The rule of thumb in most American kitchen remodeling projects is undermount stainless steel sinks. Now Duravit, a European manufacturer, provides a ceramic kitchen sink alternative in several syles that will add a wow factor to your kitchen remodeling project.

Duravit has made it's mark in upscale bathroom sink design and has a long history of collaboration with geat designers. Duravit's Stark-K kitchen sink is a collaboratioon between product designer Philippe Starck and the company. As shown below the design is simple but elegant. We like the look.

It's also a clear alternative to stainless steel sinks, however, there are some drawbacks. We are partial to single bowl sinks, because we are serious cooks. That typically means having to fill, rinse and wash large pots and pans. The Stark-K single bowl sink at first glance looks large, but the actual bowl size of the the Starck-K #751290 is 30"L x 12"W and 8.27" deep. This is nothing to write home about. The overall platform of the sink with the rim is 34.25"L x 18.9"W. It comes in white, pergamon, anthracite matte, and chestnut.

The other option is the Stark K #751090 shown below. It has one bowl and a drainboard. It's overall size is the same as has the overall size of the single bowl model. However, the one bowl is 13.29"L x 12.13"W x 8.27"D. This ktichen sink may be good for an apartment or condo where the emphasis is on looks rather than cooking. If you cook and you just have to have a wow factor in your kitchen, then go for the single bowl Starck-K #751290. Also note that there are undermount and flush mount models so ask your dealer.

Also plan on spending some good money for a kitchen faucet. The elevated faucets shown in th photos complete the look and seem to be a must.

Practical Matters
The Starck-K kitchen sinks are definitely different and reflect new design thanks to the genius of Philippe Starck, who is known for new design. What makes the sink different is the raised rim around the bowl of the sink. The rim protrudes about 1.77 inches. In our opinion, there lies the problem. We love the design, but if you are not careful with heavy pots, pans, and casserole pans and dishes, you may crack the ceramic rim. This is especially true if you are filling a pot with water and lifting it out of the sink. Klunk! Oh no, the rim is chipped. Tears, cuss words, to follow. Take a closer look at the Starck-K kitchen sink rim.

Duravit seemed to have recognized this possibility. They developed their own manufacturing method for its kitchen ceramic sink to ensure its endurance. Instead of the fine fireclay that is often used for standard kitchen sinks, Duravit employs a special mass to manufacture its ceramic, which results in higher impact resistance. Duravit claims that its initial tests confirm the material’s high quality and make it ideal for use in the kitchen. See the Starck-K Catalogue [PDF] for details. While this is reassuring, we have seen at least one comment from an owner who now has a chip in the rim.

Is the Starck-K for everyone?
Not really. The suggested retail price of the the Starck-K #751290 and #751090 is $2,995 and $1,625. You are paying for a Philippe Starck design and of course this is why the cost is high. If price is no object and you don't cook or cook very little, then either sink will work very well and impress your friends.

If you are a serious gourmet cook, we think that a stainless steel sink is still the way to go. Sure it's an ugly duckling compared to the Starck-K, but at least you won't have to worry about chipping that sink rim and can enjoy yourself when you are cooking.

Where to see it
Duravit has opend a showroom in New York City. There are also other retailers who carry the line throughout the United States.