Counter-Top Basins

What Is a Counter-Top Basin?

A counter-top basin sits on top of a vanity unit counter rather than being recessed into it or mounted to a wall. Also called a vessel basin or bowl basin, the unit stands proud of the surface — the rim sits above the counter, so you approach from above rather than looking over an inset edge. Counter-top basins come in round, oval, rectangular and square profiles, in white vitreous china and matt black ceramic. Because the rim sits high above the counter, a tall or high-rise basin tap is required — a standard-height tap will not reach the basin. Wastes are typically click-clack or push-button and drop through the counter surface into the unit below.

Pairing and Buying Tips

Counter-top basins work with any flat vanity unit top. Most buyers pair them with a Freestanding Vanity Unit or a Wall Hung Vanity Unit with an open-top counter. Before ordering, confirm the counter depth — a basin that overhangs the front edge pushes the tap position back and affects water reach into the bowl. Also check the waste outlet position lines up with the unit's internal drainage route. Matt black models suit darker furniture finishes; white vitreous china works with most colour schemes. For wall-mounted basins without a unit, see Wall-Mounted Basins. Return to Basins for the complete range.