Copper is not only a very beautiful and functional metal, according to archaeologists, it is also the first metal used by man. The use of copper potentially dates back as far as 9000 B.C., as evidenced by a piece of copper jewelry found in the Middle East. Copper is used frequently in household applications, primarily in kitchens and bathrooms. It is a common element of pipes and connectors in plumbing systems, a popular material for cookware, and one of the main metals used to create electrical wiring. In recent years, however, kitchen and bathroom designers have found a unique, though not necessarily original, use for the metal in the form of copper sinks.
History of Copper Sinks
Copper was a material frequently used to fashion bowls and basins that served as ‘sinks’ throughout history, especially in Greece and Egypt. Historians attribute this to the fact that copper was such a decorative metal with a range of color tones that made it ideal for wealthier individuals who demanded their basins and bowls be beautiful as well as functional. The Greeks also used the metal to create the first mirrors because of its ability to be polished to such a high reflective shine.
The upper class affinity for copper carried through to the early 19th century when copper became a common material for sink construction. Copper was one of only two metals commonly used for sinks at the time. Unlike homes of today that contain multiple sinks in bathrooms, kitchens, and even garages, sinks in the early 19th century were only found in kitchens and referred to as ‘butler sinks’. Since they were considered a luxury, as were butlers at the time, they were limited to homes of wealthier families.
In the 1940′s, copper became a high demand item for military ammunition and electrical wiring, leading to the decline in popularity of copper sinks. Once the war ended and copper became readily available again, most households had already made the switch to stainless steel sinks which remained the most popular choice until recent years. Copper sinks have once again become a popular choice for bathroom and kitchen use.
Benefits of a Copper Sink
Aside from their unique appearance, copper sinks have risen in popularity for several reasons. Copper itself has a natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal property and can essentially disinfect itself in a matter of hours. This germ fighting feature makes copper bathroom sinks and copper kitchen sinks ideal for health conscious families. It also eliminates a heavy reliance on chemical based disinfectants, making them very environmentally friendly. Soap and water are all that is needed to keep a copper sink clean. Some copper sinks are also made from recycled copper as opposed to freshly mined metals which make them even more eco-friendly.
Higher quality copper sinks are often hand crafted as opposed to machine formed. This human touch is what tends to give copper sinks such an artistic appearance since, in essence each one of them can be considered a unique work of art. Visually , copper sinks are unique because the metal naturally changes color over time. New copper sinks often have very high shine orange tone. As the metal ages, it turns to a beautiful darker shade, almost bronze in appearance. Over time, it can also develop a green patina finish. Rest assured though, depending on your personal preference, there are ways to prevent or reverse the color changing process over time. Copper sinks can also be found in multiple finish options, including polished, brushed, satin, and matte. The textures can vary from smooth, the more traditional choice, to hammered, which gives the copper a slightly bumpy texture.
Copper Sinks In The Kitchen
Copper kitchen sinks are one of the most popular forms on the market today. A traditional copper kitchen sink is often square or rectangular in shape, similar to a traditional stainless steel version, and sets into a pre-cut section of the counter top.
Another popular choice for copper kitchen sinks is the farmhouse design. Popular for their old fashioned charm, farmhouse sinks are often larger than traditional sinks and somewhat deeper as well. Instead of completely setting into the counter top, they usually only sit flush against the counter on 3 sides with an exposed front portion. The front of the sink is also sometimes curved outwards instead of flush.
The third style of copper kitchen sinks is a prep sink. Often found in larger kitchens only, a prep sink is simply a small sink reserved for washing vegetables, cleaning utensils, or other light-duty applications. Prep sinks can also be used as bar sinks as well.
Copper Bathroom Sinks
Copper bathroom sinks present some of the most varied and unique design choices on the market. For traditional designs, a copper bathroom sink can be found in both oval and round designs. They are designed to fit into a counter top or bathroom vanity. A traditional copper bathroom sink is ideal for a smaller area or guest bathroom where the sink isn’t necessarily intended to be a centerpiece in the room.
For individuals looking to make a bolder statement, copper vessel sinks are some of the most striking choices on the market today. Unlike a traditional sunken sink, a vessel sink is designed to sit on top of the counter. Available in both round and oblong bowl shapes, this type of copper vessel sink is as much a piece of art as it is a functional object. Copper vessel sinks are also available in square and rectangular shapes as well for an even more unique appearance.
One of the features available in a copper bathroom sink that is not usually found in the kitchen variety is the highly artistic hammered effect. While kitchen sinks are available with a slightly hammered finish, copper bathroom sinks come in a variety of more extreme hammered textures featuring deep grooves, circular designs, or even leaves and flowers. Copper sinks can also be etched with intricate scroll work or set with beautiful mosaic patterns, adding even more detail.
Conclusion
The beauty of a copper sink is undeniable. Whether it is meant for an ultra modern room or antique decor, its unique color and variety of finishes and tones make it the perfect match for any style or taste.
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