skip to main content

Pics of outlets near sink/in backsplash please!

13 years ago

Hi-

I just found that that MA code requires outlets 24 inches on either side of the sink. I have windows above my sink and only about four or five inches of "wall" between the counters and the windows. I haven't decided if I'm putting in a granite backsplash there or a tile backsplash but now it seems I have to have sideways outlets. I can't imagine I'll like the look of interrupting the backsplash but I'm hoping someone has pics to share of their solution? Or that can show me it really looks ok?? Thanks!!

Lara

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (10)

kitchenaddict
13 years ago
Hi Lara..

I have more wall space than you for the outlets. But here is a picture of 2 outlets to show you that even though they "interrupt", they don't really stand out too much.

KA:)
friedajune
13 years ago
Lara - there are a few ways you could make your required outlets less obtrusive. What I did is (a) have them installed horizontally, and (b) install them as low as my local Code would allow, which was 6" from countertop to center of receptacle. The 6" is actually pretty low. That way, the outlets can be easily hidden by the coffee maker, paper towel holder, toaster, tea pot, etc. which I have on my counter anyway, so it's nice they can do double duty.

Some people have Plugmold (do a search on this forum for more discussion), which install under your upper cabinets, which means your outlets are completely hidden. The downside, and the reason why I opted not to install plugmold, is it means you will have your plug wires from your coffee maker, toaster, or whatever, dangling down. If you do not plan to have anything plugged in by your sink, then plugmold may be a solution for you.

The COOLEST solution is what Cloudswift did, which is to find a company that matches your outlets to your backsplash. She did a granite backspash, and the way her outlets and switches blend is amazing. I will link the thread.

Here is a link that might be useful: Thread about Cloudswift's Outlet Covers
Related Discussions
Pics of marble in baths (particularly backsplashes) please?
Q
Comments (3)
LOL mn I thought that was your bathroom :) It's gorgeous! This is a roughout of my vanity areas. I'm thinking of putting marble inside the framed in area behind my sink (bigger vanity) and taking it to the top cabinet in DH's vanity as well. Actually his would go a bit behind his cabinet even because we have a funky wall there that sticks out 1 1/4 inch for the top 9 inches (kind of a soffit type thing). I was going to hide it with cabinet..but I'm thinking marble going up behind the cabinet would look great as well. Then I'd have to think about what to do on his left hand side which is a wall..perhaps a little backsplash with a bit of curving to match the oge edge on the counters... I'd have to hang the mirrors from the marble... I think I have to go home and measure it all out. I called the marble folks and they will hold a second slab for me so I can decide when I get home (DS is going to the hospital in Seattle for a week). By the way...the croc comes in black, brown and a gorgeous ivory...and it was cheap really (ok relatively considering every thing else I purchased LOL) $12.50 sq ft with shipping (which is quite high here).
...See More
Please help w/backsplash! PICS!!
Q
Comments (7)
ANOTHER QUESTION ABOUT OTHER BATHS: I've been focusing on the master bath so much that I've neglected the other baths. For the other baths, we will have the same faux porcelain tile on the floor (straight set) and in the tub/shower (straight set). There will be shower curtains so no glass. Same cabinets and countertop as above. I was just going to do the standard 4 inch granite backsplash, but now I'm wondering if I should do something different. BUT I want it to be low maintenance and inexpensive. Keep in mind one of the baths is a kids bath and will have a lot of use. This is what I've considered so far: 2x2 tumbled travertine with matching pencil liner (but will require maintenance and probably expensive): [[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/bathrooms-traditional-bathroom-dallas-phvw-vp~124576) [traditional bathroom design[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional-bathroom-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_712~s_2107) by dallas general contractor Hatfield Builders & Remodelers Granite backsplash with curved edges: [[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/finley-traditional-bathroom-san-francisco-phvw-vp~141701) [traditional bathroom design[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional-bathroom-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_712~s_2107) by san francisco kitchen and bath The Mirror Gallery, Kitchen and Bathroom Design OR taking the floor tile and cutting into 4x12 with some kind of matching liner. I've also considered just doing the standard 4 inch granite backsplash and then stepping it up with a really nice mirror. WHAT DO YOU THINK? ANY SUGGESTIONS?
...See More
BackSplash Choices, long story, lots of pics!
Q
Comments (14)
Oh my -- do you have to pick so theoretically? That is, can you get much of the other stuff up and running so that you can see the context a little better, set the tiles up against the counter with the floor in sight and choose *then*? ~one who's expert at delaying choices as long as possible. Speaking of which, it's pulls-time....
...See More
Light switch placement near sink/backsplash
Q
Comments (1)
I'm with you on wanting the least amount of clutter in the backsplash area as possible. I think many people do just put them on the wall...mostly because that's "where everybody puts them." But I think you could have them both cabinet mounted maybe. I would talk with your electrician about it.
...See More
Danahills
13 years ago
Here are 2 outlets on one side of my sink. I have the same on the other side.

{{!gwi}}
nhbaskets
13 years ago
We are in NH and have the same code requirement for outlets as you mentioned for MA. I thought about having outlets that would "disappear" in the granite backsplash, but decided I wanted the same outlet covers throughout the entire kitchen, so we went with stainless steel Lutron outlets. Sorry I don't have a better pictures.
paintergirl94
13 years ago
If you know a faux painter or decorative artist, they can paint your outlets to match your granite.
I do this for a lot of my customers.
lari-girl
Original Author
13 years ago
I do feel better seeing some options and agree that if it's a light tile/backsplash it really stand out. I do like the idea of nhbaskets making match the stainless. Thanks everyone!
Buehl
13 years ago
And then there are Mocketts or Plugmold - both of which are unobtrusive and do not interrupt a backsplash.

My Mocketts (so I also could meet Code):

Mocketts up...

Mocketts down...

Closeup...

My angled Plugmold (on cooktop side of kitchen):

Closeup...

It's under these cabinets...
cbug
13 years ago
Buehl;

You and your kitchen gadgets ROCK!
Your advice rocks too!
Buehl
13 years ago
LOL Cbug! Thanks! I have to admit, though, that I found out about both of these from right here on the Kitchens Forum!
sabjimata
13 years ago
Buehl--I never saw your sink in any of the photos you've posted...love the window/view!

Jstell--is your backsplash copper? It looks really good. Love your oak cabinets. There is something so appealing to me about *nice* oak cabs. How old are they?

Related Stories

DECORATING GUIDES 25 Design Trends Coming to Homes Near You in 2016

By Mitchell Parker

From black stainless steel appliances to outdoor fabrics used indoors, these design ideas will be gaining steam in the new year

GREAT HOME PROJECTS Power to the People: Outlets Right Where You Want Them

By Mitchell Parker

No more crawling and craning. With outlets in furniture, drawers and cabinets, access to power has never been easier

KITCHEN DESIGN 9 Ideas Coming to a Kitchen Near You

By Pangaea Interior Design, Portland, OR

2012 kitchen updates: Tall, solid-surface backsplashes, smarter storage, handy task stations and sheen instead of shine

KITCHEN COUNTERTOPS Kitchen Counters: Concrete, the Nearly Indestructible Option

By Ivon Street Studio

Infinitely customizable and with an amazingly long life span, concrete countertops are an excellent option for any kitchen

BATHROOM DESIGN Upload of the Day: A Mini Fridge in the Master Bathroom? Yes, Please!

By Mitchell Parker

Talk about convenience. Better yet, get it yourself after being inspired by this Texas bath

ARCHITECTURE Design Workshop: Just a Sliver (of Window), Please

By Eric Reinholdt, Architect

Set the right mood, focus a view or highlight architecture with long, narrow windows sited just so on a wall

BATHROOM DESIGN White Toilet, Black Lid: Trending in a Bathroom Near You

By Becky Harris

Contrast is king with this look for the bath — and it works with any style you can think of

Highlights From the 2012 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show

By Ellen Wigginton

Innovations in sinks, outlets and surface materials for kitchens and baths shone at this year's show

KITCHEN DESIGN Is a Kitchen Corner Sink Right for You?

By Lisa Frederick

We cover all the angles of the kitchen corner, from savvy storage to traffic issues, so you can make a smart decision about your sink

KITCHEN DESIGN 10 Gorgeous Backsplash Alternatives to Subway Tile

By Vanessa Brunner

Artistic installations, back-painted glass and pivoting windows prove there are backsplash possibilities beyond the platform

Sponsored

More Discussions

kitchen countertops

2

Need help with kitchen remodel

1

Kitchen remodel in my future

9

contractor chooses kitchen

13

Two tier drawer in 3 stack

11