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When Kim Kardashian revealed her minimalist, “sinkless” bathroom sink during a Vogue interview, it set the internet ablaze. Viewers were stunned by the ultra-flat concrete design and puzzled by one major question: where does the water go?
The viral buzz even pushed Kardashian to explain the secret—a subtle slope and hidden slot drain. While many marveled at the design, others balked at the reported $30,000 price tag. That’s where this DIY creator stepped in. In a hands-on, three-day build, he replicated the iconic sink using stretch fabric, sculpted clay, and concrete—proving that high-end design doesn’t have to break the bank.
🧰 Key Takeaways
- Kim’s viral sink works via a hidden slope and slot drain, but it wasn’t cheap—costing over $30,000 and reportedly taking 8 prototypes to perfect.
- The DIY builder recreated the sink in just three days, using simple materials like stretch fabric, sculpted clay, and melamine.
- The replica was installed in an Airbnb, showing how custom concrete design can be both functional and beautiful.
- Total materials cost was under $500, highlighting the massive markup for designer custom pieces.
- The final sink worked perfectly, achieving the signature invisible drain effect while saving tens of thousands of dollars.
🎬 Recreating a Viral Sink from Scratch
The journey began with a fan’s request: help design concrete sinks for an Airbnb project. The opportunity was perfect to finally tackle a project inspired by Kim Kardashian’s infamous bathroom. Partnering with Fishstone Concrete in Chicago and contractor Chris Grunwald, the team set out to replicate the mysterious sink.
The key to mimicking Kim’s invisible drain? Stretch form fabric and a carefully sculpted clay mold beneath it. With help from Tom Fisher and his sculptor wife Carrie, they shaped symmetrical clay basins, then stretched waterproof fabric over them to form the mold.
⚠️ A Quick Reminder on Safety
During the build, Chris had a close call with a circular saw—an important reminder that power tool safety matters, even for experienced builders. Fortunately, no injuries occurred, and the project moved forward.
🛠 How It Came Together
- Day 1: Build the form using melamine and flexible fabric, sculpt the clay to create a gradual slope, and install the slot drain system.
- Day 2: Mix and spray the face coat of concrete, followed by a backer coat reinforced with glass fibers.
- Day 3: Demold the sink, grind the edges, drill the faucet hole, and apply a concrete sealer (Fishstone’s U-Seal) for a durable finish.
Despite initial doubts about whether the stretch fabric could support the weight of concrete without flattening the slope, the build went off without a hitch. The finished product had the exact look the team wanted—with a slot drain so discreet it appeared invisible.
🏡 The Final Reveal: An Airbnb Showpiece
Installed in a high-end Airbnb just outside Chicago, the DIY sink is a showstopper. It blends seamlessly into the bathroom’s minimalist aesthetic and performs flawlessly—passing the full-pressure handwashing test with flying colors.
In addition to the viral sink, Chris made a second concrete basin on his own, showing how accessible this method can be for skilled DIYers.
💸 Was Kim K’s Sink Worth $30,000?
Although Kardashian’s sink reportedly cost $30,000, the creator believes a realistic custom price range would be $5,000–$20,000, depending on the number of prototypes, labor, and installation.
Still, for just $500 in materials and a few days of work, this version proves that a stunning design can be achieved on a budget—no celebrity markup required.
🧳 Want to See It In Person?
The custom sink now lives in a beautiful Airbnb surrounded by forest and lake views—just 90 minutes from Chicago. With modern finishes, a cedar sauna, and a full game room, it’s the perfect weekend retreat. Links are provided in the video to book your stay.
Final Thoughts
What started as a viral curiosity became an inspiring DIY project. The takeaway? Designer looks don’t need designer budgets. With creativity, community, and a little concrete, you can bring luxury design to life—without spending like a Kardashian.