The pedestal
basin is probably the best known format, where the basin sits on a ceramic
pedestal which acts as a support and also a cover for the pipework. A
modern twist on this is the semi pedestal (or trap cover) which does not
extend to the floor. This offers no support so the basin wall fixings
need to be strong and the plumbing has to be cut through or into the wall.
The Abbey suite illustrated
here shows a traditionally styled pedestal basin. Note how the pedestal
is shaped to match the basin contours. This basin has two tap holes to
suit a pair of pillar taps.
The Berwick suite offers a more contemporary looking pedestal basin where the pedestal features a smooth curve to again match the basin style. This picture also shows a pair of pillar taps fitted to the two tap hole basin. Do be careful when selecting a basin that the number of tap holes matches the type of tap you wish to use, as most basins are available with one or two, or ever three, tap holes. Some can have a no tap hole option for use with a wall mounted mixer.
(Click here for information on taps)
The Retro basin is
an interesting contemporary design, with smooth uncluttered lined and
a hint of tradition in the chunky, angular forms. This illutration shows
a monoblock mixer tap on a one tap hole basin.
Step offers a very
modern design, featuring a winged basin shown with a semi pedestal. Again
this has a monoblock tap and one tap hole. You can clearly see here how
all pipework needs to be concealed as the semi pedestal only coveres the
waste trap. Semi pedestals usually have a solid base section so it is
not possible to fit them over surface mounted pipes.
This is a great angle
on the Happy D to see exactly how the semi pedestal looks.
It is worth noting
that most collections offer the choice of full or semi pedestals with
their basins. Remember if you are unable to bring your pipework up or
through the wall, the semi pedestal will not be a viable option. However
if you can get the plumbing into the wall, and you provide a strong fixing
point for the basin, a semi pedestal is very stylish. Also in a small
room the semi pedestal can make the area seem more spacious, particularly
if used with other wall hung elements.