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Fienza Benson Butler Sink Buying Guide
The Fienza Benson is a large single bowl butler sink in matte black fine fireclay, with a front panel that can be fitted fluted or flat. It suits a farmhouse, modern country or dark-toned kitchen where the sink is meant to be a feature, and where there is a wide run of bench to give it room.
What size is the Fienza Benson butler sink?
The Benson measures about 830mm long, 450mm front to back and 255mm high, and the product name rounds this to 828 x 452 x 254mm. Inside, the bowl is 795 x 415mm and 220mm deep, holding about 70 litres. That is large enough to soak oven trays, stockpots and roasting pans flat. Fienza advises allowing a tolerance of plus or minus 15mm on fireclay because each sink is fired individually, so measure the sink itself before the cabinet and benchtop are finalised.
What is a reversible fluted and flat front?
The apron front of the Benson has a fluted, ribbed face on one side and a plain flat face on the other. You decide which face shows when the sink is installed. The fluted side adds texture and a traditional feel, while the flat side gives a cleaner, more contemporary line.
What is fireclay, and is a black fireclay sink practical?
Fireclay is a ceramic clay fired at high temperature and glazed on all sides. The Benson is made from fine fireclay using European materials. The glazed surface is non-porous, so it resists stains, odours and scratches. Matte black hides tea and coffee marks better than white, though hard water can leave light mineral marks that are easy to wipe away. Fireclay is heavy, and a heavy pan dropped from height can chip it, so a sink grid on the bowl floor is a sensible addition.
How is a butler sink installed?
Fienza lists two methods for the Benson: undermount, where the benchtop overhangs the sink edge, and flushmount, where the sink top sits level with the bench. Both need permanent support shelving inside the cabinet to carry the weight of the sink, water and dishes. The cabinet is usually built around the sink, so a cabinet maker, benchtop fabricator and plumber all need the sink's exact size. Undermount fitting suits stone benchtops and is not recommended for timber or laminate.
What waste and tap does the Benson need?
The Benson needs a 90mm basket waste, sold separately. Fienza lists four compatible wastes: A3SS, A3CM, A3CO and A3RB, so you can match the finish of your tap. With a 220mm deep bowl, choose a mixer with enough height and reach to direct water into the centre of the sink. A pull-out or gooseneck mixer is a practical choice.
How do I clean a fireclay sink?
Wipe the sink with mild soapy water and a soft cloth, then dry it to prevent water marks. A pH-neutral cleaner suits regular use. Avoid abrasive powders, bleach, ammonia cleaners and steel wool. Do not place hot items directly on the surface, and rinse away harsh chemicals such as hair dye or nail polish remover straight away.
Completing the room
Compare the gloss white Fienza Olivia and Fienza Charlton, or browse butler and apron sinks, kitchen taps and sink wastes at The Blue Space.
