Choose the right counter basin

A counter basin can sit on frame. It can be a pedestal, concrete base or a wooden frame. Photos by Edgar R Batte.

I seldom paid attention to counter basins until I was struck by this particular one with a unique and modern look, on one of my dinner invites to a friend’s house. Ever since then, my eyes just can’t stop noticing and imagining creatively designed counter basins in all types of shapes and sizes.

Size
According to Viola Nabayega, an accounts assistant at ABC Stiles and Bathz, “There are a variety of sizes which include small, medium, and large.” She says each size has a variety of pedestals on which they sit depending on the client’s choice.

“One can opt for a short or long pedestal or even a cabinet when it comes to making a choice for your counter basin stands.” Counter basins also have different uniquely crafted shapes such as oval, circular and rectangular.

Cost
Nabayega says that the size of a counter basin does not determine its cost. However, the price is determined by the design and the quality or origin of the brand. “On a rough estimate, counter basins range between Shs200,000 and Shs500,000.

A strong brand from Italy may cost about Shs499,000 whereas a small size from India may cost between Shs320,000 and Shs240,000.”

Setup
You need to place the right sizes in the right rooms in your house. Nabayega explains how you can go about it.

“For the dinning, you need to place an average sized counter basin. However, if the space in your dining room is limited but you have a spacious corridor, this will be the right place for your counter basin and if you have enough space in your corridor, you can place a big counter basin there.”

“Place a small sized counter basin in a small bathroom to allow ample room for you while using your washrooms.

Additionally, Albert Lapyerm, an interior designer with Critical Concepts Ltd says, “Counter basins are always in the bathroom and toilet spaces, and are specifically placed on top of counters in the vanity areas as opposed to wash hand basins that are fixed on the wall.”

Telling the difference
“Away from kitchen sinks, which are normally made out of stainless steel, counter basins are made of ceramic or glass and can also be tagged as hand wash basins,” Lapyerm explains.

Nabayega adds that before buying a specific counter basin, it is important to measure the available space in the room and potential location of the basin. “There are various brands of counter basins which occupy different spaces from 17inches to 21inches,” she explains.

Maintenance
Hygienic measures in regard to your counter basin is vital as germs and bacteria flood in there every time you use it. “Keep your sink clean by using a soft piece of cloth and do not use sharp objects on the counter basin as these leave scratches.”

“Ensure that your counter basin has a pop up waste which sieves water draining down to prevent the sink from blockages,” Nabayega explains.