use two sinks in a larger bathroom as a pair of his and hers.
• In lieu of a fully closed, built-in vanity where a period-specific style or vintage charm is desired.

 

(1) Small Promenade pedestal sink. gingersbath.com, from $379.
(2) Bancroft pedestal sink. kohler.ca, from $894.

Tip
To capture the look of a 1930s bathroom, start with a pedestal sink, washstand or console; then add a polished chrome or nickel faucet, black and white tiles, vintage-inspired lighting, a pivoting mirror, a wall-mounted soap dish and classic hardware. As a finishing touch, instll a free-standing clawfoot tub.

(1) Zero pedestal sink. gingersbath.com, from $619.
(2) Memoirs pedestal sink with Crimson Topaz design. Kohler.ca, from $1,894.