Top Mount/Above Counter Basins

An above counter basin sits on top of the benchtop rather than in it, so the bowl becomes a feature of the vanity. Also known as a countertop basin or top mount basin, it is one of the easiest styles to install and one of the easiest ways to add shape, colour or texture to a bathroom. See the full bathroom basins range for other installation types.

Our above counter basin range

• Solid surface: the Otti London (390 x 390 x 145mm), Portofino and Noosa (585 x 385 x 110mm) in matte white, plus the Bella Vista Idra (580 x 380 x 120mm) in Latte, Neige, Pilos and Rose.
• Fluted: the Otti Archie, Kensington oval and Marlo round. See our dedicated fluted basinspage.
• Steel: the Meir Lavello round basin (380 x 110mm) in Shadow, Brushed Nickel and Champagne, designed to sit alongside Meir tapware.
• Concrete and colour: the Jada concrete basin in Warm Grey, and Nood Co. Loop, Cast, Herbert, Vesl and Tubb basins in colours from Copan Blue to Blush Pink. Browse more concrete basins.

Getting the height right

Because an above counter basin sits on the bench, the rim ends up higher than an inset or undermount bowl. Add the vanity height, benchtop thickness and basin height together. A 145mm-tall basin on a standard-height vanity can sit uncomfortably high, so many people lower the vanity or choose a shallower basin like the 110mm Noosa or Lavello.

Pairing tapware and wastes

• Tall basin mixer: mounted on the benchtop beside the bowl. The spout must clear the rim and land water near the waste. Browse basin mixers.
• Wall spout: keeps the benchtop clear and suits most above counter designs. Check the spout reach against the basin depth. See wall spouts.
• Waste: many above counter basins have no overflow and need an unslotted waste. Check the spec sheet, then choose from our bath and basin wastes.

Above counter basin or undermount?

Choose above counter if you want the basin to stand out and you are happy to clean around its base. Choose an undermount basin if you want a flush benchtop you can wipe straight into the bowl. If your vanity is shallow, a semi recessed basin is worth a look.

Talk to our team

Our New Farm showroom has basins on display beside vanities and tapware, so you can check scale, finish and tap position in person. The team works through these decisions with homeowners, builders and designers every week and can talk you through cut-outs, waste types and lead times before you order. Prefer to buy online? Delivery starts from $50, Zip Pay is available, and trade accounts are open to builders and designers. If you have a question first, get in touch and we will help you narrow it down.

Above counter basin FAQs

Is an above counter basin the same as a countertop basin?

Yes. Above counter, countertop, top mount and vessel basin all describe a basin that sits on top of the benchtop.

How high should an above counter basin be?

Aim for a comfortable rim height once the vanity, benchtop and basin are added together. If the basin is tall, lower the vanity or choose a shallower bowl.

What tap do I need for an above counter basin?

Either a tall basin mixer on the benchtop or a wall spout. Make sure the spout clears the rim and reaches the centre of the bowl.

Are above counter basins hard to clean?

The bowl itself is easy. The join between the basin and benchtop needs a regular wipe, so a neat silicone bead at installation helps.