Integrating an Antique Slate Sink into a New Kitchen Design

The “old” ….. like new

When most people think of a “new” kitchen, they automatically think all of the elements are…. well, new. This isn’t always the case. I’ve designed entire kitchens around existing pieces such as a vintage range, butcher block top, and most recently, a gigantic double basin slate sink.

My client was very specific about including the existing 5 foot long slate sink in her “new” kitchen. She felt that the sink would help retain some of the original cottage charm of the beach house. I couldn’t have agreed more! The slate sink created such a lovely counter-balance to the brand new painted cabinetry, modern appliances and Silestone countertop.

Problem: The slate sink had seen a better day. It was stained and cracked from years of use. The sink also had an irregular shape on the bottom, most likely a result of accommodating the original base.

Solution: We contacted our local stone fabricator and he agreed to remove the sink, painstakingly restore it to its original beauty, and then reinstall it into the new custom cabinet. When I designed the new base for the sink, I decided to conceal the funny shape on the bottom. This would eliminate the visual busy-ness therefore accentuating the clean lines of the rich black slate.

All-in-all, I think it’s simply fabulous!