Choosing a bathroom basin: above counter, semi recessed, undermount or wall hung

The basin is easy to treat as an afterthought once the vanity is chosen, but it shapes how the whole vanity works. It decides the height of the rim, which tap you need, how much bench space you keep and how easy the area is to wipe down. Here is a practical comparison of the main types.

Above counter basins

An above counter basin, sometimes called a vessel basin, sits on top of the benchtop. It is the most popular look in current bathrooms.

• Pros: a strong design feature, a huge choice of shapes and materials, and simple to replace later.
• Cons: it raises the rim height, so the vanity usually needs to be mounted lower. You also need a tall basin mixer or a wall mixer to reach over the rim.

Browse above counter basins and stone basins, such as the Pietra Bianca Bianca basin.

Undermount basins

An undermount basin is fixed under a stone or solid surface benchtop, so the benchtop edge forms the rim.

• Pros: very easy to clean, because you can wipe water straight into the basin. A sleek, built in look.
• Cons: needs a stone or solid surface top with a cut out, so it is planned with the benchtop. Harder to change later.

See undermount basins.

Semi recessed basins

A semi recessed basin sits partly into the vanity and overhangs the front. It lets you use a shallower vanity while keeping a comfortable basin size, which suits small bathrooms and ensuites. See semi recessed basins.

Wall hung and pedestal basins

Wall hung basins fix straight to the wall with no cabinet, which suits powder rooms and tiny ensuites where floor space matters most. Pedestal basins stand on a column that hides the plumbing and suit classic and heritage bathrooms. Both give up storage, so consider a shaving cabinet above. See pedestal basins and the Pietra Bianca Briza wall hung basin.

Integrated tops

Many vanities come with a ceramic, polymarble or stone top that has the basin moulded in. They are seamless, easy to clean and often the most practical option for family bathrooms. Check the vanity listing to see if a top is included.

Sizing the basin

• Width: leave bench space on at least one side for toiletries. On a 600mm vanity, a 400mm to 450mm basin is usually the limit.
• Depth front to back: make sure there is room behind the basin for the mixer, or plan a wall mixer.
• Bowl depth: shallow bowls look elegant but splash more. If the basin gets heavy use, choose a deeper bowl.

Pairing basins with tapware

Basin	Tapware that suits
Above counter	Tall basin mixer or wall mixer with spout
Undermount	Standard basin mixer on the bench, or wall mixer
Semi recessed	Standard basin mixer behind the basin
Wall hung	Wall mixer or basin mixer if the basin has a tap hole

The spout should land the water near the centre of the bowl, so check the reach on the specification sheet. See tall basin mixers, short basin mixers and wall mixers.

Wastes and overflow

Basins with an overflow need a slotted waste, and basins without one need an unslotted waste. A pop up or click clack waste is easiest to use. Match the waste finish to your tapware. See plug and wastes.

Materials

Ceramic basins are durable, affordable and easy to clean. Stone and solid surface basins have a soft matte look and feel substantial. Each needs gentle cleaning without harsh chemicals. You can compare the feel of each at our Geelong and Reservoir showrooms. For vanity sizes, see our vanity size guide.

Common questions

What tap do I need for an above counter basin?

A tall basin mixer that reaches over the rim, or a wall mixer and spout. Check the spout reaches near the centre of the bowl.

Are undermount basins easier to clean?

Yes. Because there is no rim on the bench, you can wipe water and toothpaste straight into the basin. They need a stone or solid surface benchtop.

Which basin suits a small bathroom?

A semi recessed basin on a slim vanity, or a wall hung basin, saves the most space while keeping a usable bowl.

Visit us or shop online

See the range in person at our showrooms: Geelong at 35A Ryrie St, Geelong VIC 3220, phone (03) 5223 2765, and Reservoir at 214 Broadway, Reservoir VIC 3073, phone (03) 9867 5051. Both are open Monday to Friday 9:30am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:30am to 3:00pm, and Sunday by appointment only.

Planning a renovation? Request a quote and a free measure, and ask us to include installation by our qualified trades if you would like it quoted. Prefer to shop from home? Order online with Australia-wide delivery, or pick up from either showroom, usually ready in 2 to 4 days.