Chance Meeting Leads To A Custom Sink Solution

A couple of months ago, on a typical Saturday, I received a call from a local couple, Brad and Katie, asking if we were open. They were in the area, hoping to find a replacement for their faulty Grohe faucet, but had discovered that most plumbing stores were closed for the weekend. When I told them we were open, they decided to swing by our showroom. They later mentioned that out of all the businesses they searched for, we were the only one listed as open on Saturday.

I work most Saturdays from 10-4, often by myself, for this exact reason. Many of our clients, like Brad and Katie, have hectic schedules during the week, and Saturdays offer a chance to meet, either in person or via Zoom, without rushing through the process. For clients on the West Coast, our standard 4pm EST close can be tricky to coordinate around, so Saturdays give everyone an opportunity to connect at their convenience.

When Brad and Katie walked into our showroom, they were delighted to see our collection. While they originally came in for a faucet, Katie couldn't help but focus on the copper drop-in retrofit sink displayed in our kitchen island. She started telling me about her frustrations with their current corner sink—how it was positioned so far back from the edge of the countertop that she would get backaches every time she used it. She showed me photos, and it was clear that this was a much bigger problem than just a faucet replacement.

At first, I thought a simple drop-in sink replacement might do the trick, and I designed a solution that would move the sink forward to ease her discomfort. But when Katie got home and laid out the design, she realized the overhang in front of the sink was much too large for that to work. A basic drop-in replacement just wouldn’t cut it.

A week later, after brainstorming, I came up with a custom retrofit drop-in farmhouse sink that could solve all her issues. This design moved the sink just 2 inches away from Katie instead of the original 5 inches, making it much more comfortable for her to use. Not only that, but I also incorporated ledges to hold a half-sheet pan next to her cutting board, and I significantly increased the length of the bowl to maximize functionality.

Katie later shared how thrilled she was with the design, noting that reaching across the deep overhang of her previous sink had been a constant source of pain. The new design not only relieved her back strain but also added a whole new level of convenience and style to her kitchen. In her words, she never thought she could be this excited about a kitchen sink and faucet!

To complete the project, I coordinated with a trusted local company that I’ve worked with for years, Southeast Stone. Codie handled everything—from the plumbing to the electrical and even the stonework—making sure the installation was flawless.

Brad and Katie were overjoyed with the finished product, and it was a true reminder of why I do what I do. Designing sinks isn’t just about making something that looks good; it’s about solving real problems and making life in the kitchen easier and more enjoyable. 

Hi Dino,

Our sink was successfully installed and finished last evening, and it is simply wonderful. You have given our kitchen such a lift - it looks fabulous. The workability difference is superb. I can reach everything easily without having to bend and put strain on my back and shoulder! I might use some of this in my review, which will be a well earned 5-star, but I wanted to be sure and express our thanks to you directly first. You have made a genuinely happy, satisfied customer who will not hesitate to recommend Rachiele Custom Sinks. Also, thank you for the referral to Codie - he did a great job, and we are very happy with everything.

Our sincere thanks to you and your whole team!

All the Best, Katie & Brad C. Lake Mary, FL