Sink Base Units Explained: Which Size Fits Your Kitchen Best?

3 min reading time

How to Choose the Right Sink Unit Size (800, 1000 & 1200mm) and Fit Your Worktop

When planning a kitchen, the sink area is one of the most important spots. It’s where you prepare food, wash dishes, and tidy up — so the unit and worktop you choose need to be practical and well-fitted. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to pick the right sink unit size and how to cut your worktop to fit.

Sink Unit Sizes: 800mm, 1000mm, and 1200mm

Our sink units come in three widths: 800mm, 1000mm and 1200mm. Each size has its advantages, and the right one for you depends on your kitchen layout and how you use the space.

800mm Sink Unit

Compact and practical, this size is ideal for smaller kitchens or utility rooms. It fits a standard single-bowl sink without taking up too much space, leaving more worktop on either side.

Best for: small kitchens, flats, or rooms where space is limited.

1000mm Sink Unit

A versatile middle option. A 1000mm unit can take a larger single-bowl sink or even some 1.5 bowl sinks, depending on the style. You’ll also get more cupboard space underneath for cleaning supplies or a small bin.

Best for: medium-sized kitchens and family homes.

1200mm Sink Unit

The largest choice, giving you room for a double-bowl sink and extra under-sink storage. It looks well-balanced in spacious kitchens and works well if the sink is the main working hub.

Best for: large kitchens, open-plan layouts, and busy households.

Worktops: Measuring and Cutting to Fit

We supply worktops in sizes 800 x 600mm, 1000 x 600mm, 1200 x 600mm. These are designed to cover the units but will usually need cutting to fit your exact layout. Here are some key tips.

Measure Carefully

Measure the cabinet carcass, not just the room dimensions.
Leave a small overhang at the front — usually 20–30mm — so doors don’t stick out past the worktop.
Check the wall for straightness. Many walls aren’t perfectly square, so take measurements in more than one place.

Mark Before You Cut

Apply masking tape over the area where you’ll cut to reduce chipping.
Use a pencil and straight edge to mark the line clearly.
Always double-check your measurements before cutting.

Cutting the Worktop

Use a circular saw with a fine-tooth blade for straight cuts. Cut with the finished side facing down.
For sink or hob cut-outs, drill a starter hole and then use a jigsaw to follow the template.
Make sure the worktop is fully supported while cutting to avoid splintering.

Finishing Touches

Seal all exposed edges, especially around the sink cut-out, with silicone or sealant to prevent water damage.
Fit edging strips firmly to protect the raw edges.
Leave at least 50mm of material between a cut-out and the edge of the worktop to keep it strong.

Final Tip

If you’re confident with tools, fitting the worktop yourself can save money — but a professional fitter is a wise choice if you’re unsure. A precise fit makes a big difference to how your kitchen looks and lasts.

👉 With the right sink unit size and a properly fitted worktop, you’ll have a kitchen that works smoothly day after day, no matter how big or small your space.