Is a Pedestal Sink the Piece Missing from Your Bathroom?

Pedestal lavatories/bathroom sinks feature a basin (bowl) that is positioned at a comfortable standing height and rests on a pedestal base that conceals the drain and supply lines.

Pedestal sinks are made up of two parts: the sink and the pedestal (or base). With most, the weight of the bowl isn’t carried entirely by the base; a bracket ties the bowl to the wall for additional support. Just as with a wall-mounted sink, you’ll want to install blocking between wall studs to help provide that extra support.

The first pedestal sinks were made of enameled cast iron. By 1915, however, manufacturers began to fabricate them using vitreous china, a glasslike porcelain that is shaped more easily than cast iron. These glazed clay pieces bake for 40 hours in a 2,200-degree kiln to ensure that the surfaces are smooth and non-porous.

Pedestal sinks are available in styles ranging from contemporary to Victorian. In a large bathroom, they create a focal point. In a small bath, their slim profile visually enlarges the space. However, most provide little or no counter space and no storage at all below the sink. Adding built-in shelves or a closet to the room will compensate for this, and may provide even more storage than a vanity would.

Pedestal lavatories are available with round, oval, rectangular or square basins. Sink heights generally range from 28" to 35", and widths from 16" to 24 1/8".  Pedestal lavatories can be smooth, fluted, sculpted, and hand painted, with or without metallic trim. In most cases the pedestal matches the basin.

Pedestal lavatories also lend themselves to theme baths. If you've always wanted a Victorian or Edwardian styled bathroom, beginning with a pedestal sink can be a great way to bring your dream to fruition.