If you have ordered standard cabinets, a 36" sink base, and haven't had your countertops installed yet, it is particularly easy to install a Kohler 3943 or an Elkay Quartz Luxe sink. Cut the top rail off the cabinet and divider if there is one, install a sink strap system, drop the sink in, and install your tops.

Plumbing is a non-issue.

This Kohler video says you can install the Kohler Whitehaven apron front sink into existing cabinetry with minimal work. Note that the Whitehaven is expensive, but worth it if your heart is set on it. You use the sink multiple times a day every day; better have one that you love. It comes in "short apron" or "tall apron" though the sink depth is the same in both. For retrofitting, you need to get the short apron.

Yes - Kohler's apron-front sinks are supposed to be able to retro-fit into an existing cabinet. They offer two apron heights. It will just be a little more work for your installer/carpenter.

As far as plumbing - shouldn't be a big deal - the drain might be off a little depending which sink you have.

"If you have ordered standard cabinets, a 36" sink base"

It is important to know the width of your sink base cabinet.

If you have a 30" wide sink cabinet, the Kohler Whitehaven short apron K-6486-0 will fit

If you have a 33" wide sink cabinet, the Kohler Whitehaven short apron K-5826-0 will fit

If you have a 36" wide sink cabinet, the Kohler Whitehaven short apron K-6488-0 will fit

We have a Whitehaven in Sea Salt with the protective grates. It drains really well and is durable. Got lucky and found ours on Amazon Warehouse for about 1/2 price so I recommend that you check there. I purchase from the Warehouse only if it is marked ’Like new‘ or ‘Very good’. My brother retrofitted their sink base with the short apron. They love it too.

It turns out I have a 42" sink base. Is it still possible to do?

Yes, however, you'll return the false drawer front ends to the apron sides:

Or have a 42" custom sink built and installed:

I guess I would use a 36" short apron front and return the false drawer ends to the apron front...right? I've been trying to read more about this project here on Houzz in order to prep my dear husband and seen lots of your work Joseph. You do great work and are so helpful to boot. Thanks! Do you think this is really something we can do? We are self-contracting and husband and dad are big DIYers. I am getting nervous because I need to order the sink and give my countertop specs and I'm worried we will plan for this and something won't work. Should I be nervous or is it really as simple as it sounds?

Joseph will give you details:) Just wanted to say I love my short apron Whitehaven. Kohler makes this sink in two apron styles - "short apron" and "tall apron". If you have a standard sink base cabinet, you need to order the "short apron" style - I think that has been said and the order numbers given, but I just wanted to make it clear. Sometimes when ordering it is in the small print on whether it is a short or tall apron - so be sure you order the correct sink. The sink is easy to install because it has a self facing apron and the cabinet does not need to be exactly scribed to the sink as in a traditional farm sink.

"Do you think this is really something we can do?"

Yes, particularly because the sink will be installed before your tops.

Thanks for the information, tips and pictures Pete! They do have that 36'' available so I'll check it out!