Turner Hastings Butler Sinks

Turner Hastings Butler Sinks: A Modern Aussie Kitchen Staple

Picking a new kitchen sink is a pretty big deal when you stop and think about it. You're going to use it every single day, so it's got to be tough, practical, and you want it to look good, right? If you’ve been flicking through kitchen designs online, you've definitely seen those big, handsome sinks that sit forward from the cabinets. They’re called butler sinks, and they've made a massive comeback. Here at The Blue Space, we're huge fans, particularly of the ones from Turner Hastings. They’ve managed to capture that classic country charm but make it work for today's kitchens in Australia.

So What Exactly Is a Butler Sink?

What's the story with these sinks? A butler sink, which you might also hear called a farmhouse or apron-front sink, is basically a deep, rectangular basin. The thing that really makes it stand out is its exposed front wall, or 'apron', which juts out a little from the cabinetry. This wasn't just for looks back in the day; it was designed so you could stand right up against the sink without having to lean over a bit of benchtop, saving your back. Turner Hastings has taken this classic idea and perfected it for modern living. Their sinks are famous for top-notch materials and craftsmanship, meaning you get a sink that’s both a workhorse and a bit of a stunner.

Where Would a Turner Hastings Sink Work?

The great thing about a modern butler sink is how well it can fit into different styles. You probably imagine one sitting perfectly in a Hamptons or French Provincial kitchen, and you’re not wrong. They're pretty much the hero piece in those kitchens. The clean, solid look of a white fireclay sink is a perfect match for shaker cabinets and stone benchtops.

But they aren't just for traditional setups. A Turner Hastings butler sink can look absolutely amazing in a super modern or industrial kitchen. Picture a sharp, black ceramic sink against sleek, handleless cabinets. It adds a bit of texture and substance that stops a minimalist space from feeling too cold. They’re also brilliant in laundries, giving you a huge tub for soaking things without taking up floor space.

Breaking Down the Turner Hastings Range

Turner Hastings knows that every kitchen is different. They’ve got a whole range of kitchen sinks so you can find one that fits your layout and how you cook. Let's have a look at the choices you'll be making.

How It's Installed

The way the sink sits in your benchtop is a big decision. With the classic butler or apron sink look, you've got a couple of main options:

• Undermount: This is what most people go for if they want a clean, smooth bench. An undermount sink is mounted under the benchtop, so there's no lip on top. It means you can wipe crumbs and water straight from the counter into the sink. Super easy to keep clean and looks fantastic with stone or solid benchtops.

• Inset or Drop-in: An inset sink, or drop-in sink, has a visible rim that sits on top of the counter. It's a slightly different look and can sometimes be a bit simpler for your installer.

One thing to remember is that these sinks are heavy. They need a special cabinet built to support their weight, with the front panel cut to show off the apron. It’s not a standard cabinet, so you'll need to chat with your cabinet maker, but the final integrated look is well worth it.

One Bowl or Two?

This all comes down to how you work in the kitchen.

• Single Bowl Sinks: For many, a big single bowl butler sink is the dream. You get this huge, wide-open basin with no divider in the way. It’s brilliant for washing massive pots, oven trays, and BBQ grills that just won't squeeze into a regular sink. If you use a dishwasher for your daily plates and cups, a single bowl is often the most useful setup.

• Double Bowl Sinks: A double bowl sink is for the multitaskers. You can have soapy water in one side and be rinsing in the other. Turner Hastings has models with two big bowls, or you can get a 1.75 bowl sink, which gives you a main bowl and a smaller second one. It's handy for separating tasks.

Finding the Right Size

Butler sinks are generally on the larger side, but they're not all gigantic. You can find more compact models, often called small sinks, that are perfect for a smaller kitchen or a butler's pantry. Then you have the really generous ones that can be a major feature on a kitchen island. Just think about the scale of your room. A giant sink might look a bit much in a tiny kitchen, and a small one could get lost in a big open-plan area.

Materials and Colours

The material really sets the tone for your sink. This is where Turner Hastings really shines.

• Fine Fireclay: This is their signature stuff. It's a special type of ceramic that's fired at crazy-high temperatures. The result is a material that's tough as nails. It resists scratches and chips, and it won't stain from things like coffee or red wine. The most popular finish is a classic gloss white sink, which never goes out of style.

• Colour Options: If you want to make more of a statement, they have some great coloured sinks. A moody black kitchen sink, for example, looks incredible in a modern kitchen and really draws the eye.

• Other Materials: You can also get the butler look in other materials. Stainless steel sinks give off a more professional kitchen vibe. They can even be finished in colours like gunmetal, gold, or brass. A brushed nickel sink offers a softer metallic look. A solid surface kitchen sink is another option, giving you a matte, stone-like feel.

The Real-World Perks of a Turner Hastings Sink

Sure, they look good. But what are the actual, day-to-day benefits of having one?

1. They're Built to Last. Seriously

A Turner Hastings fireclay sink isn't something you'll have to worry about. The material is incredibly hard-wearing. You can put hot pans in it, you can accidentally drop a knife in it, and it will stand up to the punishment. It's a genuine long-term investment for your kitchen.

2. That Deep Basin is a Lifesaver

The depth is one of the best things about a butler sink. For starters, it can hide a stack of dirty dishes when guests pop over unexpectedly, making your kitchen look instantly cleaner. It also means less water splashes out onto your benchtops and floor. And of course, the huge capacity makes washing big items so much easier.

3. They Just Don't Go Out of Style

Kitchen fads come and go, but the butler sink is a true classic. It has a kind of authentic charm that has been loved for a very long time. Putting one in your kitchen adds a feeling of quality and character that won't look dated in five years. It’s a choice that can even add value to your home.

4. Super Simple to Keep Clean

That shiny glaze on the fireclay does more than just look pretty. It creates a smooth surface that’s non-porous, so germs and grime have nowhere to hide. A quick wipe with a soft cloth and a bit of mild soap is all it takes to keep it looking new. No fiddly corners for gunk to get trapped in.

A Few Final Things to Consider

Before you jump in, here are a couple more things to think about to get your setup just right.

Picking the Right Tap

Your tap choice makes a big difference. Since butler sinks don’t have a built-in spot for a tap, yours will be mounted on the wall or your benchtop. A tall, arching 'gooseneck' tap is a great pick because it gives you lots of room to get big pots underneath. For a more traditional look, a bridge-style tap is beautiful. Or for a modern kitchen, a simple mixer tap or one with a pull-out spray is super handy.

Handy Accessories

To really get the most out of your sink, check out some of the available kitchen accessories. A custom-fit sink grid is a brilliant idea. These protective sink mats and grids sit in the bottom of the basin and stop heavy pots from causing any scratches. They also let water drain away when you’ve got things soaking. Other clever extras include things like chopping boards and colanders designed to fit perfectly over the top of the sink.

Meeting Specific Needs

It's also worth knowing that Turner Hastings thinks about everybody. They have a collection of assisted living kitchen sinks, which include clever design features that make them easier and more comfortable to use for people who might have mobility issues, all while still looking great.

When it comes down to it, a Turner Hastings butler sink is a fantastic hub for any kitchen. It pulls together classic looks, tough performance, and real-world usefulness. Take a look at our kitchen sink packages to find a bundle that works for you and brings your perfect kitchen one step closer.