How to choose the right Alveus kitchen sink – material, shape and size
How to choose the right Alveus kitchen sink – material, shape and size
Selecting a kitchen sink is a decision that most people underestimate – until the moment when they suffer every day with an improperly chosen sink. A sink that is too small is not enough for cooking in a family, the wrong material is difficult to keep clean, the wrong shape complicates the installation or limits movement at the sink. Alveus is a Belgian brand with a long tradition, which offers sinks in stainless steel and granite finishes, in a wide range of shapes and dimensions. In this article, we will explain step by step how to make the right decision – according to the material, shape, number of basins and dimensions of the cut-out in the countertop.
Why the choice of a sink matters more than you think
In practice, we repeatedly see the same scenario with orders: the customer comes with a ready-made kitchen line, a cut-out in the worktop and is looking for a sink that would "somehow fit". The problem is that the choice of a sink should be one of the first steps in planning a kitchen – not the last. The dimensions of the cut-out are fixed, the height of the kitchen cabinet limits the depth of the basin, the placement of the waste determines which type of trap is even possible to use.
Along with logistical problems during installation, there is also daily ergonomics. You use the sink dozens of times a day – when preparing food, washing dishes, cleaning vegetables. An unsuitable material multiplies the time spent on cleaning. An unsuitable shape complicates handling larger pots. These small details add up to a frustrating user experience for years to come.
Alveus sink materials: stainless steel vs. granite
Alveus produces sinks from two main materials. Each has its own philosophy, its own advantages and weaknesses. The choice should correspond to your cooking style, frequency of use and overall kitchen design.
Alveus stainless steel sinks
Stainless steel is a classic for kitchen sinks and Alveus processes it in high quality. They use 18/10 steel (18% chromium, 10% nickel), which ensures resistance to corrosion and food acids. The sheet thickness varies from 0.6 to 1.2 mm depending on the series – the thicker the sheet, the quieter and more durable the sink.
The surface of Alveus stainless steel sinks can be satin (fine ground, matte), polished (shiny) or structured. The satin surface is most popular in practice – scratches from utensils are less visible and it is easier to clean. The polished surface is aesthetically effective, but every drop of water leaves a trace and, if not properly polished, the sink quickly looks neglected.
A stainless steel sink is suitable for households where cooking and dishwashing are intensive, where heavy pots are used and where easy hygiene is a priority. The disadvantage is the noise from the falling water – that is why high-quality Alveus models have sound-damping pads made of bitumen or rubber glued to the bottom of the basin.
Alveus granite sinks (Heronit)
Alveus granite sinks are made from a composite called Heronit – a mixture of natural granite granulate (about 80%) and acrylic binder. The result is a material that resembles natural stone, is significantly heavier than stainless steel (a typical granite sink weighs 7–12 kg), but extremely resistant to impacts, scratches and heat.
Alveus offers granite sinks in several color versions: gray (natural stone), anthracite (dark gray), black, beige and other shades. Dark variants are popular for modern minimalist kitchens, light colors are sought after in more traditionally designed spaces.
A granite sink naturally dampens noise – thanks to the weight of the material – and the surface is more resistant to scratches from utensils than stainless steel. On the other hand, some mineral deposits and grease may become more visible on the matte granite if the sink is not regularly treated with an impregnator.
For a more detailed comparison of both materials, I recommend reading our separate article Granite vs. Stainless Steel Sink: Which is Better for Your Kitchen, where you will find specific test values and long-term practical experience.
Sink shape: single-basin, double-basin or with a draining board
The shape of the sink is a combination of two decisions: how many basins (sinks) you want to have and whether you need a draining board for dripping. These choices significantly affect the size of the cut-out you need in the worktop.
Single-basin sink
A single-basin sink is ideal when you have a dishwasher and the sink is mainly used for cleaning vegetables, rinsing pots or food preparation. The entire surface is one large basin, which you will appreciate when using large pots, whole fish or washing larger items. The size of such a sink is typically 600 × 500 mm or 780 × 500 mm – depending on the series and manufacturer.
A single-basin sink is also easier to install logistically: a smaller cut-out, less trap fittings. If you don't have a dishwasher or your dishwasher is not enough, consider a double-basin model instead.
Double-basin sink
A double-basin sink divides the surface into two basins – typically a larger and a smaller one (1.5-basin variant) or two equally sized basins. In practice, the 1.5-basin variant is more popular, where the larger basin is used for washing dishes and the smaller one for draining, thawing or food preparation.
A double-basin sink takes up more space in width – typically 800 to 1 000 mm and more. For small kitchens, this can be a problem. On the other hand, for cooking for a large family without a dishwasher, a double-basin sink is almost a necessity: in one basin you can soak the dishes, in the other you can rinse them, and the kitchen works more efficiently.
Sink with a draining board (drip tray)
Some Alveus models have an integrated tray with grooves on one or both sides of the basin – so-called drip tray or draining board. You can let the washed dishes drip directly over the sink without the need for a separate drip rack. The advantage is a cleaner work area and functionality; the disadvantage is again a larger cut-out in the countertop and overall dimensions.
If you have enough space on the worktop and you cook or wash dishes really intensively, an overhang area is a practical comfort. In small kitchens with limited space, most customers will not use it in practice as they imagined – and it is an unnecessarily occupied area.
Dimensions of the sink and the cut-out in the worktop
This is the technically most critical area of the entire selection. Each sink has an external dimension (the overall size of the sink body) and a cut-out dimension (the opening that needs to be cut into the worktop). These two values are NOT identical – they differ by the width of the rim, which typically ranges from 15 to 25 mm on each side.
When planning your kitchen, you therefore need to know:
- Free width of the cabinet under the sink – for standard 60 cm cabinets, the actual internal width is approximately 560–570 mm. An 80 cm cabinet has an internal width of around 760 mm.
- Depth of the worktop – the standard depth of a kitchen worktop is 600 mm, which limits the maximum height of the basin (depth of the sink) – because there must be space under the sink for the trap and possibly a shut-off valve.
- Depth of the basin – ranges from 150 to 220 mm. A deeper basin is more ergonomic (less splashing), but requires a taller lower cabinet or a compact trap.
If you are unsure how to measure your cut-out or cabinet correctly, read our detailed guide What sink size do I need for my kitchen line – how to measure correctly, where you will find a step-by-step procedure with illustrations.
Examples of dimensions of specific Alveus models
To give you a better idea, we provide a few examples from the real offer. The model SET ALVEUS INTERMEZZO 130/81 + BATÉRIE TONIA Chrom is a large two-basin sink with an overhang area, intended for more spacious kitchens. The numbers in the name – 130/81 – correspond to the width and depth of the sink in centimeters, i.e., 1300 × 810 mm of the overall sink dimensions. The cut-out in the worktop will accordingly be smaller by the rim. This set is suitable for families where cooking is really intensive and where they can afford a kitchen cabinet of at least 120–130 cm in width.
On the opposite end of the spectrum stands the more compact model SET ALVEUS INTERMEZZO 30/91 + BATÉRIE DELOS 91 – a smaller sink with the number 30, which corresponds to 300 mm in width, suitable for corners or as a second sink in the kitchen, e.g., in an island or a breakfast bar. It is a solution for situations where you do not have enough space, but you still want to have a small drip tray near the cooking area.
For those looking for a modern and striking granite sink in black, the interesting option is ATROX 50 černý 91 + pop up sifon 790×500×200 mm. The dimensions 790 × 500 mm with a basin depth of 200 mm speak of a generous, deep basin that can hold large pots without splashing. The pop-up siphon allows opening the waste without bending – practical when the sink is full of water.
Mounting method: overmount, undermount or built-in sink
Alveus offers sinks for various mounting methods, which directly affect aesthetics and installation requirements.
Overmount sink (topmount)
The most common type – the sink sits on the worktop, with its edges (rims) covering the cut-out. The installation is simple and does not require special tools or precise edge processing of the cut-out. The disadvantage is that dirt and moisture can accumulate on the rims, which requires regular cleaning of the sealing compound or silicone around the perimeter.
Undermount sink (undermount / built-in)
This type is mounted from below the worktop – the entire basin is below the level of the worktop and its surface flows smoothly all the way to the edge of the cut-out. The result is aesthetically exceptionally clean – no rims, no joints, easy to sweep crumbs directly into the sink. However, the condition is that the worktop must be made of a material that can withstand moisture at the edges of the cut-out (stone, ceramic, or high-quality lacquered MDF with waterproof treatment). This mounting is more demanding and requires precise cutting and edge processing of the worktop.
Flush or Slim-rim variants
Some Alveus models have minimal edges, almost blending with the level of the countertop. They are aesthetically close to undermount installation, but technically they are mounted similarly to flush-mounted sinks – thus they are less demanding, yet visually attractive.
For more information on the installation process itself, see the guide Installation of Alveus kitchen sink – step by step, where the work with silicone and the fastening of the sink under the countertop is also described.
Choosing a faucet for the sink – integrated sets or separate selection
The number and placement of holes for the faucet is another important dimension you must consider before purchasing. Alveus sinks can have 0, 1, or 2 holes for the faucet and accessories (e.g., soap dispenser). The holes have a diameter of 35 mm and their placement is fixed – it cannot be easily changed on a granite sink (it can be drilled later on a stainless steel sink).
An advantage of ordering a complete set sink + faucet is guaranteed compatibility. For example, the SET ALVEUS CADIT 40/55 + BATÉRIE RUTA CHROM is a compact set with a 40/55 category sink (400 × 550 mm) – i.e., a narrow, deep single-bowl sink – and a classic chrome faucet. This set is an excellent solution for small apartments where the kitchen line has no more than 3–4 cabinets, or for a secondary sink in a dressing room or garage kitchen.
If you want to understand why it is worth buying a set and when it is more advantageous to choose the sink and faucet separately, read our article Sink + faucet sets Alveus – is it worth buying a complete set or separately. Detailed information on choosing a faucet in terms of connection and outlet height can be found in the article Faucets for Alveus sinks – how to choose the right type and connection.
Drain and trap – what to resolve before buying a sink
The diameter of the Alveus sink drain is standard 90 mm (3.5 inches), which is compatible with standard traps available on the Slovak market. Some models, however, offer a Pop-up drain – such as the model ATROX 50 černý 91 + pop up sifon, where the pop-up trap is part of the package. The pop-up system allows opening and closing the plug simply by pressing the drain cover with a finger – without the need to reach into the water.
With a two-bowl sink, you must account for two drains and either two traps or one double trap, or a connected system. The available height in the cabinet under the sink is key here: if you have only 350 mm height (typical for low cabinets), you must choose a flat trap with a horizontal drain. More on this topic can be found in the article Trap and drain for kitchen sink – installation and common mistakes.
Practical scenarios from everyday customer practice
Nothing explains a situation better than concrete examples from practice. Here are several typical customer situations we encounter:
Scenario 1: A family with three children, no dishwasher, cooking every day
This family needs maximum capacity. The best choice is a large two-bowl sink of at least 100 cm width, ideally with a granite surface for durability and quietness. The model INTERMEZZO 130/81 is ideal for such a family – the large basin can accommodate dishwashing of pots, the smaller basin serves as a drain or for soaking dishes. The faucet should have a sufficiently long spout to reach both basins.
Scenario 2: A single person with a dishwasher, small 40 m² apartment
Space is a luxury here. The kitchen line is 240 cm, most of which is taken by the refrigerator and stove. Only a 45–50 cm cabinet remains for the sink. A single-bowl sink with a maximum width of 400 mm is the only reasonable choice. The set CADIT 40/55 with the Ruta Chrom faucet fits this dimension perfectly and provides a functional, aesthetically pleasing sink without taking up an unreasonable portion of the work surface.
Scenario 3: Renovation of an old kitchen – preserving the cutout
The customer has an old sink of 860 × 500 mm and wants to replace it without further work on the countertop. It is crucial to find a new sink with the same or larger external dimensions (to cover the old cutout), with a minimum external dimension of at least 860 × 500 mm. The granite ATROX 50 with an external dimension of 790 × 500 mm may not fit in this case if the original cutout was over 800 mm – this must always be verified before ordering.
Scenario 4: A kitchenette in an office space
A semi-commercial kitchen for 20 employees needs a durable stainless steel sink with a deep basin (min. 180 mm) and ideally with the possibility of connecting hot water. Stainless steel is the only option – easily sterilizable, without surface treatments, hygiene first. The model ZOOM 10 NAT (ZOOM 10 NAT) made of stainless steel is a straightforward and functional model without unnecessary features, suitable for semi-commercial use.
Cleaning and maintenance – how material choice affects years of use
Choosing the material is not just an aesthetic decision – it directly affects the time spent on maintenance. A stainless steel sink requires regular polishing and removal of limescale, especially in areas with hard water (most of Slovakia). For this, common limescale removers (citric or acetic acid in low concentration) and a microfiber cloth are sufficient.
A granite sink Heronit is more resistant to mechanical damage, but its matte surface requires regular application of impregnation oil (special Alveus Heronit Care oil) – typically once every 3–6 months. Without this care, the surface gradually fades and loses its hydrophobic properties. Colored granite sinks (black, anthracite) are somewhat more prone to visible limescale deposits – which is an optical contrast that surprises many.
A detailed guide to cleaning can be found in the article How to clean and maintain Alveus granite or stainless steel sink.
Approximate comparison: which sink for whom
| Situation | Recommended type | Material | Approximate dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small apartment, dishwasher available | 1-bowl | Stainless steel or granite | 400–600 × 500 mm |
| Family of 4+, no dishwasher | 2-bowl or 1.5-bowl | Granite (durability) | 900–1300 × 500 mm |
| Modern kitchen, design first | 1-bowl undermount | Black/antracite granite | 600–800 × 500 mm |
| Office kitchen / semi-commercial | 1-bowl deep | Stainless steel (hygiene) | 600–800 × 500 mm, depth 200 mm |
| Renovation, preserving the cutout | According to the existing cutout | Stainless steel or granite | Always verify before ordering! |
Common mistakes when choosing a sink – what to watch out for
Over the years we have seen a few mistakes that repeat often enough to warn you about them:
- Measuring the cutout and the sink's outer dimensions. A customer measures the old cutout and orders a sink with the same outer dimensions. However, the new sink may not cover the cutout if the rim is differently dimensioned. Always verify the cutout dimensions as well, not just the outer dimensions.
- Underestimating the depth of the bowl. A deep bowl (200 mm) sounds tempting, but if you have only 350 mm of space under the sink, the trap will fit only with difficulty and the connection to the drain will be a combination of compromises.
- Choosing white or beige granite for an intensively used kitchen. Light granite sinks look great in the showroom, but in practice, with hard water and daily vegetable washing, they quickly lose their fresh look and require significantly more care than dark variants.
- Ignoring the position of the drain in the cabinet. If the drain pipe in the wall is located on a specific side, the trap must be compatible with this placement. Some sink models have a fixed drain position – either right or left – which can be problematic with certain cabinet layouts.
- Purchasing a sink without considering the faucet. If the worktop has little space behind the sink (e.g., the sink is almost against the wall), you must use a low-profile faucet or plumbing fixtures mounted directly into the sink – not on the wall. This needs to be planned as a whole, not separately.
Most frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between the INTERMEZZO and CADIT models in the Alveus range?
INTERMEZZO is a series focused on larger, more generously sized sinks with a minimalist design and gently rounded bowl edges. CADIT is a more compact series for smaller spaces, with steeper bowl walls, suitable for 40–60 cm cabinets. Both series are available in granite and stainless steel finishes, differing mainly in dimensions and bowl profiles.
Can I drill an additional hole for a faucet in an Alveus granite sink myself?
No, drilling an additional hole in the Alveus granite sink Heronit at home is not recommended and usually leads to cracks. Granite composite is hard and brittle – diamond drilling with water cooling and an experienced hand is required. If you need an additional hole (e.g., for a soap dispenser), order a model with the appropriate number of holes right away or leave the drilling to professionals.
How long will an Alveus Heronit granite sink last with regular use?
With proper cleaning and regular impregnation (about 2 times a year), an Alveus Heronit granite sink will last 15–25 years without visible deterioration. The material is very resistant to permanent damage and won't dent even when a heavy pot drops. The most common issue is not mechanical damage, but neglecting impregnation and subsequent staining from greasy residues or red wine – this can be restored with treatment and polishing.
Is the Alveus stainless steel sink resistant to food acids (lemon, vinegar)?
The 18/10 steel used in Alveus sinks is resistant to common food acids in short-term contact. Problems arise when you leave a lemon half or a strong vinegar solution in the sink for a long time – prolonged contact can cause dull stains. In regular cooking and washing, the stainless steel is completely safe and does not react harmfully to common kitchen acids.
What is the difference between a pop-up drain and a classic stopper drain?
A classic drain has a mechanical stopper – either rubber or stainless steel chain. A pop-up system (as in the model ATROX 50 black 91) works on the principle of a button: one press opens the drain cover, the second closes it. It is more hygienic and convenient, especially when the sink is full of water and you don't want to get your whole hand wet. A pop-up requires slightly more careful maintenance (cleaning the mechanism occasionally), but in practice, it is a very reliable system.
Is it worth investing in a higher-priced Alveus sink?
Generally yes – and for a simple reason: a sink is in the kitchen for decades. The difference between a cheap sink and a mid-range quality Alveus model is about 50–100 € at purchase. In terms of years of use, this is a negligible amount, but in daily comfort (quieter sink, more durable surface, more precise processing, better drain), the difference is noticeable every day. A cheap sink is only worth it for a temporary solution or rental.
Conclusion: decide systematically, not impulsively
Choosing the right Alveus sink is not rocket science, but it does require a bit of systematic thinking. Start with the practical side: measure the available space, determine the cutout and the height under the sink. Then consider the material based on how much time you are willing to spend on maintenance. Only then deal with aesthetics – color, shape, design. Most well-chosen purchases are made in this order.
If you are still unsure, take a look at the full range of sinks and sets on the page Alveus at atria.sk or check out other topics in the Knowledge Center – for example, Common questions about Alveus sinks and faucets or Common problems and faults with kitchen sinks – causes and solutions. A well-chosen sink will serve you happily for twenty years – it's worth spending fifteen minutes of attention before buying.
Do you have a question about this topic?
Can't decide or are you dealing with a specific situation in your household? Write to us – we are happy to help.