Antique and Reclaimed Stone Sinks

Carved stone sinks were a common feature in private homes across England, anchoring the lower level around the daily house hold chores. These wonderful hand hewn sinks have been made over centuries and continued to be made well into the 19th century. From grand manor houses to modest cottages, stone sinks were found in almost every English cellar or scullery.

Scullery stone sinks from the 18th century

Stone sinks were carved from one piece of stone and were made in a wide range of sizes and shapes depending on the household’s needs. They could range from 18 inches in length to over 72 inches in length. This large stone sink shown below was found in Warwickshire, England, measuring over 67 inches in length!

The size and shape of the sink depended on its use. Most were shallow so the person didn’t have to lean too far over to do their work. Often there was a slab on one side or both sides of the sink. These were salting slabs used to prepare and preserve meats and fish for the winter.

Yorkstone sink with salting slab 17th century

As with many farm and household tools, the material or stone would be from a local quarry or from their own farmland. We found a beautiful example of these salting slabs in Yorkshire, England, made from Yorkstone, the local stone. We also have many antique English reclaimed sinks and troughs made from limestone, sandstone, Bathstone and cornish stone in stock.

Over the years, our clients have used these sinks in so many creative and interesting ways. From a foot bath near the beach to a lovely rustic bathroom sink. The clean, simple lines even work well with modern homes offering a nice textural surface. Here are a few examples that show just some of the possibilities!