Undermount vs. Belfast sinks: Which is right for your kitchen style?

Choosing between an undermount sink and a Belfast sink isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about how you cook, clean, and use your kitchen day to day. Both bring a distinct look and feel to a space, but they also differ in function, cost, and installation. So, which one actually suits your home best?

TL;DR
Undermount sinks offer a seamless, modern finish ideal for minimalist kitchens, while Belfast sinks are bold, deep, and perfect for traditional or country-style designs. Your choice comes down to space, cleaning habits, and overall kitchen style.

What Is an Undermount Sink?

An undermount sink is fitted beneath the worktop, allowing the counter to flow cleanly over the edge of the bowl. This creates a streamlined look and makes it easier to sweep food scraps straight into the sink — a small but welcome luxury during daily clean-ups. You’ll often see undermounts paired with modern kitchen worktops like quartz or granite, which offer the strength and moisture resistance needed for this flush finish.

They’re especially popular in contemporary kitchen layouts, where simplicity and practicality go hand in hand. Just note: they’re typically more expensive to install, as the edges need to be perfectly sealed to avoid moisture ingress.

What Is a Belfast Sink?

Belfast sinks — also known as Butler sinks — are instantly recognisable by their chunky, rectangular ceramic shape and exposed front. Traditionally deep and wide, they were originally designed to hold large amounts of water before indoor plumbing was common. Today, they bring timeless charm and a touch of heritage to any kitchen.

Belfast sinks tend to suit farmhouse-style or shaker kitchens, where character is key. They're robust and practical for big pots and pans, though their weight means they require strong cabinetry and thoughtful planning during installation.

Which Sink Style Is Easier to Maintain?

Undermount sinks are easier to wipe clean — especially when paired with solid surface or stone worktops. There are no rims to catch crumbs or limescale, and cleaning tends to be faster all round. However, the inner join between the worktop and sink can attract grime if not sealed correctly.

Belfast sinks are low-fuss in terms of maintenance — just a good clean now and again. But their size means they can consume more water when washing up, and the high walls may occasionally lead to splashing if your tap sits too high or lacks an aerator.

What About Practical Day-to-Day Use?

If you're someone who prefers quick tidy-ups, modern fittings, and uncluttered surfaces, an undermount sink gives you that sleek efficiency. It works best with integrated appliances and minimal clutter.

Belfast sinks, on the other hand, are for people who don't mind a bit of theatre in their kitchen. They're large enough to soak roasting pans or bathe a toddler (yes, some do), but they do take up more cabinet space underneath.

If your kitchen is tight on space or you’re trying to squeeze in a dishwasher too, this may affect your decision. It’s worth thinking about how often you wash by hand versus using appliances.

Final Thoughts: What Should You Choose?

There's no wrong answer here — only the right fit for your kitchen's personality. Undermounts feel clean and modern, ideal for smooth-surfaced, streamlined spaces. Belfast sinks lean traditional, best suited to kitchens with warmth and texture.

If you're still deciding on layout and finish, our guide on custom vs off-the-shelf kitchen units might help shape your thinking — especially if you're factoring in cabinetry or budget.

Beams Renovation’s Take

We think the decision comes down to style and lifestyle. At Beams, we see homeowners fall in love with both — but for very different reasons.

If you're leaning toward a minimal, sleek design with quartz or granite surfaces, undermount sinks fit beautifully. But if you're embracing a timeless or character-led look, especially with painted shaker cabinets and open shelving, Belfast is hard to beat.

Whatever your choice, just make sure it supports the way you use your kitchen. After all, this is one of the most-used areas in your home — and it should work hard for you, not the other way around.