What is a Workstation Sink?

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Ruvati Roma sink features mahogany cutting board and foldable drying rack

Image courtesy of Ruvati

By Ashley Zimmermann, Creative Content Director for @designREMODEL

Multifunctionality and efficiency are the names of the game. In this era of WFH (work-from-home), the home has become the nucleus of life for singles and families, so the need for multipurpose, efficient space is more crucial than ever. Multifunctionality is the number one feature in discussions about the workstation sink. Demand for the workstation sink has increased over the last few years, and this item will soon become one of the most desirable, sought-after kitchen remodel items. 

But what is a workstation sink?

A workstation sink, also known as a chef sink, allows two people to work simultaneously. This type of sink often has interchangeable parts and accessories to easily carry you through the meal prep process, start to finish. Ruvati says of their workstation sinks, “You can do all your prep work right on top of your sink and keep your countertops clean and free of mess.”

So why might you want to consider a chef sink for your home? There is a reason these workstation sink designs are chef-inspired. Workstation sinks have been used in commercial kitchens and culinary arts circles for decades, and the word has spread to home chefs that the benefits are really that good.

Forbes explains:

“These accessories usually slide across the single or double basin on built-in sink ledges or secure to the side of the sink. Many of the accessories are dishwasher safe, as well, which further shortens kitchen cleanup chores.”

Multifunctional and versatile 

The Ruvati Roma is a prime example of a quality, moderately-priced workstation sink. Ruvati prides itself on multifunctionality and versatility. The magic is in the tracks built into the sink unit, which allows you to slide accessories onto and off the unit as needed. The accessories included with the 32-inch Workstation Ledge Undermount 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink Single Bowl include an African mahogany cutting board, stainless steel colander, foldable dish drying rack, and decorative drain cover.

Ruvatis retail in the $300- $600 range, well worth your investment. In addition to their functionality, a Ruvati product is classically beautiful with clean lines built upon the il bello e il buono philosophy, meaning the beauty and quality of Italian style.

Mise en Place

Kohler partnered with two chefs, Ulrich Koberstein and Ryan Andersen of the American Club Resort Hotel, to design their Stages kitchen sink. Andersen explains that the sink is often a “dead space” in the kitchen, but this workstation-type sink brings back utility. The sink becomes a functional space and transforms into a “working stage.”

“Mise en place” translates from French to English as “putting in place” or “everything in place.” This method of cooking means that cooking ingredients and cookware is prepared and ready to use. Mise en place is a tried and true technique used by chefs. Think of a morning show when a guest chef walks through a recipe with the hosts- they are practicing mise en place with all their ingredients measured and ready to go in tiny ‘pinch’ bowls.

A workstation sink makes it easier for you to don the chef’s hat yourself; all accessories are within arm’s reach and can be used right on top of the sink. (High-end units may have a specific location right within the workstation.) Clean-up becomes easier and more hygienic because your cooking utensils become more centralized. All of these attributes come together to create organization and efficiency. 

Efficient and Streamlined

The term ‘workstation’ has connotations of efficiency. TruBuild Construction tells us, “The common accessories included in many workstation sinks are: drying rack, colander, cutting board, and bottom grid.” As mentioned above, Ruvati units come with a cutting board, colander, foldable dish drying rack, and decorative drain cover.

The Kohler Stages sink showcases a deep, single basin that is angled to allow draining at the end of its use. Also included is a raised stainless steel section within the sink specifically for messy meal prep (the Kohler video highlights the chefs wrangling some crustaceans) that you would typically need to do in another flat space in your kitchen. With a workstation sink, you can work right on top of the sink space, rinse into the basin, and wash once you finish. The workstation helps streamline your cooking process and helps keep your kitchen more hygienic. Koberstein also points out the included container for holding knives, sharps, and tongs at arm’s length without the risk of cutting yourself searching for a knife in the sink water. The Kohler Stages sink retails in the $2,000- $3,000 range.

Elegant

To get an accurate picture of what a luxury workstation kitchen sink can offer, I suggest watching The Galley’s video about their Dresser (linked below); I did not truly understand the vision until I saw the care, attention to detail, and artistic craftsmanship put into this item. The Galley presents their Dresser as a “work of art.” This is no ordinary kitchen feature. The Dresser is transformative. The Galley’s instructions to nuHaus designer Doug Durbin about their collaborative project were to “make it stunningly beautiful and really, really functional.”

The Galley Dresser is undoubtedly a luxury investment piece, and you get what you pay for. You can choose from four different sizes, thirteen different cabinet finishes, and nine different hardware and trim finishes. The “culinary kit” includes two stainless steel mixing bowls and lids, a dual-tier drying rack, two dual-tier cutting boards, two dual-tier platforms, and two stainless steel colanders. Visit The Galley’s website to view technical drawings, a list of the Interior Craftsmanship & Storage details, and the Exterior Craftsmanship & Detailing list.

Apart from its functionality, the Dresser is exquisitely beautiful. It is a statement piece. The Galley website features a couple in cocktail attire, drinks in hand, socializing next to their Dresser. I imagine this vision is spot-on; one could easily entertain around the unit while preparing and serving up hors d'oeuvres.

Having never worked “back-of-the-house” in food service, I never second-guessed the utility of my sinks. After learning about the workstation sink, I understand the desirability and see the need and utility. You can accomplish so much in such a small space!