It’s safe to say that the kitchen sink hadn’t had its true moment in the spotlight until the past decade, when deep, farmhouse sinks—otherwise known as apron sinks—became all the rage for renovators. (Admittedly, the trend originated in the 17th century, but it took a couple decades for it to come back en vogue). The exposed front of the sinks makes them a standout feature of a kitchen counter, a highlighted element instead of a mere function-forward plumbing fixture.

It would be a misconception, however, to think that farmhouse kitchen sinks only have a place in decidedly rustic interiors. Sure, they can easily accompany typical farmhouse features like shiplap and barn doors, but they’re a surprisingly versatile element, no matter what your design taste may be.

You can think of the farmhouse kitchen sink as a fixture that will lend a little bit of drama to your countertop, whether the rest of your space skews modern, boho, or any other style. Here are a few examples that show just these sinks in their not-so-rustic glory.

Bold Brass

A classic farmhouse sink is made from white porcelain—but that doesn’t mean you have to go traditional. In this California vacation rental designed by Claire Thomas, a brass sink plays into the warm wood fronts of the cabinets and the ranch-style beams in the space. The deep hue of the fixture looks especially dynamic against the contrasting white countertops.  

Sleek and Clean

You can never go wrong with a neutral-hued kitchen, and this space by interior designer Gina Gutierrez and her husband Max Maloney is a perfect example of the beauty of simplicity. Semihandmade Shaker cabinet fronts painted in Benjamin Moore’s Coventry Gray play up the grey veins of the marble countertops, and a white farmhouse sink adds both form and function to the kitchen island. The couple decided to splurge on Schoolhouse hardware and a Newport Brass faucet and soap dispenser, treating the brass elements “like jewelry on the design.”

Modern Eclectic

The beauty is in the details of this kitchen by Brooke Christen: Counter-to-ceiling tiles with black grout, gold sconces, and herringbone floors all make the neutral-toned space feel exciting and dynamic. A long farmhouse sink provides plenty of room for plant-watering and dishwashing, in addition to mirroring the length of the window above it.

Grey and Gold

You can even make a farmhouse sink work in more limited square footage. The sink in this space by AM Singer Design is smaller than a more typical farmhouse option, but it looks sleek against the Semihandmade Shaker cabinet fronts painted in Benjamin Moore Silver Dollar. Counter-to-ceiling white zellige tiles play up the cool tones of the cabinets, while gold hardware from Cedar & Moss brings in a warm contrast.

Deep Blue

Benjamin Moore’s Naragansett Green makes a bold impact in this kitchen designed by Tyler and Jessica Marés of Renovate108. White subway tiled walls and marble countertops lend a bright contrast to the deep hue, as does a large white farmhouse sink. 

Contemporary Cool

For an idea that’s truly fresh, look no further than Yellow Brick Home. In this kitchen, a matte black apron sink is a cool, unexpected element, especially when paired with natural wood-tone slab cabinet fronts. Ultra-simple white cabinetry up provides the perfect balance in this eye-catching space. The cherry on top? A sweet yellow flush mount light just above.