CERAMIC TILE is a totally appropriate and authentic material for midcentury bathrooms — and for kitchens, too. I’ve had several readers ask about this over the past few months – so this post is long overdue. Q. Why don’t I focus on tile countertops as much as laminate? Hmm. A. I think it’s because my two bathroom vanities both had laminate so I’m stuck in that mindset. Second, we talked about it when we renovated the bathroom, but my husband really hates tile countertops – says it’s too hard to keep the grout clean. Although: Bronwyn and Greg’s vintage original bathroom sink looks pretty darned good. Dig the green and color combination! Also, this must be tile countertop week – because we featured Jane’s new bathroom vanity yesterday, too. Jane, why did you choose tile. Any tips?

All that said, here’s what I think I know about tile countertops:

• I’ve researched so-called “tile in” sinks, and the only ones available that I could find are (2) round sinks from Kohler and (2) vintage. I guess the round sinks from Kohler would be fine if you can find round-edge trim pieces???
  

  Kohler Caxton tile-in or metal-rim bathroom sink

• I think you should not use glossy tile on a countertop. Will scratch. Use matte, which I think may also be called satin finish by some manufacturers. (You always use a matte/satin or unglazed tile on floors. Even matte/satin can get slippery when wet.)
• You’ll want to use L-shaped bullnose around the edge of the counter. There are corner-pieces, too.
• If you need/want thick tile or bullnose — I don’t have an answer for you. The tile today — which is not mud-set like the old stuff — is much thinner.

Tile countertops actually can be the most affordable solution, especially if you are handy and can do this job yourself. I also think they are quite cheery and functional – with the potential to last longer than laminate.

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This selection now becomes my #1 choice for a kitchen sink, if you want white cast iron and don’t want to hunt down or wait for a vintage sink.

The double-bowl Kohler Delafield is 32″ wide – and allows you to order up to 5 holes for your faucet, spray and other accoutrements.

The single-bowl Kohler Bakersfield is almost as wide.

Kohler.com

Faucet choice

• My favorite faucet for a kitchen sink is this model from Chicago Faucets. It is expensive, but wonderful…heavy and with a nice long spout.

Elkay stainless steel sinks

• And these Elkay steel sinks are also great, if you prefer this material.

Classic white sink/counter drainboard sinks:

• Now, if we could just get someone to begin manufacturing the classic sink/countertop combo in white cast iron…
  

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