Kitchen Sink by the Window: Pros and Cons

We asked experts whether placing the sink by the window for a nice view is worth it and what other advantages this solution offers. We also found out about the potential difficulties you may face.

Advantages of a Sink by the Window

Beautiful View

Not everyone enjoys washing dishes, so this point can be softened with a pleasant view from the window. Of course, only if you're lucky enough to have such a view.

Natural Lighting

The work surface should always be well lit. During the day, you won't need any additional lighting sources by the window. That means you save on electricity.

Space Saving

If you place the sink by the window, you'll gain extra workspace next to it.

Design: Maria Polynskaya

Disadvantages of a Sink by the Window

Problems with Utilities

In some cases, it's not possible to move the sink to the window: you need to consider the distance to the riser and the possibility of running utilities. Sometimes, you have to raise the work surface higher and even install expensive pumping units.

And with Radiators

In standard apartments, radiators on the kitchen are usually placed under the window, so placing the sink may cause issues. Usually, radiators are hidden in a cabinet or moved, and each case has its own specifics. Our experts will explain more about this.

Design: Evgenia Lykasova

And with Windows

If the sink is not installed correctly or an inappropriate mixer is chosen, you might accidentally block the window — it simply won't open.

Also, there is a chance that water droplets will constantly splash onto the window, and you'll have to clean it regularly.

Need to Coordinate Renovation

If you move the sink along one wall, no coordination is required. But if you want to relocate it to another wall, complications may arise. We already explained how to coordinate such a renovation.

Design: Tatiana Fabyrnitskaya

Expert Opinions

Anastasia Vishnevskaya, Designer, Architect

Designs white interiors in farmhouse, loft, and Scandinavian minimalism styles; creates interior art in watercolor and tempera

In my opinion, placing the work surface by the window is an excellent solution since there's enough natural light. As someone who appreciates beauty and comfort, I'm in favor of this placement: it's much more pleasant to look at a picturesque landscape through the window than at a wall.

Placing the sink by the window is possible if the main riser is nearby and all utilities can be connected.

Design: Anastasia Vishnevskaya

If you have a common heating pipe and plan to replace radiators, you don't necessarily have to install them under the window sill. You can compensate for this by using a warm floor (this point may also require approval).

But if you can't do without radiators, they can always be installed in a wide cabinet under the sink. Then, you need to make holes in the countertop so that air can circulate freely. You can also place the radiator to the side of the window.

Design: Anastasia Vishnevskaya

Don't forget that the drain in the wall should have sufficient slope to prevent clogging. Also, choose a mixer with adjustable water pressure so that droplets don't splash onto the window. Though, if you have a deep window like in the photo, there won't be any droplet issues.

Marina Sarkisyan, Expert

Interior Designer, with a career since 2005

Customers often want to place the sink by the window — it's much more pleasant to look out at the street than at a wall. I agree with them, especially if this solution is justified and technically feasible: you have no obstacles like a balcony door and can run pipes.

There is one more small issue — radiators under the window sill, but it's easy to solve. The cabinet under the sink should be slightly narrower, and the radiator placed behind it. Then, you need to provide vents or holes in the cabinet and countertop so that air can circulate freely.

Another solution to the radiator issue is relocating the radiator (there are many design options for radiators and their placement). Or you can make cabinet doors with vents.

Design: Marina Sarkisyan

If you're afraid that droplets will splash onto the windows, treat the glass with a special product — and there won't be any problems. It's better to pay attention to how the window opens — it should function normally. Adjust the mixer's position or choose a model with adjustable height. Don't forget to provide access to the pipes and radiator controls.

Design: Marina Sarkisyan

Cover Design: Maria Polynskaya's Design Project